Scores of Barbadians and visitors turned out to the Golden Square Freedom Park early Saturday morning to await their turn for vital health screenings. It was a culmination of a nine-month-long endeavour by the Rotary Club of Barbados, dedicated to combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) within the community.
The event, held under the banner of the Rotary Club’s Health and Wellness Initiative, was spearheaded by the club’s president, Ermine Darroux-Francis. Rotary Club is one of the oldest in Barbados, boasting a proud 61-year history and a membership exceeding 110.
“We started at 9 a.m. and people were waiting to get tested. So, this in itself is a success for us,” Darroux-Francis told Barbados TODAY, adding that from early in the morning, Barbadians were lining up to take part in the event.
She expressed her satisfaction with the turnout, emphasising the importance of early detection in the fight against NCDs.
“Barbadians are responding, and this is good because we believe early detection and knowing your status is the first step to help fight NCDs,” she added.
The initiative, which started in September last year, saw Rotarians traversing all 11 parishes to conduct early screenings. The Rotary Club President explained that the decision to embark on this project stemmed from the alarming rates of NCDs reported by health authorities in the region. With a focus on early screening and raising awareness, the Rotary Club aimed to make a tangible difference in combating these diseases.
Reflecting on the broader spectrum of Rotary’s endeavours, Darroux-Francis highlighted their commitment to seven key areas of focus, including disease prevention and youth empowerment. “For us, the economic value of this particular project is more than $600,000,” she revealed, underscoring the club’s substantial investment in community health.
Acknowledging Rotary’s ongoing initiatives, particularly in youth development, Darroux-Francis outlined their Youth Elevation Scheme, conducted in collaboration with the Juvenile Liaison Scheme. “Our aim is to boost their confidence, enhance their communication and listening skills, and help them to think before they act,” she stated.
The event was a culmination of a nine-month-long endeavour by the Rotary Club of Barbados, dedicated to combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) within the community. (Photo by Ryan Gilkes)
In addition to youth-focused endeavours, the Rotary Club of Barbados extends its support to various community projects, ranging from disaster management to medical assistance. Their partnership with organisations such as the Child Care Board exemplifies their commitment to holistic community welfare.
Addressing concerns about the sustainability of their health initiatives, Darroux-Francis emphasised collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health and Wellness and surgical and educational institutions. “We expect the project to continue and to provide support to the community,” she affirmed while highlighting the collaborative effort that underpinned the event’s success.
Among the organisations taking part were Sagicor Life Inc, Ross University, the Blood Collection Centre of the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Bayview Hospital and Laboratory, the Barbados Cancer Society, the Barbados Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Maria Holder Diabetes Center for the Caribbean, and the Diabetes and Hypertension Association, Wibisco and Pelican Produce. (RG)
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