Wednesday afternoon saw the launch of “Know the Signs” video organised by Action for Breast Cancer Foundation which was held at San Anton Palace. October is best known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a month to strengthen people’s awareness on breast cancer and to understand the early signs or changes of cancer, which could lead to early diagnosis.
Esther Sant, the Chairperson of Action for Breast Cancer Foundation opened the launch explaining the importance of the ‘Know the Signs’ video, which not only is a creative step forward, but also necessary to strengthen awareness on breast cancer.. “Action For Breast Cancer Foundation have been invited by companies to speak and provide necessary information on the signs of breast cancer.” She said that the content of the video is not new information, but is important nonetheless to show viewers that if anyone is facing cancer symptoms, they are not alone but have Action For Breast Cancer Foundation and professionals from the medical field.
President George Vella admired the video greatly and said that such content is extremely important. “We all are aware of the information and the signs of breast cancer but it is extremely important to continue repeating such information on breast cancer as a form of prevention or early diagnosis. “He said that “Know the Signs” video should be shown at schools, colleges and University, to prepare children to understand their bodies and to take care of themselves. “Today we have seen a great advancement in the medical sector and we also see more people going for breast screening which is extremely important.”
He praised the campaign which is pushing to remove the stigma surrounding cancer. “There was a time when we would never speak about cancer and the stigma was part of a lack of education and understanding. I am convinced that today, we have moved away from this stigma, and that we are more than ready to speak up and help one another.”
“Know the Signs” video was produced by Stargate Studios and Matthew Pullicino CEO of Stargate Studios said that the company was thankful for having the opportunity to contribute with Action for Breast Cancer Foundation. “Today people have opportunities to contribute to society, you can put your hand in your pocket and put money forward, but in this opportunity we had the chance to put forward our talent.” He explained that producing the video was an interesting and educational process were the team learnt a lot, making sure to produce a video which was interesting and keep people’s attention.
The artistic director Luke Zammit explained that as a cancer survivor himself, he was humbled by the men and women he met who have dedicated their lives to help cancer patients. “This video means a lot to me. At the age of 14 I was diagnosed with a different form of cancer and at such a young age it is hard to comprehend what you are facing exactly, but here I am today also as a survivor. Working on this production helped me understand my own experience of cancer.” He explained that although a difficult topic, Stargate Studios wanted to produce a video which did not scare people, but to find the best balance of educating and not sugar coating issues, whilst also focusing on the survival aspect.
The video shows a number of breast cancer survivors tell their own journey of cancer, courage and determination, which are supported by comments from medical professionals, such as surgeons and nurses. The video told the tale of a number of women and a man who faced breast cancer, and the struggles they faced coming to terms with their diagnosis. The video highlights self-screening, different stages of diagnosis and even discusses the emotional trauma and fear patients and their family face.