"As a cancer survivor myself, I thought, I need to work for a company like this"
In honour of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Carol Ofori chats with the Marketing and Events Coordinator for PinkDrive in KZN, Janice Benecke.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The month dedicated to women who have survived breast cancer has a long history that began in the USA, when one week in October was dedicated to raising awareness towards breast cancer screenings and mammograms.
Screenings and mammograms are a costly affair and so in KZN, there is the PinkDrive.
"PinkDrive NPC, a health sector NGO, was founded in 2009 by Ms. Noelene Kotschan, on the premise that 'Early detection will help to prolong a life'. PinkDrive’s cardinal purpose is to contribute meaningfully towards preventing as many people as it can, from succumbing to breast, cervical, prostate and testicular cancer." (PinkDrive)
Their purpose is to reach communities who do not have access to "reasonable care for these conditions" and to help educate and raise awareness amongst those who live in areas where there is no healthcare.
A woman who stands out from the crowd and started off as a volunteer at the PinkDrive is our woman crush today, Janice Benecke.
Not only is Janice Benecke the Marketing and Events Coordinator for PinkDrive in KZN, but she is also a cancer survivor.
Janice says: "My journey with PinkDrive started in 2011 as a volunteer at their events. I was really impressed by PinkDrive’s professionalism and preparedness – their Pink trucks, dedicated staff and volunteers. I offered to assist again at future events. What stood out for me was how the nurses treated people who came for a breast examination or advice. They treated them with love, care and respect."
And isn't that something that we all want more of?
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Janice's story is one of many and her ability to empathise and help others on their journey whilst still enjoying her work is definitely something to aspire to.
Self-examinations are always something that is encouraged when it comes to breast care, click here to learn how to self-examine.
Being a cancer survivor myself, I thought, I need to work for a company like this, I think that I have a lot to offer. PinkDrive contacted me more and more often to volunteer at their events and I grew more passionate and showed more compassion in helping others. I was so happy when I was finally hired full-time in 2014. I value just how fortunate I am to work in the PinkDrive environment and to appreciate this wonderful culture of support, compassion and empathy for one another and our extended families.
Image Courtesy of ECR