S Hotel Montego Bay Champions Breast Cancer Awareness with Generous Contribution to Screening Initiative
MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica—In a significant step towards promoting breast cancer awareness and early detection, S Hotels Jamaica has pledged $1 million to fund breast cancer screenings for 60 women hailing from underserved communities in western Jamaica. This philanthropic initiative underscores the hospitality group’s continuous commitment to community service, a mission they have steadfastly pursued since the S Hotel’s inception in Montego Bay five years ago.
Unveiling this benevolent gesture, the women involved are among the first in the Caribbean to benefit from screenings using the innovative Koning Machine, housed at Radiology West in the GWEST Medical Complex. This advanced breast CT scan offers a revolutionary alternative to the conventional mammogram, significantly improving comfort and reducing discomfort for patients. "I felt like I was in a jacuzzi," remarked Yvonne Whyte Powell, a beneficiary and retired police deputy superintendent. The experience marked a pleasant departure from the traditional, often uncomfortable, procedures she had previously endured.
Whyte Powell, who is also a community advocate, highlighted the critical importance of early breast cancer screenings. She recounted a cautionary note from her doctor, who pointed out that tumours might develop up to two years before detection. "It’s crucial to get a CT scan or mammogram for early detection," she stressed, urging women to challenge outdated misconceptions and prioritize their health.
She lauded S Hotel for their compassionate sponsorship, noting that this effort reflects the company’s genuine care for the local community. "They’re not just about making money; they care about the people who need help, especially those facing health issues but lack the financial means to act," Whyte Powell said.
Ann-Marie Goffe-Pryce, the general manager of S Hotel Montego Bay, expressed enthusiasm over the initiative’s impact. In a statement during her meeting with some of the women, Goffe-Pryce emphasized the link between health and national productivity. She noted the foundation’s decision to extend screening opportunities to 10 members of their own staff, reinforcing the integral role that early detection plays in saving lives.
"We see our employees as the backbone of the service sector," Goffe-Pryce explained. "Supporting their health, and that of the wider community, embodies our commitment to both our staff and our nation."
This initiative is reflective of S Hotel’s larger goal—transforming lives while fostering a supportive environment that transcends traditional hospitality. As the hospitality sector in Jamaica burgeons, such meaningful contributions are instrumental in weaving corporate endeavors with community wellness, transforming charitable acts into catalysts for change.
