The Yvonne Ashley Galiber Foundation is in its 15th year of bringing Breast Cancer Awareness to the U.S. Virgin Islands. “Sandals, Sunglasses, and Sunset” at the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts in downtown Frederiksted, Oct. 22, from 4 p.m. to midnight, will be a Gala Affair of delicious food and “pink drinks,” live entertainment, DJ music, and special prizes.
YAG’s collaboration with CMCArts recognizes the importance of a holistic approach to healing. The museum supports the use of artistic expression as a way of addressing the stresses of a cancer journey. “SSS” is a fundraiser that will allow both organizations to continue the work that supports healing for women, men, and children, organizers said.
According to YAG Founder and President Yvonne A. Galiber, “Through our screening and diagnostic mammogram program, we have proven that early detection is the best deterrent to breast cancer. We recognized the need to further support those who are medically underserved and underinsured, and we expanded our services in the USVI to assist with the cost of breast biopsies and pathology reports, most recently with the help of a generous grant from the American Cancer Society.”
YAG is a co-founder of the V.I. Cancer Coalition. Their member organizations across the territory are working together to advocate for and offer support services to cancer patients, survivors, and their caregivers and family members, Galiber said.
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month of October, we have hosted many conferences, tennis tournaments, demonstrations of how to do selfbreast examinations, and our “Dance Mammothons.” They all have demonstrated our commitment to our mission of public education and advocacy. We are always happy to speak and set up displays at community events, schools, and churches throughout the year, Galiber said.
When asked if YAG’s events have been successful in attracting the community and those who would benefit from YAG’s help, Galiber’s answer was, “Yes, our community outreach coupled with available data from the V.I. Cancer Registry have confirmed that there is a segment of our community that is at risk for breast cancer. With our advocacy programs, collaborations with health facilities and other organizations and events, our network continues to grow.”
Galiber offers the following, if a patient is diagnosed:
Remember your follow-up appointment for your mammogram and don’t ignore symptoms. Early detection can save lives. Stay on top of your health. Have someone accompany you to your doctor to listen, ask questions and take notes. Be the chairperson of your healthcare team. You know you best. It is not a death sentence, and medical therapy can make living a wonderful adventure.
The evening’s fundraiser will provide delicious catering by Simba from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.; music for dancing and listening by DJ Swain; and Deri, who recently returned from a road tour of her portrayal of Diana Ross, will entertain with her soulful music at 6 p.m.
Prizes will be awarded for the best-decorated sponsor table and the best sandals and sunglasses.
The “After Sunset Party” will begin at 8 p.m. and continue until midnight with Angela and J.T., formerly of Villa Morales, catering their local culinary delights. Music by Baltimore, MD’s best DJ Oji, will cue up a mixture of “Soca meets House Music.” Internationally known USVI mixologist Frank Robinson will serve up “Pink Drinks” all night at the cash bar.
Tickets can be purchased online at cmcarts.org. The cost for the full event from 4 p.m. to midnight is $100/$80 for museum members. Entry for the after-party from 8 p.m. to midnight is $20. Complementary hors d’oeuvres at both events, along with a cash bar will be available.
Tickets can also be purchased at the door.
Entry to the 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. ”SSS Day Party” is at the museum’s Strand St. entrance. Entry to the “After Sunset Party” from 8 p.m. to midnight is at the museum’s King St. entrance.
Several of YAG’s table sponsors have offered seats at their tables. Please go to YAG’s Facebook page for information.
For more information: Yvonne Ashley Galiber Foundation, Inc., 340-332-9115, PO Box 356, Christiansted, Vi 00821. www.cmcarts.org www.yagfoundation.org
