Manama: In line with its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), BMI Bank, a subsidiary of Al Salam Bank- Bahrain renewed its commitment towards enhancing awareness for breast cancer in Bahrain for the 7th consecutive year through a collective donation made out to Think Pink Bahrain and American Mission Hospital (AMH).
The funds will be utilized by Think Pink Bahrain towards the MRI fund through which they aim to purchase an MRI machine to assist Salmaniya Medical Complex in their effort to provide free service in the fight with breast cancer. Concurrently, AMH will employ the resources to sponsor complete breast cancer screenings around Bahrain as well as to educate students in schools and universities across the country.
The two cheques were presented to AMH Chief Executive Officer and Chief Medical Officer Dr. George Cheriyan and Julie Sprakel – Founder and Chairwoman of Think Pink Bahrain respectively by the Bank’s General Manager Support Services Eyad Sater at a ceremony held at the Bank’s headquarters at the World Trade Center (WTC).
“Our partnership with both American Mission Hospital and Think Pink Bahrain extends to over seven years now and we are delighted to once again partner them to support their noble initiatives for yet another year. Although many great strides have been made in breast cancer awareness and treatment, there remains much to be accomplished. As a community centric Bank, we believe it is our responsibility to help in increasing attention and awareness about this disease. We feel privileged to assist these two organizations in raising awareness and educating individuals about this disease whilst empowering women to take charge of their own health,” Eyad Sater, said.
“October is designated as breast cancer awareness month worldwide. It is a powerful and inspiring opportunity to unite as a community to honor breast cancer survivors and raise awareness about steps we can take to reduce the risk of getting breast cancer. We recognize the significance of AMH and Think Pink Bahrain in our community and wish them every success in all their efforts.”
“All donations we raise during this campaign will be utilized to sponsor complete breast cancer screenings around Bahrain. The screening will start with a breast examination, followed by a consultation with a specialist and a mammogram/breast ultrasound which will all be provided free if needed. Our generous sponsor’s commitment to our Community Outreach program is much appreciated and with their support, we hope to make this event a successful yearly programme,” Dr. George Cheriyan, CEO/ CMO, American Mission Hospital, said.
“The American Mission Hospital will be holding a Pink Masquerade Ball on October 16th 2014 along with a fashion show with the proceeds going directly to AMH’s Breast Cancer awareness program under the patronage of Dr Fatema Mohamed Al Balushi, Minister of Social Development. I take this opportunity to invite everyone, to come along and see the various combinations of Pink in fashion.”
“This year, Think Pink Bahrain completes 10 years, and we are pleased and honored to once again have the support of one of the biggest local Banks in Bahrain. BMI Bank’s commitment towards the cause is commendable and their donations year after year has helped us in further enhancing the awareness for breast cancer within Bahrain. Regional research reveals that there has been a steady increase in breast cancer in the Middle East and Asian regions over the last three decades with Arab women being afflicted ten years younger, on average, that in the West,” Julie Sprakel founder and Chairwoman of Think Pink Bahrain said.
“Building a capacity of clear and accessible national statistics, along with public education and awareness programs at national levels is intrinsic to providing better support for nationals and expatriates alike, who have been diagnosed and treated for breast cancer. Think Pink Bahrain, through the kind donation from sponsors and citizens alike, continues to empower women at grass roots levels and provide tools required for them both personally and professionally. From breast self-examination lectures in English and Arabic by accredited health providers to continued education for nurses, doctors and physiotherapists to receive internationally recognized qualifications, have been our mission, which in turn better supports breast cancer patients and their families within the Kingdom.”