PHILIPSBURG:--- The Rotary Club of St. Martin, in partnership with the Windward Islands Medical Association (WIMA), NAGICO, and S&V, has once again brought the community together to promote health education and public awareness. This year marks the sixth annual conference, and for the first time, it will focus on the critical yet often overlooked topic of women’s health. The event's public session is scheduled for June 12th, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Bel Air Community Center, and it’s free for all to attend.
A Legacy of Collaboration and Public Impact
Since its inception in 2015, this conference series has dedicated itself to bridging the gap between medical professionals and the general public. Over the years, topics like cardiology, diabetes, oncology, nephrology, and lifestyle health have taken center stage. Despite challenges such as severe storms and the COVID-19 pandemic, the Rotary Club has remained steadfast in its mission to provide health education to the St. Martin community.
This year, the focus shifts to women’s health issues, a topic many feel has been underrepresented in medical discussions. According to President Saak of the Rotary Club, “The more we talk, the more we tell the stories, the better it is.” This sentiment reflects the intention behind the event—to encourage open dialogue and empower individuals through knowledge.
Women’s Health Takes the Spotlight
The theme of this year’s conference, “Women’s Health Through Generations of Caribbean Queens,” highlights the unique health challenges women face. The event aims to address the historical oversight in medical research, which often relied on male subjects, overlooking critical biological and physiological differences in women.
Dr. DeKeth, representing WEMA, highlighted the importance of the topics to be covered, stating, “Women’s health has been a very undervalued subject in the medical world. It’s only recently that we’re starting to understand the differences in how conditions like cardiovascular diseases present in men versus women.”
The public session will feature an impressive lineup of speakers who will share insights on pressing issues:
- Dr. Gomez Bravio, a gynecologist specializing in cervical cancer, will discuss the prevention and treatment of cervical cancer, including the impact of HPV and the importance of regular pap smears.
- Dr. Dorenda van Dijk, a leading menopause specialist, will provide a multidisciplinary perspective on menopause, debunking myths and sharing actionable advice on managing this stage of life.
- Estika Ali, a psychologist and domestic violence survivor, will deliver a spoken word session recounting her experience with domestic violence, shedding light on a topic that remains stigmatized in Caribbean society.
- Rensida Boijenaert, Director of Safe Haven, will follow with her vision for supporting survivors of domestic violence and introducing resources like safe houses to those in immediate need.
The session will conclude with a one-hour Q&A panel, moderated by emcee Rebecca Lowe, allowing the public to interact directly with the experts and ask questions.
Raising Awareness and Expanding Access
Throughout the press briefing, several speakers emphasized the importance of raising community awareness on women’s health issues. Lisa Brown from NAGICO highlighted how women often put their health last while caring for others, making this event even more vital. Sharon Holder from S&V reiterated the importance of collaboration, stating, “Together we ensure that we function properly in society and can take better care of our health.”
S&V will also make the event accessible to a larger audience by live-streaming the public session on their Facebook page. This opens the door for those unable to attend in person to still benefit from the wealth of information being shared.
Why Community Matters
The event organizers made it clear that, while the focus is on women’s health, the invitation is also extended to men. Fathers, brothers, husbands, and sons are encouraged to attend and learn how they can support the women in their lives. “Together, we make a stronger community,” said Adelina Chandler, President-Elect of the Rotary Club.
NAGICO, WEMA, SNV, and the Rotary Club of St. Martin stand as examples of collaborative efforts that make events like this possible. Their shared goal is simple yet profound—to foster a culture of awareness and prevention, ensuring that community members can act before health issues reach critical stages.
Don’t Miss Out
The significance of promoting women’s health cannot be overstated. This free event offers a rare opportunity for the community to gain expert insights on critical topics, ranging from cervical cancer to domestic violence. Attendees can participate in discussions, ask questions, and leave with actionable knowledge to improve their well-being and that of their loved ones.
Make plans to join the public session on Thursday, June 12th, at 7 p.m. at the Bel Air Community Center. Arrive early, as seats fill quickly, or tune in via the S&V Facebook live stream. Together, we can break taboos, raise awareness, and create a stronger, healthier community.
