The Samoa Cancer Society is $10,000 richer this week, after a donation from the A.N.Z. Bank Samoa helped launch its annual street appeal day on Friday.

Sei Pua Day is the yearly collection event for the society, which alongside corporate and government grants relies on donations to fund its services for cancer patients, and education work to prevent more critically ill people.

Society President Lauaki Jason Annandale said the A.N.Z. has been a longstanding and committed partner to SC.S for many years, and thanked it for the donation.

This year on Sei Pua Day, supporters can donate in exchange for bumper stickers, kids books stickers, tee shirts, water bottles, facemasks, and course a fresh pua flower to wear on the day. 

Bernie Poort, A.N.Z. Country manager said the large donation was needed to help S.C.S. continue its work seamlessly during the uncertainty brought on by COVID-19.

“These are uncertain times with the impact of COVID-19 to the most vulnerable in our community, and it is not lost on us that our people affected by cancer are part of that group,” he said.

“Therefore we decided that this year we donate this amount of money that I know will go a long way in sustaining the great work that the Society is doing.”

A.N.Z. staff will be volunteering alongside the Society team on Friday to collect donations during the street appeal and sell merchandise. 

There are currently 47 cancer patients registered with the society, and eight of them are children. Majority of the adult patients require palliative care. Two adult patients passed away this week. 

The Society supports them with a dedicated nurse who visits and ensures they are taking their medication, and accompanies them to the hospital when required, as well as helping their families manage their loved one in their condition. 

They also advocate for and help people undertake cancer preventing activities like quitting smoking, drinking less alcohol and exercising more, as well as getting checked by a doctor regularly for cancer screenings to catch problems before they can’t be cured.