In a heartwarming display of commitment to women’s health, the Ellen White Sustainable Foundation, in partnership with the Awat Foundation and the Police Ladies Association, has provided free breast cancer screening to nearly 100 female police officers across the Bono East Region.
The screening exercise, held at the Techiman Divisional Police Command, formed part of efforts to promote early detection and awareness of breast cancer among women in uniform.
The programme was held under the theme: “Investing in Women’s Health, Investing in Stronger Communities.”
Mrs. Ellen White Opoku, founder of the Ellen White Sustainable Foundation and a 2023 Joy Impact Makers Award recipient, said the initiative was born out of the need to reach officers who cannot easily access health facilities due to their busy schedules.
“This exercise is to help bring the screening to the doorstep of the police, who are unable to attend to health facilities for the same due to their busy work schedules,” she noted.
Police Ladies Association Weighs In
ASP Beatrice Okrah, Crime Officer for the Jema District Police Command and a regional executive member of the Police Ladies Association, commended the organizers and encouraged women to prioritize their health.
She said the time had come for women to own up and get themselves screened to know their statuses and be treated when diagnosed with the condition.
“The time has come for women to own up and get themselves screened to know their statuses and be treated when diagnosed with the condition,” she stated.
ASP Okrah added that the awareness talk had been helpful in creating awareness about what the condition is, equipping participants with knowledge to share with colleagues and family members.
“The talk has been helpful in creating awareness about what the condition is,” she noted.
Service to Support Officers Diagnosed
In a reassuring message to personnel, ASP Okrah disclosed that officers found to have the cancer will be taken care of by the Police Service.
She explained that the welfare of officers remains a priority, and those diagnosed through the screening will receive the necessary support and care from the Service.
A Community Investment
The event reflects a growing push to make healthcare accessible to women in security services, who often sacrifice personal wellness for public duty. By investing in the health of these officers, organizers say the ripple effect will be felt across entire communities.
The Ellen White Sustainable Foundation has indicated its commitment to sustaining such initiatives, with plans to reach more districts in the Bono East Region and beyond.