Among thousands of South Africans who died suffering from cancer in 2009 was a public health sector health practitioner, Olivia Lyn Volkwyn from Eersterust, north of Pretoria.
She was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in 2000. Afterwards, the diseases gradually spread to many parts of her body including bones, liver and lungs. She passed on in 2009 at the age of 61 years.
As the international community will be commemorating World Cancer Day on 4 February 2012, Health Deputy Minister, Dr Gwendoline Ramokgopa, will visit her family on 3 February 2012 in Eeresterust, north of Pretoria.
Dr Ramokgopa will be joined by Tshwane Municipality Health Mayoral Committee, Cllr Sibongile Moselelane and cancer survivors to pledge solidarity with the Volkwyn family and obtain their lessons in supporting someone who is living with cancer.
Cancer disease is the uncontrolled growth and spread of cells. It can affect almost any part of the body. The growths often invade surrounding tissue and can metastasize to distant sites. Many cancers can be prevented by avoiding exposure to common risk factors, such as tobacco smoke.
A significant proportion of cancers can be cured, by surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy, especially if they are detected early. Globally, every month 600 000 people die from cancer and many of these deaths could be avoided.
Media reporters are therefore invited to the pre-commemoration of World Cancer Day scheduled as follows:
Date: 3 February 2012, Friday
Venue: 220 Steenkamp Avenue, Eersterust, Pretoria
Time: 13h00
Enquiries:
Vukani Mnyandu
Cell: 083 923 0261
