On Saturday August 5th, the SMMC hosted an appreciation celebration event for their heroes, current and former oncology patients. The theme of the event was an ‘Appreciation Celebration; Surviving the Odds’.
The purpose of this celebration was to commemorate their patients and all that they have overcome. A small team of the Outpatient department felt a great need to celebrate their patients by involving all those that they have helped along the journey. The preparations for this event begun earlier in the year, with the initial idea brought forth almost two years previously.
Coincidentally, this year marks 20 years since the hospital first started oncology treatments for patients in need. Supervisor Nurse Cijntje recalls, “We started with our first patients in a very small room where there are now the surgeons’ offices. Over the years the chemotherapy services provided at the hospital has expanded tremendously. We have survivors who have celebrated over ten years and many others who have success stories to be celebrated”.
The celebration featured a full day of events including a bus tour, make overs, and a dinner with entertainment at the Little Well Oasis. Fish da Boss entertained guests with an eventful performance showcasing some of his winning calypso songs. Cecil Griffith and company gave beautiful renditions on the saxophone. Guests were addressed by several speakers amongst which were specialists Dr. Holiday and Dr. Wassenaar who have worked closely with survivors of cancer. Some of the heroes shared their experiences with the audience, dignitaries, and staff members of the hospital.
Honorable Minister of Health Emil Lee and President of Parliament Sarah Wescott-Williams congratulated the heroes for surviving the odds and also shared their heartfelt gratitude to SMMC for organizing such an event.
Manager Patient Care; Antonio Pantophlet extends a heartfelt thank you to the organizing staff of the outpatient department and everyone that has contributed in any way to help make the event a success. The event’s realization and success stems from all of the lives touched throughout the 20 years of chemotherapy services at the SMMC. A very special thank you is extended on behalf of Management and staff to all of the patients who throughout the years have chosen the SMMC to be their treatment center, and trusting staff with the provision of quality care. With the success of this event and the request of many patients a future celebration may be in the works.
The SMMC would like to thank our sponsors of this event: Ace Mega Store, Amsterdam Cheese Shop, All in one place dollar store, Beautyliscious, Cabana Restaurant, Caribbean liquor and tobacco, Carl’s and Sons, Chesterfield, NAGICO, NV. GEBE, Oysterbay Beach Resort, Sunny Food, UTS (make-up specialist Ms. Christine), Windward Island Bank, Little Well Oasis, Quality Catering Service and Bell Bus Tours.