The CIBC Walk for the Cure took place on Saturday, October 25, 2025, starting at 5:30 a.m. The walk began from the CIBC Caribbean car park in Road Town. Photo:Facebook

Health and Social Development Minister Hon. Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) has emphasized the need for increased cancer awareness and early detection to save lives. Photo: Facebook

Fabian S. Devonish, the current Country Head (General Manager) for CIBC Caribbean in the Virgin Islands, Health and Social Development Minister Hon. Vincent O. Wheatley,President of the BVI Cancer Society is Gloria A. Fahie at this morning's cancer walk. Photo: Facebook

In an exclusive interview with Virgin Islands News Online (VINO), he shared his thoughts following his participation in the CIBC Walk for the Cure, which took place on Saturday, October 25, 2025. Commencing at 5:30 AM,  the walk began from the CIBC Caribbean car park in Road Town.

"I was very pleased to take part in the event. I was up at the crack of dawn to make sure I was there at 5:30 to walk. I think there were about 150 people present, and I agree to participate because it's more than just supporting the walk; it was supporting the greater cause of cancer awareness.’’ 

Awareness saves lives

He referenced the alarming rate of cancer in the Virgin Islands, saying, "As we all know, cancer, the cancer rates are high, and they predict it to be a double by 2050. However, awareness saves lives. The only way we can detect cancers, the greater chance of rectifying the issue."

He noted that the leading cancers in men are prostate and colon, and in women, breast cancer.

"Cancer is one of the leading causes, but only detection and diagnosis save lives. I thought it was important enough for myself as a minister for health to show up in support of this initiative, to make sure persons understand the need to go and get yourself screened regularly, every year, particularly high-risk groups."

Hon Wheatley added that women do not have to die from breast cancer or cervical cancer and men do not have to die from prostate and colon cancer.

"Early detection, and, of course, awareness of what to do, is so important," he reiterated. 

He expressed his support for initiatives that emphasise the importance of early detection, diagnosis, and treatment.

"I was very pleased to join over 100 people today in supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month."

At the walk, Governor Daniel Pruce and Fabian S. Devonish, the current Country Head (General Manager) for CIBC Caribbean in the Virgin Islands, were also present.

CIBC Caribbean is a major sponsor of this initiative.