04/17/2026
Almost nine years ago, Hematology and Cancer Untold (HACU) partnered with the Well Woman Clinic for the Mammogram Initiative. What began as a dream has now become a reality.
On Thursday, April 9, 2026, we held a pink ribbon cutting ceremony for the Iris Mammography Suite and officially launched a mammography machine at the Well Woman Clinic in Freetown, Sierra Leone. This marks a major milestone in advancing breast cancer detection and women’s healthcare in the country.
This brand new mammography machine was fully funded by HACU, and we proudly congratulate the Well Woman Clinic on 20 years of outstanding service to women’s health in Sierra Leone.
Among the dignitaries attending were Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, who stated “To the women of Sierra Leone… Your health matters. Your lives matter. Please come forward and get screened, and encourage others to do the same. Early Detection could save your life.”
Also speaking at the event, World Health Organization (WHO) Representative Mr. George Ameh described the launch as “historic,” emphasizing that early detection is a cornerstone of WHO’s global strategy. He noted that the WHO had a global goal of ensuring that “60% of all cancer suspected cases are detected early,” and that infrastructure like the Well Woman Clinic’s mammography suite will help bring that vision to fruition.
During her remarks, a breast cancer survivor expressed gratitude to the Well Woman Clinic for their care and support during her diagnosis. She also shared her heartfelt excitement about the mammography machine and the opportunity it provides for early detection for women moving forward.
The ceremony concluded with an official ribbon cutting led by the Minister of Health, followed by the unveiling of the new machine and a comprehensive overview, including a Q&A session, presented by Biomedical Engineer Dr. Dinsie Williams.
It is difficult to fully express the gratitude in our hearts, as none of this would have been possible without the incredible community that carried this vision forward.
We are deeply grateful to:
- Every donor; individuals, community organizations, and business owners, for your kindness and generosity. Your unwavering belief over the past 9 years, made this possible and we do not take it for granted.
- All of the cancer survivors and thrivers who showed up whenever we called, and with remarkable courage and generosity of spirit, shared their powerful stories of hope at our fundraising events.
- Families who have endured the unimaginable pain of losing loved ones to breast cancer, yet in the midst of their grief, found the strength to stand with others and support this mission.
- Members of the Board, the leadership team, and the entire staff of the Well Woman Clinic, whose dedication, and spirit of collaboration made this possible.
- All of the healthcare professionals and technical experts for your diligence and candor, and the countless consulting hours you volunteered from procurement through training to help ensure a successful outcome.
- All dignitaries and guests who honored us with their presence at the launch, both in person and virtually.
Friends, this milestone is a testament to what is possible when compassion, courage, and community come together.
Because of you, so many more women will have a fighting chance through access to early detection.
Thank You. Tenki Tenki!
