Breast cancer survivors have urged young women to prioritise early detection and regular self-examinations, warning that the disease is increasingly affecting women below the usual screening age of 40.
The call was made during the launch of the Run for Roses breast cancer awareness campaign in Bulawayo on Tuesday, an initiative led by local artist, model and songwriter Michaella De Necker. The campaign seeks to unite survivors, health advocates and the public in promoting awareness and early screening.
“We are here collaborating today on a special cause,” said De Necker. “It’s an important day for Bulawayo and for Zimbabwe because this is the month when young people can make a difference.”
Survivors at the event shared deeply personal accounts of their battles with the disease, underlining the emotional, physical and financial strain of treatment, and the critical role of early detection in improving survival chances.
Precious Mpofu, 45, who was diagnosed at 36, described her experience as “a real nightmare” that set her on a long and costly medical journey. She underwent a mastectomy, eight months of chemotherapy, radiation treatment, and is now in the seventh year of a decade-long course of chemoxiphine.
“Cancer starts at the early ages,” she said. “I would advise young ladies to start checking their breasts, use self-tests and don’t wait for symptoms.”
Mpofu cautioned against turning to traditional remedies, saying many women delay treatment because of cultural misconceptions.
“As black women, we are told that breast cancer is witchcraft, not a disease of the genes,” she said. “Traditional methods give you false hope while the disease keeps spreading. I’m here to testify about the greatness of medicine.”
Another survivor, Lucia Bopoto, who was diagnosed at 35, echoed that message. She said self-awareness and early action had saved her life.
“If you check yourself in time, your chances of survival are higher,” she said. “Cancer is not a death sentence, it can be the beginning of a brand new life.”
Abigail De Necker, a six-year survivor, spoke about the emotional toll of her treatment and credited her faith and family for helping her through recovery.
“It was a long, rough journey; each day presented a new challenge, the pain, the fear,” she said. “My niece was my pillar of strength, and I thank God for guiding me.”
Abigail also said she relied on herbal remedies during her treatment, which she believes contributed to her recovery.
“I learnt to use herbs, and it worked for me. I’m cancer-free and thankful to God for the knowledge,” she said.
The Run for Roses campaign forms part of Pink October, a global initiative to raise breast cancer awareness. Organisers said the focus this year is to reach younger women and rural communities with accurate information on screening and treatment.
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