Cancer Walk

Jaltemba Cancer Walk Expands Diagnostic Testing

            ©Tara A. Spears

Due to the amazing community participation in the early detection free mammogram program the Cancer Walk Committee has decided to expand the program to include testing for cervical and uterine cancers. “Women come in (the restaurant) asking how to participate,” said Patti Hueso of Hindi & Jaime’s, the major sponsor of the annual event. By mid-November, just months after starting the program, 53 area women have received a mammogram or ultrasound from the Cancer Walk fund!  Of those 53, two have been diagnosed with breast cancer that requires surgery and chemo- which our sister group, Cancer de Mama La Penita, is assisting with the women’s medical expenses.

While it is excellent to have such a strong response to the initiative, it is horrifying that so many women in our small community need this service. It is horrifying that so many women would not have sought early detection and medical treatment for breast problems without the help of Cancer Walk. Through the generosity of those that donate or participate in the annual Cancer Walk and street party, local women are getting much needed preventative medical care all year long. Thank you, thank you! There is a definite need for continued preventative screening as Jaltemba Bay and Nayarit have an above average incidence of female cancers.

Two local women, physician Dr. LidiaAna Flores and CCC director Viky Robelo, have been invaluable in getting the word out to the local residents. Not only have both had wonderful ideas for implementing the CW initiative but both ladies are terrific telephone translators! The CW non- Spanish speaking members are very grateful for their efforts. The monthly breast exam seminars that are held at the CCC is another way to raise awareness for early detection.

Due to information from the local medical community that Jaltemba Bay has an extremely high incidence of female STDs, without early detection or treatment, these infections can lead to cancer of the uterus or cervix. Effective immediately, the CW fund will now also be providing free pap tests as screening for these female cancers to low income women.

To all of the wonderful people that attend the annual Walk Against Cancer, know that your fun afternoon is having a lasting impact and that this initiative would not be possible without your financial donations! 100% of the funds generated at the once-a-year event are used to pay for mammograms, pap tests, ultrasounds, and transportation to the testing facility in Puerto Vallarta; our overhead is zero because all components of the street party are donated and staffed by volunteers.

Join us for the 2015 Jaltemba Walk Against Cancer Monday, February 16.  We’ll start beachside at Mateja’s Restaurant and finish at Hindi and Jaime’s Restaurant for dancing, drinks, and fun!