Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in Samoa, says the C.E.O. of the Samoa Cancer Society (S.C.S.) as he advised the public of a major upcoming fundraising event to support their work.

Papali'i Su'a John Ryan told the Samoa Observer in an interview on Thursday that cancer is still one of the leading causes of death in Samoa.

He said this is why the Sei Pua Day, which is one of the Samoa Cancer Society’s key fundraising events in a calendar year, is an opportunity for the public to show support for those with cancer.

"This year Sei Pua Day falls on the 26th of August and it is a timely reminder for us that cancer is still one of the main causes of death in Samoa, and Sei Pua Day offers us the opportunity to take time to show our support for those with cancer and their support groups," Papali'i said. 

"Sei Pua Day gives us as a community a chance to come together, united in a common cause to reach out to those affected by cancer and share love and support.

“Please wear a sei pua (frangipani) on Friday 26th August 2022 to remember our loved ones lost to cancer, give support to those who are currently dealing with and those that have gone through treatment.

"Every family in Samoa has been touched in some way by cancer. By buying a sei pua from the Samoa Cancer Society, you can help support the vital work that we do.”

As part of the fundraising event, the S.C.S. will set up a stall in front of Vodafone Matafele opposite the ANZ Bank on Beach Road.

According to Papali'i, the Sei Pua Day is the equivalent of the Daffodil Day which is marked in New Zealand and around the world. 

"Sei Pua Day is our own Samoan version of Daffodil Day celebrated in New Zealand and Australia every year. 

“Staff and volunteers will be there selling sei pua, ribbons and handing out cancer brochures for the public.

"Volunteers will be in the city streets selling trays of pua and ribbons. Our community has been asked to support this day by displaying or buying a sei pua or donating.

The overall objective of the society is to reduce the number of people who develop cancer, and ensure those affected by the terminal disease have the best possible quality of life, according to the S.C.S. Chief Executive Officer.

He added that medical information and palliative care support services are available at the society’s National Cancer Resource Centre.

“We offer information and guidance for people who suffer from cancer and their families,” he said. 

“The Centre is open 8.30 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday and offers a comforting experience free of charge.

"The Centre has a selection of resources covering different types of cancers that focuses on preventing and caring for those suffering from cancer.  

“Other resources include books, brochures, posters, research papers of real life stories of people who have lived through the ordeal of cancer, its diagnosis and treatment.

“Internet facilities are available to research cancer information.”

The S.C.S. also does talks and workshops on cancer awareness in village communities, schools, churches, workplaces and service organisations as part of its outreach program.

If you would like to know more about the Samoa Cancer Society call the Centre 23984, email the C.E.O. on email ceo.samoacancer.ws or visit the Sei Pua Day stall 8.30 am to 2 pm on Friday 26 August 2022.