ST CROIX — Nothing can prepare someone for the news that they’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer. An undeniable sense of hopelessness washes over you, and you’re unsure of how to tackle the difficult road that lies ahead. Yvonne Ashley Galiber relates to these feelings all too well. As a breast cancer and a thyroid cancer survivor, she realized that many men and women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have limited resources for various treatments and support options due to their modest financial means.
In 2007, Galiber founded a not-for-profit foundation to help those most in need in the Virgin Islands community. The Yvonne Ashley Galiber Breast Cancer Foundation (YAGF) established their mission to educate the community about the risk factors for breast cancer in the Virgin Islands and to advocate on behalf of women and men touched by this disease. The organization provides financial assistance for breast cancer screening, diagnostic mammograms, and other related services to those who are medically underserved and uninsured.
The National Cancer Institute states that approximately 266,000 new cases of breast cancer in women and 2,500 new cases of breast cancer in men are diagnosed each year. Thanks to advances in medicine and research, in conjunction with the support of organizations like YAGF, Inc., the breast cancer survival rate continues to grow. Nearly 90% of women diagnosed with breast cancer survive five or more years after being diagnosed. “Through our screening and diagnostic mammogram program, we have proven that early detection is the best deterrent to breast cancer,” said Galiber.
Each year, YAGF hosts an annual campaign to increase awareness and funds that supports life-saving research and life-changing support for the disease most common in women. Sandals, Sunglasses, and Sunset will give attendees an unforgettable evening filled with sun-kissed vibes and good times, all while making a difference. Combined with the hottest DJs, a delicious array of food, and a dance floor that won’t stop grooving, you’ll be part of a unique fundraiser poised to make a difference in the fight against breast cancer. This event will take place in January 2024 at Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts in Frederiksted.
To learn more about YAG Foundation, visit www.yagfoundation.org.
Written by Anquanette Gaspard agaspard@cruzanfoodie.com
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