Inspire hope through unwavering support for breast cancer patients 

Ms Mary Wong-Hemrajani is a breast cancer survivor who has dealt with the hardships, stress, and prejudice that breast cancer patients often face. Following her recovery, she started volunteering and supporting others with similar experiences. “To me, breast cancer was not a curse but a blessing that inspired me to extend a helping hand to others in need.”

In 2006, the Global Chinese Breast Cancer Organizations Alliance was founded. Its aim was to break the silence surrounding breast cancer in the Chinese community and promote the message that having breast cancer is not a fault or a stigma. Considering the geographical and political environment, Mary led the Alliance to register as a non-profit charity in Hong Kong in 2016 to ensure its sustainable growth. The Alliance connects Chinese breast cancer groups worldwide and supports the establishment and growth of breast cancer support groups in Mainland China and other countries. This ensures that Chinese patients diagnosed with breast cancer can receive necessary support no matter where they are.

Mary’s leadership was crucial in establishing the “Pink Angels” patient support service, which is run by a group of breast cancer survivors. They provide a wide range of peer support to newly diagnosed patients, including accompanying them to treatment, offering online support, operating a telephone hotline, and organising consultation sessions with specialists, so to help alleviate patients’ anxiety and fear. The team carefully matches patients with volunteers who have similar cancer stages, enabling them to share their experiences and provide encouragement in the fight against cancer.

In addition to psychosocial support, Mary strongly believes in the importance of public breast cancer education. She thinks that women are pillars of families. Today, women lead busy lives and often neglect their health while prioritising their work and families. Due to a lack of knowledge about breast cancer, they only seek medical advice when they experience pain, leading to regrets later on. “We once had a patient who worked on a daily wage job. She ignored the lump, which was a sign of cancer, found in her breast. As a result, she missed the optimal treatment window and eventually lost her life to cancer.” Mary actively promotes advocacy and breast health education, particularly among grassroots and low-income women. She aims to enhance their understanding of breast cancer prevention and treatment, enabling them to avoid heartbreaking cases resulting from delayed treatment.

“Humanity is to empower oneself and inspire others, making a positive impact on people’s lives.”