Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre Hosts Landmark Cancer Symposium Honouring Late Dr. Albert Duncan

The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) has marked a significant chapter in its medical and educational journey with the successful staging of its first-ever Multidisciplinary Cancer Symposium, held in honour of the late Dr. Albert Duncan, the hospital’s first Medical Director.

The one-day symposium, themed “Innovative Cancer Care: Precision, Prevention & Personalized Treatment,” brought together a distinguished panel of local, regional, and international medical experts.

Participants explored groundbreaking advances in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, emphasizing the power of collaboration in improving patient outcomes.

The event signifies the evolution of SLBMC’s former Breast Cancer Symposium — a pioneering initiative championed by Dr. Duncan. This year’s expanded focus reflects his enduring vision of a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to cancer care in Antigua and Barbuda.

“Hosting this symposium is both a celebration of Dr. Duncan’s vision and a continuation of his legacy,” said Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis, SLBMC’s current Medical Director. “He believed in continuous learning and collaboration.

As a hospital, we are proud to build on that foundation ensuring that excellence and innovation remain at the heart of everything we do.”

Christine Joseph, Administrative Assistant to the Medical Director and Event Coordinator, described the symposium’s success as a testament to the hospital’s teamwork and dedication.

“It takes a village to make something like this happen,” she said. “Months of planning, long hours, and seamless collaboration across departments but the outcome reminds us why we do it. Every discussion and partnership formed during this event brings us closer to better patient care.”

Salma Crump, Head of Marketing & Communications at SLBMC, who spearheaded sponsorship and partnership initiatives, expressed gratitude to corporate partners and supporters who contributed to the event’s success.

“Events like this thrive because of partnership,” Crump stated. “We’re thankful for every organization and individual who believes in our mission to improve healthcare. Their support allows us to create platforms for education, collaboration, and innovation all of which strengthen the care we deliver to our nation.”

The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre reaffirmed its commitment to continuing educational and professional development initiatives aimed at fostering collaboration among healthcare providers, enhancing clinical expertise, and advancing the quality and accessibility of care across Antigua and Barbuda.