October is Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence are two issues that predominately affect women. While both Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence can happen to men, they are far more likely to happen to women. Globally one (1) in eight (8) women are affected by breast cancer, while one (1) in four (4) women are affected by domestic violence.

Neither issue involves contagious diseases or “anything catching” but, traditionally, they were both largely kept secret in our societies. While today there is more awareness and we are learning to be more open, especially with Breast Cancer, Domestic Violence still seems to be one of the “things that must not be spoken of.”
When either Breast Cancer or Domestic Violence strikes, our entire family circles, friends and communities are affected. So this month we take this time to mourn those who have died because of domestic violence or breast cancer, to celebrate those who have survived, and to reach out to the community to build awareness.

We encourage you to take the time to reach out to someone who is struggling with domestic violence or breast cancer. In their need for support, be a friend indeed.
Make a phone call just to say hello, or ask what you can do to help: visit, send a card or an email, or a hand-written note; cook lunch or help with the ironing; go for a walk with them, or just sit with them in quiet support.
Remember that “cancer is everybody’s business” and “early detection is the protection”. So have your regular check ups. And always remember, “there is no excuse for domestic abuse”!!
The Family Hope Network is a non-governmental organisation whose aim is to help end the cycle of Domestic Violence in all its forms in Anguilla through multi-disciplinary a partnership.

If you are interested in working with the Family Hope Network call 497-2317, 235-6551 or 497-3763 or email phyllisfb@anguillanet.com.