The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre has received a major boost in its push to upgrade breast cancer screening, following a donation of EC $202,500 from the CIBC ComTrust Foundation on Tuesday.
Hospital officials, CIBC Caribbean representatives, and the Ministry of Health attended the handover ceremony in St. John’s, marking a significant step toward securing a new mammogram machine that will enhance early detection for thousands of women—and men—across Antigua and Barbuda.
SLBMC Medical Director Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis said the contribution will have lasting national impact, noting that more than 49,000 women are expected to benefit during their lifetimes. She praised the partnership as an example of how public–private collaboration can transform healthcare.
CIBC Caribbean Country Head and ComTrust Foundation Trustee Ladesa James-Williams said the bank responded immediately to the hospital’s request, citing its long-standing commitment to cancer care through initiatives like Walk for the Cure.
Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph thanked the foundation for easing the financial burden of maintaining and replacing critical hospital equipment, stressing that socialized healthcare requires shared responsibility.
SLBMC’s Marketing and Communications Head, Salma Crump, noted that CIBC has supported the hospital for more than a decade and that this year’s PINKparty campaign raised nearly EC $90,000 toward the same goal.
Raffle for the Cure continues until November 30, with a formal handover of Walk for the Cure proceeds scheduled for World Cancer Day on February 4, 2026.
Thank you CIBC. this will surely go a long way in helping others
Too many families here know this pain. Early screening is hope thank you to everyone involved
Healthcare can’t fall on government alone. Love seeing real partnership in action
A functioning, modern mammogram machine is essential for early detection. This could genuinely improve outcomes for a lot of women across the island. Thank you CIBC
Grateful to see corporate support in such a critical area. This donation will touch thousands of families
Excellent example of corporate responsibility. More companies should follow CIBC’s lead
This is exactly the kind of corporate contribution that benefits the whole community.