It’s such a coincidence that I scheduled my first post-child mammogram here in Beijing during the month of October, which is recognized around the world as Breast Cancer Awareness month. It just so happened that I was alerted to the presence of a small but persistent lump in my right breast during a recent massage session and decided it would do no harm to cover all my bases. So I called up the hospital to make an appointment for a mammogram.

The first thing I learned is that at Beijing United Family Hospital, I needed to see a doctor in the Breast Surgery Department for a consultation before I could get a mammogram. This isn’t always the case at other clinics and hospitals so check ahead.

Ultrasound instead of mammography

Anyway, the doctor was friendly and assuring as I related my concerns. After a hands-on examination, she suggested that we do an ultrasound instead of a mammogram, the reason being that ultrasounds are more accurate in examining the breasts of women younger than 45. In case you didn’t know, a mammogram is a low-dose X-ray whereas ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves to generate an image. Another fun fact: Asian women’s breasts tend to be denser than their Western counterparts.

Forget the pain

At this point, I hope we can do away with the misconception that breast exams are painful. The word mammogram seemingly brings to mind the image of a woman’s bare breasts being squashed by a machine as she winces. But that image is a thing of the past. Though I have yet to do an actual mammogram, I can confidently say that the ultrasound exam was completely painless. The most challenging part was wiping off the excess gel they used.

Cysts are okay

The results were available practically instantly, and concluded that the lump in my right breast (the reason I was there in the first place) was a perfectly harmless liquid-filled cyst. It was best left alone and the worst case scenario would be that it burst due to undue pressure, though even then it wouldn’t be cause for concern. It is tissue that can metastasise into the more worrying tumors. There was a teeny tiny tissue mass (smaller than 1cm) in my left breast that the doctor suggested I return in six months to monitor. Though it is highly likely that this little mass is due to hormonal changes and will dissipate on its own.

Don’t panic if you find anything

More often than not, it really isn’t something to fret about. It’s not advisable to create unnecessary stress worrying about something beyond our control. Googling the worst that can happen may cause sleepless nights and bring on other health problems! Seek medical attention to put your mind at ease instead.

Final notes

For women below 40, yearly breast checkups aren’t necessary. Women between the ages of 40 and 45 can opt for a screening if medical facilities are readily accessible. For women above 45, an annual mammogram is recommended. Check with your medical provider to see if they offer a free screening during October. When I was getting my facial treatment last week, I was offered a free TCM massage for my breasts in honor of this special month.

KEEP READING: Ever Had an Ear Orgasm?

Images: Unsplash

As we all know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an international campaign that mainly aims to increase awareness about breast cancer, the leading type of cancer among women worldwide, as well as to raise funds for research that will eventually lead to a cure, and to develop support systems for patients.

While survival rates for patients in most developed countries are high and reach between 80 percent and 90 percent, breast cancer is still a challenging and life-changing situation for many women and their families. Breast cancer incidence in China has increased in previous years, with an expert quoting several studies on the effects of the now-abolished one-child policy on childbearing and stress in women living in urban areas as major risk factors for developing the illness.

There are hospitals in Beijing that have a dedicated facility for breast cancer patients, and activities are being held this month to ramp up awareness about the illness. That means that even if you’re in China and don’t speak the local language, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t have yourself checked out.

On October 28, the last Sunday of the Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Oasis International Hospital will hold a fair to celebrate this international occasion. Titled “Beijing Boobs,” the event brings together several personalities and experts to help propagate the message that “Early prevention and treatment can save lives”, and engage the female international community in Beijing.

READ: How to Show Your Support and Love to Breast Cancer Patients

The organizers have also invited people from the Beijing market scene to provide workshops and sell products for women, adding more festive and fun flair to the event. Attendees are asked to dress in pink. For a list of activities, refer to the schedule provided by the organizers below.

– 2-3pm: Pink Market opens with vendors including Pauline’s Cuisine, The Green Room, jewelry makers, and candle crafters.
– 3-4pm: Sessions including a lecture on breast self-examination by an Oasis specialist, information how to get measured for proper bra size, a talk from a breast cancer survivor, and an empowering lecture session by life coach Caneisha Berry
– 4-5pm: Workout with a coach from Jindafit

Beijing Boobs: A Breast Cancer Awareness Event, Oct 28
Adults. RMB 30 (entrance fee). 2-5pm. Oasis International Hospital

Photos: marijana1 via Pixabay, Courtesy of OASIS International Hospital

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when women are encouraged to get checked out as well as show our support for the cause in various ways. This international campaign has been running for 33 years and has inspired thousands of sponsors, millions of advocates, and increased funding that continues to search for treatments and cures.

Breast cancer support is an area for which I am an advocate, as it’s one condition that has changed my attitude towards health. My mom was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer in 2012, and I can still remember vividly when she cried in front of me after she found out about her diagnosis. She had her left breast removed and eventually became bald as her chemotherapy sessions progressed. Thankfully, she has survived treatment, and is now in remission and taking maintenance drugs.

Having breast cancer (or any other serious medical condition) takes a toll not only on someone’s physical health but also on their mental well-being. I’ve seen mom and other breast cancer patients deal with the pain of undergoing treatment, and saw how they looked very isolated and felt emotional and guilty. It takes all of their energies to stay strong at these trying times, but they shouldn’t be alone because there are ways that we can show our love to them.

– Show them that we actually listen to them. I know that saying “Be strong” and “We’re here for you” encourages breast cancer patients to be strong and fight off this condition. Being there when they cry or share their stories gives them reassurance that they’re not alone in this battle.

– Help them with daily chores. And when you reach out, don’t put the burden on them of deciding what kind of help you can offer. Don’t say “What can I do?”, say “let me do this washing up for you.” Simple tasks like going with them on a supermarket run, or walking their pets, or driving their kids to school are enough to relieve mental pressure.

– Focusing on awareness is good, but driving patient support is better. It’s true that there are countless ways to remind women to undergo breast screening. However, many breast cancer patients, especially those who are underprivileged or in rural communities, need support. There are charities that focus on patient support, including screenings and treatment. But help doesn’t necessarily have to be money; you can donate wigs, hats, scarves, or clothes to breast cancer foundations, or volunteer and organize yoga or mindfulness classes for patients.

– Donate to research initiatives. Breast cancer is the most common cancer type in women worldwide. But according to Healthline.com, “most of the charitable money goes to basic research that has little clinical application.” Centers like The Breast Cancer Research Foundation are doing research in hopes of finding a cure and improving care for patients.

– Wear pink this month! Pink ribbons or clothing expresses your moral support for women with breast cancer. It’s a small thing but it definitely makes a difference. But also, remember to “Think Before You Pink” — there will be a lot of marketing gimmicks or so-called causes that identify with the Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but do not really support the cause of breast cancer research or patient support.

Photo: Miguel Á. Padriñán via Pexels

You might be asking why I’m writing to you; I just want you to know that I admire your courage.

Five years ago, my mother was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. I accompanied her to an adoration chapel, not knowing that she was carrying a big revelation that would later on have a big impact on the family. When she came out, she was crying; I asked her why, but she didn’t respond.

When we reached the gate of our village, she told me something. “Look after your siblings.” At that moment, my heart broke. I knew something was wrong. Later that night, she called me and my three other siblings together. “My doctor said I have breast cancer.” We all immediately started to cry.

She didn’t cry, probably because she exhausted all of her tears while in the chapel. She just told us to love each other and be strong no matter what happens.

When my mother started her chemotherapy, I noticed that she became grumpier and had difficulties hearing. I was also a short-tempered son at times, always mad when we had a misunderstanding.

A couple of months after her diagnosis, my Mama had her left breast removed to prevent the spread of the cancer cells. “I’m less of a woman now,” Mama said, explaining that breasts for her were the most important feature of a woman. It was where I got nutrition and felt the warmth during the earliest times of my life. I didn’t know what to say, actually, but I wanted her to know that losing one or both of her breasts didn’t make her less of a woman. You are and will always be beautiful.

During Mama’s usual hospital rounds, she would meet her “classmates.” She would hear their stories. One time, one of the ladies left the group; the others told Mama that their classmate won her battle. You too might find a newfound friend in the presence of other patients. It’s this connection that fosters hope. There are Facebook groups and communities ready to help you as well.

As a son I can only imagine the physical and emotional pain breast cancer brings. It’s true that breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, and it’s the second leading cause of death among women. But I want you to know that you are a beacon of hope for me, for your family, and for everyone else. But mothers like you are the reason why we’re here. Life wouldn’t be as beautiful without your smile. I just want you to know that you shouldn’t let breast cancer kill your optimism; you should kill it with hope. Breast cancer shouldn’t dictate your life; it’s you who should conquer it with love.

I couldn’t be more excited to see her later this month. It’s been a while. I will shower you with tons of love and kisses. Never forget how proud I am of you. Don’t forget that you’re my inspiration. Don’t forget that I’m with you on this long journey to recovery.

Yours truly,
Andy

READ MORE: The Face of Breast Cancer: Depression and Acceptance

OASIS Breast Cancer Center is open Monday to Friday at 1.30-5.30pm. For more details, please contact OASIS International Hospital at 400 UR OASIS (400 87 62747) or visit them at Building C8, 9 Jiuxianqiao Bei Lu, Chaoyang District 100015 (北京明德医院， 北京市朝阳区酒仙桥北路9号C8栋). You can also scan/extract the QR code.

Photos: Tommy Corey via Flickr, Nationalbreastcancer.org, OASIS International Hospital

See more of my stories here.
Email: andypenafuerte@beijing-kids.com
Web: coolkidandy.wordpress.com
Instagram: @coolkidandy

Did you know we have a family events WeChat group? Join two hundred other internationally-minded families for the latest information on what’s going on in Beijing. Send an email to webeditor@beijing-kids.com with your WeChat ID or add KippWhittaker or anp3rd on WeChat. Please note that readers should confirm with each organizer if events are canceled or scheduled as planned.

Hot Events This Week

WAB Distinguished Speaker Series: Kevin Westgarth, Sep 19
All ages. As the NHL China Games in Beijing approaches, hear from Kevin Westgarth, a Princeton University pre-med student who went on to capture ice hockey’s greatest treasure, the NHL’s Stanley Cup.  Free. Visit www.wab.edu/dss for details. 6-7.30pm. Western Academy of Beijing. No. 10 Laiguangying Dong Lu (WeChat ID: WAB_Chat, 5986 5588, wabinfo@wab.edu) 来广营东路10号

Wandering China’s Trip to Pingyao and Writers’ Competition, Sep 22-25
All ages. Wandering China 观览国际 is organizing an exclusive trip to Shanxi province during the Pingyao International Photography Festival, held every September. Join the adventure and automatically participate in their writer’s competition in which participants will get extraordinary gifts, Pingyao tourism bureau diploma, and exceptional opportunities like having your piece published in Wandering China’s magazine and online platforms. RMB 1,600 per person (fee includes a round-trip train ticket, transportation, admissions fee to scenic spots, English-speaking tour guides, hotel accommodation, dining – 3 breakfast and 2 dinners).  Contact Rose Quan at 139 1152 4254 to sign up. Wandering China 观览国际. Rm 2604, Tower A, U-Space, No 8 Guangqu Rd, Chaoyang (WeChat ID: guanlanzhongguo, 2561696019@qq.com) www.wanderingchina.com 北京朝阳区广渠路8号优士阁A座2604

Sophrology Workshop for Women in Beijing, Sep 23
Adults. Come to spend a Saturday morning in a mindfulness workshop under the guidance of Nathalie Dorbes, mindfulness and stress management practitioner. Practice how to relax, breathe, visualize, and remain yourself, getting rid of stress. Join Nathalie for some deep-rooted connections and a deeper sense of energy to create a balance and harmony for yourself and the people around you. RMB 100, including light snacks. Starts 10.30am. (WeChat ID paulus155) OASIS International Hospital, 9 North Jiuxianqiao Road, Chaoyang District 北京市朝阳区酒仙桥北路9号

The Great Aussie BBQ, Sep 23
All ages. Head over to Dulwich College Beijing for the Great Aussie BBQ. Enjoy Beijing’s cool autumn breeze and be captivated by a thrilling game of AFL where the Beijing Bombers will take on the Shanghai Tigers. The fun does not stop there as visitors will also witness big hits in Beijing Ashes’ cricket match. While everyone munches through fantastic Aussie food and beverages, don’t forget to also try your luck at the raffle for two return tickets to Australia and a Nespresso coffee machine. RMB 200 (for adult members of AustCham Beijing), RMB 250 (for non-members), RMB 100 (for kids under 12), free for kids under 4, RMB 460 (family of 2 adults and 2 kids). Price includes free flow of draught beer, BBQ (steak, lamb chops, burgers, and sausages), return bus from the Australian embassy to Dulwich College Beijing. 11.30am-4.30pm. AustCham Beijing. Dulwich College Beijing 北京德威英国国际学校, 89 Capital Airport Rd, Shunyi (Email events@austcham.org to RSVP)

Fifth Annual Shuangjing Block Party, Sep 23
All ages. The Shuangjing Block Party is back and this year promises to be bigger and better than ever! Now in its 5th year, the Block Party has grown into one of the premier events in Beijing bringing the Chinese and foreign communities together for a day of great food, drinks, and entertainment. There is something for everyone with live music, a bouncy castle, face painting and clowns, international food and drink booths and other interactive events. The organizers are expecting crowds of over 5,000 people this year, making it the biggest and best Block Party ever. Free. 1-6pm. North Pingod, 22 Art Street, Shuangjing

Volunteer Opportunity for Roundabout, Sep 23/27 and Sep 24
All ages. Roundabout invites everyone for a volunteer opportunity in two separate events this week. The setup for the Book Fair at Keystone Academy begins Sep 23 at 1.30pm and the takedown on Sep 27 at 8.30am. The second event is Roundabout’s public sale on Sep 24, with two shifts available (9.45am-12.30pm and 12.15-3pm). To sign up, contact Lily Zhou of Roundabout (WeChat ID: CHOWLZHOU, 150 1018 7653) or Friederike (fhm-wob@t-online.de)

Expat Connection Family Fair & Picnic, Sep 24
All ages. The Expat Connection team invites everyone to their yearly Family Fair & Picnic at the Canadian International School of Beijing. There will be more than 35 different activities, like pony riding, climbing, art coloring and many other activities while also enjoying food and drinks. The event closes with a huge lottery, sending the lucky winners home with a special treat and plenty of memories. Starts 11am. Free entrance. Expat Connection. Canadian International School of Beijing, 38 Liangmaqiao Road, Chaoyang. 中国北京市朝阳区亮马桥路38号(www.china-expat-connection.com)

The Fifth Annual China Women’s Film Festival, until Sep 24
Adults. See dozens of films and a Q&A with acclaimed Dutch filmmaker Sunny Bergman at this socially conscious film festival that tackles misogyny in the tech industry, gender conformity in the Middle East, ageism in the beauty industry and more. For a full schedule and list of venues, click here. CWFF.

More Events This Month

Feed Your Mind

UK-China Education Development Forum – British-Style Early Years Education, Sep 19
Adults. The UK Department for International Trade, the British Embassy Beijing, and the China-Britain Business Council invite everyone to the “UK-China Education Development Forum – British-Style Early Years Education” to exchange ideas, share experiences, and explore collaboration opportunities in Early Years Education between the UK and China. Free but needs RSVP before Sep 12. 8.30am-1.30pm. British Chamber of Commerce in China. The St. Regis Beijing (contact Holm Jiang, Events Manager, CBBC: 8525 1111 ext. 366, Holm.Jiang@cbbc.org.cn)

Introduction to Montessori Pedagogy, Sep 20
Adults. The introduction to Montessori pedagogy will be led by Myriam Lapalus. This is a great event for parents, educators, and everyone interested in early childhood development. Open to all but seats are limited. There will be an open discussion and buffet after the event. RMB 30 (for LMMP parents), RMB 80 (for non-LMMP parents). Register before Sep 18 (Mon) and pay in advance via WeChat ID t06021988. 5-6.30pm. LMMP Workshop – 5 Cang Nan Bei Xiang Jia, Dongcheng

INN Shunyi Coffee Morning at BSB, Sep 21
Adults. The British School of Beijing (BSB) Shunyi is hosting the International Newcomers Network (INN) Shunyi coffee morning at the school’s Chatterbox Cafe this month. Join INN for this great opportunity to meet other newcomers and old-times in the Shunyi area! Free. 10am-noon. BSB, Shunyi. www.bsbshunyi.com

BJU Breast Cancer Awareness Talk, Sep 21
Adults. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and to help spread some insight in Beijing and beyond about the illness, Beijing United Family Hospital (BJU) is hosting an educational health talk on Sep 21 at 7pm to discuss breast cancer detection and diagnosis. Click here for more info on what to expect, and how to sign up. Register early to ensure you get a spot, as space is limited to the first 25 people who sign up. As an extra bonus, the first three people to register will have the opportunity to do a private, one-on-one self-check tutorial with United Family New Hope Oncology Center’s oncologist, Dr. Tian. Free. Starts 7pm. Beijing United Family Hospital.

3e TEA TALK: A Parent’s Guide to Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Development of Young Children, Sep 22
For adults. 3e International School’s Tea Talk for September helps parents learn what to expect, and deepen their understanding of the social, emotional, and behavioral development of young children. The workshop will also examine some red flags of behavioral issues and basic principles of positive behavior management.  Presented by Dr. Lynn Turner, Lead Psychologist and Educational Psychologist, LIH Olivia’s Place. Free, but parents need to email community@3einternationalschool.org to register. 9-10.30am. 3e International School. No. 9-1 Jiangtai Xilu, Chaoyang (6437 3344)朝阳区将台西路9-1号

Keystone Academy Primary School Open House, Sep 23
All ages. Keystone Academy invite everyone for their Primary School Open House on Sep 23, from 9.30am to 12.30pm. Come learn about Keystone Academy and tour their campus. There will also be opportunities to visit classrooms and meet with their faculty and students. Click here to register. Keystone Academy. No11, An Fu Street, Houshayu, Shunyi District

Most Likely to Succeed Documentary Screening at WAB, Sep 26
All ages. Visit Western Academy of Beijing on Sep 26, for an exclusive screening of Most Likely to Succeed, an award-winning documentary about why schools need to transform to meet the needs of the future. The film asks tough questions about why conventional schooling struggles to make learning meaningful for students. The screening is open to the public for no charge. Long-press and extract the QR code to sign up. Free. 6-7.30pm. Western Academy of Beijing.

Work Your Body Out

Zouk Dance Workshop, Sep 23-24
Adults. Whether you’re a beginner who has never danced before or an experienced dancer ready for your next challenge, the Zouk Dance Workshop is an opportunity you surely don’t want to miss! Alexey and Anna, Zouk masters from Russian will be in Beijing for a fantastic 6 hour Zouk workshop. RMB 250 for 3.5-hour full course and needs registration (click/tap here to register). 3.30-5pm (beginners’ course), 5-7pm (Foundation level 2). Zouk Beijing FM. (WeChat ID: ashish578675, 152 1080 6525)

Two-Day Flamenco Workshop, Oct 3-4
Adults. Beginner level flamenco aficionados, it’s your time to step up. On Oct 3-4, Casa Flamenco will hold a two-day course, including flamenco guitar where you can learn basic guitar chords to accompany with dance and rhythm control; the flamenco dance that will teach you moves, steps, and rhythms by ear; and flamenco drum (cajon) that will help you learn flamenco beats using a wooden box. RMB 600 (1 course); RMB 900 (2 courses); RMB 1,200 (3 courses). Flamenco guitar course is 10.30am-12.30pm; flamenco dance 1-3pm; flamenco drum 3-5pm. Casa Flamenco. Qi Jia Yuan Diplomatic Resident Compound. (WeChat, WhatsApp, and contact number: 13910914251)

Tango Beginner Series at Lama Temple Area, Oct 3-5
Adults. For tango lovers, head to the Lama Temple area on Oct 3-5 and join Beijing Bilingual Tango’s tango drill with a visiting Argentinean master. Then on Oct 8, there’s a new beginner series with will start twice a week on Sundays and Thursdays. RMB 150 (Oct 8 beginner series, single lesson); RMB 800 (early bird discounted price for 8 lessons if paying before Sep 25); RMB 960 (regular price after Sep 25). Sunday session 1.30-3pm at Hotcat Club (No. 46 Fangjiahutong, Dongcheng District, 东城区方家胡同46号, near Beixinqiao, Yonghegong Lama Temple, and Andingmen stations on Line 2). Thursday session 8.30-10pm at Lama Temple Colorful Studio (雍和宫彩色教室  东城区东滨河路雍和航星园37号楼201) Beijing Bilingual Tango. (WeChat ID: BJBTango, 412143092@qq.com)

Cool Culture

Mooncake Making, Sep 23
All ages. The 16th of 24 solar terms are characterized by the autumn equinox, or qiūfēn (秋分), which also means that Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival is approaching. When the day comes, the daytime and the night-time are the same. Moreover, in the ancient times, Chinese worshipped the moon as a god and were preparing many food and sacrifices. But do you know why we eat “moon” cakes then? In this activity, you will create a mooncake, which you can fill with plenty of delicious flavors, such as lotus or bean paste. RMB 100. 7-9pm.

The Divine Michelangelo at the Bird’s Nest Cultural Centre, until Sep 30
All ages. In cooperation with Italy’s Buonarroti Museum, the Bird’s Nest Cultural Centre is displaying over a hundred works by famed Renaissance artist Michelangelo, including sculptures, paintings, sketches and other masterpieces by the sculptor of David and the Sistine Chapel painter. For more information or to buy tickets, click here. RMB 80, RMB 40 for students, RMB 160 for a family pass. 10am-9pm. Beijing National Stadium (Bird’s Nest).

Fun Fairs and Outdoor Activities

October Holiday Camp for Kids: Adventure Camp, Sep 30-Oct 8
Kids 7+. This upcoming National Holiday, Imagine brings a new adventure for the little ones of the house (age 7+): Indoor ski (室内滑雪), climbing (室内攀岩), parkour (跑酷), Civilization Game (文明帝国游戏), and Adventure Park (奇妙探险乐园). This camp is the perfect choice for parents who want to stay in Beijing but are looking for outdoor activities that are creative and challenging at the same time. RMB 900 per day for indoor ski; RMB 700 per day for climbing or parkour; RMB 750 per day for Civilization Game or Adventure Park. Click here for more information about each activity. 8am-6pm. Imagine. (WeChat ID: Imagine24X7service, 5739 4933)

Photos: Wikimedia Commons, courtesy of organizers

See more of my stories here.
Email: andypenafuerte@beijing-kids.com
Web: coolkidandy.wordpress.com
Instagram: @coolkidandy

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and to help spread some insight in Beijing and beyond about the illness, Beijing United Family Hospital is hosting an educational health talk on September 21 (7pm) to discuss breast cancer detection and diagnosis.

One of the best and easiest methods you can use towards both the prevention and the early detection of breast cancer is to educate yourself about the signs and symptoms of this dangerous disease.

We can’t imagine how it must feel to have to undergo such a serious threat so far away from the familiarity of home. But now more than ever, Beijing has the resources needed to give you or a loved one the help and support needed to get through this difficult time. To explain, BJU will be enlisting the help of a breast cancer survivor who will talk about her experience of battling the disease as an expat. Throughout the event, you can also hear practical advice from specialists, who will discuss topics ranging from self-examination to the process of getting treated.

Check out their WeChat posting for more info on what to expect, and how to sign up here and register early to ensure you get a spot, as space is limited to the first 25 people who sign up. As an extra bonus, the first three people to register will have the opportunity to do a private, one-on-one self-check tutorial with United Family New Hope Oncology Center’s oncologist, Dr. Tian.

Through registering, you will also be entered into a raffle, featuring a variety of prizes including a Well-Woman Care Rose Package from Beijing United Family Hospital, which is a comprehensive health assessment for women which includes a breast cancer screening for those over the age of 40.

Photo: naturalsociety.com

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, a worldwide annual campaign involving thousands of organizations, to highlight the importance of breast awareness, education, and research. Breast cancer is now the number one killer of Chinese women. A lack of awareness about breast cancer and low screening rates leave many women discovering it at late stages, yet with early detection many lives can be saved. Although we’re nearing the end of October, continued awareness of all cancers must continue if we hope to improve survival rates.

Green-T House recently hosted a wonderful event called “Diva Day”. Their beautiful space in Shunyi saw vendors selling unique items, ranging from clothing to jewelry, with Green-T serving up some of their finest cuisine. The day wasn’t all about shopping as it also saw the launch of the new Wheels for Life mobile health bus. Wheels for Life is part of the United Family Charity Fund, which provides free medical care, services and treatment to over 50 partner organizations.

With the launch of Wheels for Life, women and children living and working in orphanages and migrant schools will receive onsite medical visits to provide preventative healthcare, immunizations, and physical examinations. It’s also one of the first mobile health buses in the world to provide breast cancer screening to underserved women, using GE Healthcare Automated Breast Ultrasound Screening (ABUS).

The mobile unit will begin by "caring for the carers" those women already devoted to foster homes and migrant schools around Beijing. Over the coming months the women will receive screenings and support, providing them with access to preventative services they simply do not have. In addition, the charity fund will provide a financial contribution towards the medical expenses of those women that may be diagnosed with breast cancer.

During the soft launch period the bus will be operating four times per month. Each time they go out to offer breast cancer screenings, they hope to be able to screen 10-15 women. The goal is 500 women per year. The cost to run the bus depends on how often it goes out. One day per week or four times per month and the cost is around RMB 50,000. This covers gas, driver, consumables, doctors, nurses, program manager, IT, and utilities. The doctors and nurses time is subsidized by UFH so their costs are at a reduced rate.

The Wheels for Life program needs funding and volunteers. One volunteer is needed each time the bus goes out, to help register the patients and keep the flow of patients going. They also need volunteers other days of the week to help with preparations, planning, paper work, newsletter stories, and website updates. If you would like to show your support for the work and the mission of this invaluable program, you can donate online at www.unitedfoundation.org. If you would like to volunteer with the team, please contact 5927 7285, WFL@unitedfoundation.org.

beijingkids Shunyi Correspondent Sally Wilson moved to Beijing in 2010 from the UK with her husband and son. Her daughter was born here in 2011 and both her kids keep her happily busy. In her spare time, Sally loves to stroll through Beijing’s hutongs and parks. She is a (most of the time) keen runner and loves reading: books, magazines, news, and celeb websites – anything really. Sally is also a bit of a foodie and loves trying out new restaurants.

Photos: North Charleston (Flickr) and courtesy of Wheels for Life

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is not only about getting the annual check-up at discounted rates at hospitals around town or running to raise funds. It’s important to get information as well,  recently opened Sanfine International Hospital and Catherine De France Hair Salon will having a Beauty and Health mini fair on October 24 from 2-5pm at Sanfine Hospital on the 5th floor. The pair will be collaborating with Calin Fashion Academy to help both women and men indulge in variety of pampering activities.

This free event offers the use Sanfine’s state of the art facilities especially technology that can assess your skin, clean deep pores and even remove unwanted. Hair will be done by the stylist from Catherine De France, and makeup done by Calin Academy. There are lucky prizes in store and gift bags to take home with you.

Scan the QR code and RSVP to the event by typing  “Look Good, Feel Great”

Photos: topnews.in, Sanfine