x
Breaking News
More () »

Buddy Check 12 launches in Jamaica, to be called 'Sister Check'

Breast cancer is the number one cancer killer of women over age 25 in Jamaica, according to various news articles there.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Buddy Check 12 has already saved thousands of lives around Jacksonville, the United States and the entire world. As we celebrate 25 years of helping women detect breast cancer early, we're adding another country to Buddy Check: Jamaica.

It's all thanks to Elaine Sobers, a nurse in Jacksonville who reached out to First Coast News anchor Jeannie Blaylock.

Elaine says, "I love Jamaica," and her dream is to make Buddy Check "huge" in her home country.

Elaine saw Jeannie launching Buddy Check in Rio during the Olympics and felt inspired the program would help the people she treasures.

Breast cancer is the number one cancer killer of women over age 25 in Jamaica, according to various news articles there.

The program will be called "Sister Check" in Jamaica because Elaine says "sister" has such a warm feeling, and it's a popular term from woman to woman there. Already women have set up a Facebook page in Jamaica and they're beginning to plan radio and other media announcements.

In Jamaica, Elaine explains, the best way to reach people is through radio, rather than TV. Elaine is also going out personally to explain self-exams to women.

"My dream is that grandmothers will tell their grandchildren," she said.

Baptist/MD Anderson is our partner for Buddy Check. If you'd like a free Buddy Check kit, just call 904-202-CARE.

Before You Leave, Check This Out