Abu Dhabi Week meets inspiring women who are taking breast cancer awareness to the next level. We speak to survivors, event organisers and friends raising the flag of prevention
Pink Polo
Carrie McNeill, founder of Pink Polo at the Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club, is a very busy woman. The idea for Pink Polo came to her after she discovered some very alarming facts about breast cancer. “Statistics say one in
eight women will be diagnosed. Sadly I’ve had a few friends who have been affected in the worst way and I believe it’s important that we all do something to help, as the saying goes ‘no one can do everything but we all can do something,’” she says.
To get the entire family involved, Pink Polo features an exhibition of the UAE’s best polo players and professional Argentinean players coming together for an adrenaline filled match. “I’m a countryside girl so I love combining sports with social relaxation and that’s what I want Pink Polo to offer the community whilst supporting this wonderful cause,” she adds. Other events to look out for include heritage activities, children’s play area and a pink majlis offering free screenings to visitors.
Gates open from 2pm, admission is free. Hosted on 10th November, Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club.
For more information visit: www.pinkpolo.ae
Jacqueline Wood from Abu Dhabi Women’s Group and friend Denise Hayward (pictured) are the ladies behind the afternoon tea party at Anantara.
A scrumptious spread of posh pastries, traditional finger sandwiches, homemade scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of tea will be laid on for guests.
Breast cancer awareness is a cause close to Denise’s heart; devastatingly she lost her sister and best friend to this disease. “My two sisters, three cousins and grandmother have all been affected by cancer, because of this I’m a big advocate of cancer awareness,” Denise says. She reminds us that it’s not only women who suffer from breast cancer. “Male breast cancer is not really talked about in Abu Dhabi, we really do need more awareness,” she says.
“These October events are an opportunity to support breast cancer charities, to support and celebrate those who have survived breast cancer and remember and honour those who didn’t.”
Jacqueline’s family has also been affected by cancer. “My father suffered from cancer and I have breast cysts which are benign, so that’s why I’m supporting this cause.” Jacqueline promises the afternoon tea will be full of “fun and frivolity” and encourages guests to dig out their best frocks for the occasion.
Check out the afternoon tea at the upstairs lounge, Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara, tickets cost AED 135. From 22nd October at 3pm for more information email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Pink-a-plenty
Dr Grace Edwards is assistant director of nursing and midwifery at the Corniche Hospital and a breast cancer survivor. This already super-busy lady will be involved in many events during breast cancer awareness month.
She explained, “I have signed up to Mountain High ME which is organising an expedition to Antarctica for breast cancer survivors in the UAE. As part of our commitment to raising awareness about breast cancer prevention, I am talking and attending many events including Pink Polo, BRAS 9 ball, the British Business Group and the American Business Group. I will also be talking to women here at the Corniche Hospital as part of our campaign to help raise awareness about breast cancer.”
As a survivor of breast cancer, Dr Edwards hasn’t always been comfortable talking about her story.
“Normally I keep a low profile in October, as I don’t like talking about my cancer. Because of Mountain High, I feel ready to talk to a wider audience about my experience to encourage women to attend screenings” she said.
Dr Edwards was misdiagnosed twice before receiving the treatment she needed. She now encourages others to take charge of their health and get regular checks.
