Tonga Breast Cancer receive funds from NZ High Commission and Waterfront restaurant

Press Release

The New Zealand High Commissioner  H.E. Tiffany Babington and Liz Cowley, owner of the Waterfront Restaurant handed over TOP$13,650 to the Tonga Breast Cancer Society today of the TOP$15,650 they raised from their Pink Ribbon Survivors High Tea on  12 October 2018.

In line with the Tonga Breast Cancer Society 2018 campaign theme of “Early detection saves lives” the donation will be used to further raise breast cancer awareness and increase access to screening and health care.

The donation was handed over at the Mammogram Unit at Vaiola Hospital which is managed by Dr Ana ‘Akau’ola and her staff.

HE Tiffany Babington said “One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lives. Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in Tonga and cancer is one of the five leading causes of death.”

“More than 30 new cases of breast cancer have been diagnosed each year over the past five years.  Breast cancer can be detected early with a mammogram which is available at Vaiola Hospital. We strongly encourage all women over the age of 40 to come and get free annual breast screening at the Mammogram Unit.  Appointments can be made by calling 25725. Screening days for women are Tuesdays and Fridays” Dr ‘Akau’ola said.

Christine ‘Uta’atu, Treasurer of the Tonga Breast Cancer Society said “We hope to use some of the money donated to set up a programme so women from both public and private sector organisations participate annually in breast screening – early detection really does save lives”.

The New Zealand High Commision and Waterfront would again like to thank their  sponsors for their support.  A special thanks also to our MCs Joey Mataele and Miss Ribena.

Sponsors were: