Arron Nyamayaro
THE wife of the Commander of the ZNA has revealed that she is a cancer survivor.
She is urging members of the ZNA, and their families, to prioritise early screening.
Winnie Jessica Tapfumaneyi joined the ZNA Harare District in a march for Breast Cancer Awareness Launch and Annual Wellness Day in Harare.
She challenged members of the ZNA, and their families, to consider going for early screening. Tapfumaneyi said she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015.
She is the chairperson of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Women’s Association’s ZNA chapter. She said seeking help, when it’s needed, was a sign of strength, not weakness.
She also shared her experience as a breast cancer survivor.
“Breast cancer remains a major health concern in our communities and awareness is one of the important steps towards prevention, early diagnosis, timely treatment and improved outcomes,” she said.
The event included activities focused on fitness, nutrition education and stress management.
Tapfumaneyi encouraged participants to incorporate healthy habits into their daily lives.
She called on people to overcome fear, stigma and misinformation about cancer and to seek medical attention early.
She said some members of the force had died after presenting themselves late for treatment and this was partly because of religious and cultural misinformation.
Tapfumaneyi encouraged women, over the age of 35, and men, with a family history of breast cancer, to get screened.
She also urged men to support early detection and share caregiving responsibilities.
“Breast cancer is not only a women’s issue. You have a critical role as husbands, fathers and commanders to encourage early detection and share the caregiving burden,” she said. She reminded members that counselling and mental health support were available at military hospitals.
“Our health personnel are highly trained and are ready to support you through any challenges you may be facing.
“Remember, your wellbeing is the Army’s number one weapon, without which no battle will be won,” she said.
Tapfumaneyi urged members to make their health and wellness a priority every day, saying that looking after themselves would help them care for one another and fulfil their duties.
