FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRESS RELEASE

OCTOBER 26, 2026

SYGNUS BUILDS ON BREAST CANCER COMMITMENT WITH J$1 MILLION DONATION LARGEST ANNUAL CONTRIBUTION TO DATE SUPPORTS MAMMOGRAPHY FUNDRAISING AND TREATMENT ASSISTANCE

(Kingston, Jamaica) – Since 2020, Sygnus has remained committed to turning breast cancer awareness into meaningful action, contributing over J$4 million to support early detection, mammogram screenings and care for persons affected by the disease. This year, the company strengthened that longstanding commitment with its largest annual contribution to date: J$1 million to the Jamaica Cancer Society (JCS) and Jamaica Reach to Recovery (JR2R). The donation supports fundraising for a new mammography machine and financial assistance for women undergoing breast cancer treatment.

The funds allocated to the JCS will contribute to its fundraising efforts to acquire a new mammography machine, strengthening the Society’s capacity to provide breast cancer screening and support early detection. The contribution to JR2R will help the organisation continue providing essential assistance to women undergoing treatment, including subsidies for medical expenses, diagnostic tests, surgeries, prostheses and counselling. By helping to offset these costs, the funding will ease the financial and practical pressures that can accompany a breast cancer diagnosis, particularly for women who may otherwise struggle to access necessary care.

Beyond financial assistance, Sygnus also recognises the importance of creating opportunities for women affected by breast cancer to feel supported, encouraged and connected to others who understand their experiences. JR2R hosts monthly meetings that give its members a space to share experiences, build connections and enjoy moments of fellowship outside the demands of treatment and recovery. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Sygnus partnered with the organisation to sponsor its October meeting, treating members to food, a floral arrangement workshop and an uplifting session with Stacey Hines, CEO of Epic Transformation. Through her message, Hines encouraged the women to reflect on hope, self-worth and the strength that can be found in community. The gathering offered members an opportunity to relax, express their creativity and enjoy a shared experience in an environment centred on their well-being.

Elizabeth James, VP and Head of Wealth and Client Strategy at Sygnus, said the company’s continued support reflects its belief that breast cancer awareness must be matched by sustained action, access to care and meaningful support for women and their families. “Breast cancer awareness must lead to action. Since 2020, we have stood alongside JCS and JR2R to help women access early detection and navigate the financial and emotional demands of treatment. We all know at least one person who has been affected by this illness, which makes this a cause that touches every community and every family. Every contribution, partnership and act of support can help make a meaningful difference in a woman’s life. Our commitment is long-term: to strengthen this work and ensure that women and their families know they are not alone.”

The Jamaica Cancer Society’s fundraising campaign for a new mammography machine comes at a time when access to breast screening remains an important consideration in Jamaica’s cancer care landscape. Mammography can identify abnormalities that may require further investigation, helping healthcare providers detect breast cancer at an earlier stage. Greater screening capacity can strengthen efforts to encourage women to seek timely assessments and improve access to services that support early diagnosis.

Roshane Reid-Koomson, Executive Director at the Jamaica Cancer Society, welcomed Sygnus’ continued partnership, emphasising the importance of improving access to screening services. “Access to mammography is an important part of our work to promote early detection and encourage women to take their breast health seriously. The acquisition of a new machine would strengthen our capacity to provide screening services and support our efforts to reach more women. This is a significant undertaking, and partnerships with organisations such as Sygnus help us advance that goal. We appreciate this continued commitment to the Jamaica Cancer Society and to the women who rely on our services for screening, education and guidance.”

The financial burden of breast cancer treatment presents another challenge for women and their families. Medical investigations, medication, procedures and other related expenses can place considerable pressure on household finances, particularly when treatment requires ongoing care. These costs can make an already difficult period even more demanding, underscoring the importance of assistance that helps women access the services they need.

Sandra Samuels, President of Jamaica Reach to Recovery, expressed gratitude for Sygnus’ continued support, noting the difference financial assistance can make to women facing the costs of treatment. “A breast cancer diagnosis brings significant changes to a woman’s life, and the financial demands of treatment can add another layer of difficulty for patients and their families. Some women need assistance with medical expenses at a time when their attention and resources are already stretched. Contributions such as this help us respond to those needs and provide support where it is most needed. Sygnus’ continued partnership is valuable to our work and to the women we serve, and we are grateful for its commitment to helping them navigate their treatment journeys.”

Through its continued partnership with JCS and JR2R, Sygnus remains committed to supporting initiatives that improve access to breast cancer screening, ease the financial burden of treatment and provide meaningful support to women affected by the disease.