The Air Wives Organisation (AWO) in Takoradi has commemorated World Breast Cancer Month with a series of impactful events, including a donation to a local orphanage, a public awareness walk and a thanksgiving church service.

The organisation observed the month with a donation to the Egyam Children's Home in the Ahanta West Municipality in the Western Region on Saturday, 12 October, 2024. They presented essential supplies such as food, drinks, clothing and other items to the home.

Director of the orphanage, Sister Mary Gladys said children facing various challenges are supported by the generosity of organisations such as the AWO. She expressed deep gratitude for AWO’s generosity and called on other organisations to emulate the kind gesture which would greatly help improve the lives of the children.

Following the donation on Saturday, 19 October, 2024 members of AWO, along with military personnel and Defence Civilian Staff from Air Force Base Takoradi, Western Naval Command, 2 Battalion of Infantry took part in a breast cancer awareness walk to educate the public about breast cancer, its early detection and the importance of regular screening.

In her remarks, the Guest of Honour for the programme, Mrs. Rosette Okyere Bekoe, wife of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) who is the Chief Patron of the Air Wives Organisation, highlighted the significance of the annual event. She explained that the event was a critical reminder of the ongoing battle against breast cancer, a disease that continues to affect millions worldwide. Mrs. Bekoe stressed that this year’s theme: "No one should face breast cancer alone," resonated with the 2024 goals of the World Health Organization (WHO), which focuses on prevention, early detection, treatment and support for everyone affected by the disease.

She thus called for fostering open conversations about the disease to allow individuals share experiences and concerns freely.

Mrs. Bekoe commended the Air Wives’ Organisation for their dedication to the fight against breast cancer and for spearheading awareness efforts over the years. She encouraged the members to continue upholding the reputation of the organisation as they support their spouses in fulfilling Command’s vision for the Ghana Air Force.

The Patron of AWO-Takoradi Mrs. Marion Akosua Pokua Atiemo, wife of the Base Commander, Air Force Base Takoradi, reiterated the organisation's commitment to supporting those affected by breast cancer and promoting education, awareness, early detection, proactive health and wellness for quality of life.

Screening for breast cancer and various medical examinations were conducted at the Air Force Base Takoradi Medical Centre.

To culminate the activities a thanksgiving church service was held at the Presbyterian/Methodist Church on Sunday, 20 October 2024. The service featured inspiring testimonies from breast cancer survivors, underscoring the crucial role that early detection plays in fighting the disease and the power of hope of survival.