St. Maarten Breast Cancer Support Group Hosts First Support Session of 2026
- Published in Soualiga
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Honorable Minister Richinel S.J. Brug, Mercedes "Elektra" van der Waals Wyatt Elektralyets Foundation President, Head of Labor Department Mr. Selby Philips, Policy Advisor for Public Health Nakita Nicholls and St. Maarten Breast Cancer Support Group members. (photo contributed)
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The St. Maarten Breast Cancer Support Group officially launched its first monthly support session for 2026, hosted collaboratively by the Still Beautiful Foundation, the Positive Foundation, and the Elektralyets Foundation.
The session marked a positive and empowering start to the new year, as the foundations welcomed participants with a shared focus on courage, education, and community support.
The first guest speaker of the year was the Honorable Minister Richinel S.J. Brug of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA). Minister Brug, accompanied by members of his team, Mr. Selby Philip, Head of Department of Labor and Ms. Nakita Nicholls Policy Advisor from the Department of Public Health.
They delivered an informative and engaging presentation outlining the ministry’s various portfolios, available services, and how these resources support individuals and families within the community.
Attendees showed strong interest in the presentations, which sparked meaningful dialogue, questions, and educational discussions. Topics covered included labor-related matters, public health concerns, insurance, the new hospital, and the integral role the Ministry of VSA plays in breast cancer awareness.
Emphasis was also placed on the ministry’s collaboration with the AUC School of Medicine and local health stake holders and foundations across St. Maarten.
Additional key topics addressed included:
- Why breast cancer is a critical public health issue
- Breast cancer within the National Action Plan 2021–2030
- The importance of screening and early detection
- Understanding that prevention begins before diagnosis
- Looking ahead and strengthening efforts to combat breast cancer
Minister Brug took time to address questions from participants, supported by his professional team, and emphasized the importance of open dialogue in shaping future policies and health initiatives. He highlighted how discussions like these are essential for informed decision-making and long-term planning.
Participants expressed appreciation for the minister’s presence and the interactive nature of the session. At the conclusion of the meeting, the foundations presented Minister Richinel S.J. Brug and his team with a token of appreciation in gratitude for their participation and support and community engagement.
The St. Maarten Breast Cancer Support Group meets every last Thursday of the month at the RC4C/4C Foundation, A.T. Illidge Road #60, Unit 1.1 (former WIB Bank building, next to Landsrecherche).