Araneta City teams up with the Kapuso Foundation for breast cancer awareness
Getting a breast cancer diagnosis is a frightening prospect. Data shows that of the 86,484 total cancer cases in the country every year, 27,163 are breast cancer cases. This disease has claimed 9,926 lives, making it the country’s third most fatal type of cancer. The Philippines has the highest rate of breast cancer in Asia and places ninth globally. Often, diagnosis occurs only in advanced stages, underscoring the urgent need for awareness and early detection.
To raise awareness of this disease and the importance of early screening, Araneta City is collaborating with non-profit volunteer-based Kasuso Foundation for Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October. This joint effort seeks to shed light on the harsh realities of the disease and inspire action within the community.
For the whole month, Araneta City is hosting the “SUSUportahan Kita” art exhibit to help bridge the gap in breast cancer care in the Philippines. It is a benefit art exhibit that features art pieces from artists who are breast cancer patients or survivors, and artists who were inspired by stories of loved ones affected by the disease. Proceeds will go to Kapuso Foundation’s early detection and patient support programs. The “SUSUportahan Kita” benefit art exhibit will be at Ali Mall from Oct. 23 to 27.
On Oct. 15, Farmers Plaza will host the “KasusoCon,” offering a unique fusion of creativity and compassion. This benefit art convention, in partnership with Araneta City and the Philippine Foundation for Breast Cancer Inc., promises to showcase how art could be a potent vehicle for raising awareness and funds. Entertainment icon Ogie Diaz and his friends will also be bringing joy through the “Pink Kapuso” event.
Finally, a photo exhibition entitled, “Kapuso Against All Odds,” will take place on Oct. 25 at Ali Mall. The exhibit aims to celebrate the triumph of the human spirit against the odds of breast cancer. Through a powerful collection of photographs, it will tell stories of hope, courage, and unwavering determination, serving as a source of inspiration for all who attend.
“By spreading awareness, offering support, and engaging in meaningful activities, we will create a vibrant tapestry of hope and solidarity in the fight against breast cancer. Through art, education, and a deep sense of compassion, we are embodying the spirit of unity and determination to conquer this dreaded disease,” said Marjorie Go, AVP for marketing at Araneta City.
A focus on mental health and volunteerism
In line with the celebration of World Mental Health Month, the nonprofit group I am MAD (Making A Difference) Volunteers Inc. will be holding the MAD Talks Padayon forum, highlighting mental health and the importance of volunteerism in boosting overall wellness.
MAD Talks Padayon is calling on everyone to participate, including students, leaders, educators, young professionals, and parents, whether they’re part of the volunteering community or not. The event will take place at the Jose Rizal University Centennial Auditorium in Mandaluyong City.
“More than just an event, MAD Talks Padayon is a gathering of community encouragers that serves as a beacon of light in a world that sometimes feels shrouded in darkness,” explains MAD Talks Padayon project lead Edwin Basa.
This year’s lineup of volunteer speakers includes multi-awarded Global Youth Ambassador and ASEAN Youth Advocates Network founder Mirus Ponon, advocate for children with autism and senior creative designer Lyman Hansel Gerona, lead convenor of BIDA para sa Dumagat passion project Mayo Ceazar Mendoza, and mental health advocate Ymari Kristia Pascua. In addition, attendees can look forward to musical performances and entertainment courtesy of JRU’s Teatro Rizal, the official performing arts partner of MAD Talks Padayon.
Tickets are now available for as low as ₱49.