On October 26, ten YES alumni in the West Bank gathered at the Amideast office in Ramallah to observe Pink October (Breast Cancer Awareness Month) and show solidarity with the Palestinian women fighting breast cancer. Their battle involves not only the struggle against cancer but also the fight for equal access to healthcare, against societal stigma, and for self-confidence and a positive self-image.

The alumni began the day by watching a documentary titled “The Edge of Death”, which discusses the challenges Palestinians face in accessing cancer treatment in Jerusalem. Many Palestinians are denied permits to the only local facility where they can receive chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Others may receive a permit, but their family members, who provide crucial support, are not granted the same privilege. Tragically, some Palestinians only obtain their clearance days after they have lost their battle against cancer and passed away.

The documentary also addresses the societal stigma associated with cancer in the Palestinian community, where the disease is often linked to bad luck and death. It also highlights numerous cases of women who have struggled with their body image and faced financial obstacles to securing reconstructive surgery after undergoing mastectomies.

These topics were discussed in a reflection session held by the YES alumni, where they brainstormed ways to lighten the burden for Palestinian breast cancer patients. Some alumni shared personal stories about their loved ones' battles with cancer in a trust and support circle designed to uplift their peers.

Following this, Nidal Mataweh '18, a medical student, delivered a 30-minute presentation on the risk factors for breast cancer from a medical perspective. He also explained the World Health Organization guidelines for breast cancer screening and emphasized the importance of self-examination and early detection for improving health outcomes.

The YES alumni then enjoyed a pizza dinner while continuing their discussions and making pink ribbons to express their solidarity with all breast cancer patients.

Omar Al-Mallah ‘23 expressed, "It was highly informative, and it encouraged me to ask the women in my life to start screening for breast cancer immediately."

Nidal Mataweh (YES 2017-2018, West Bank, placed by YFU in Charleston, WV)

Omar Almallah (YES 2022-2023, West Bank, placed by BFF in Mt. Shasta, CA)