Prime Minister Edi Rama shared today on social media the messages of three sports champions — in athletics, weightlifting, and boxing — while reiterating the “ongoing call to get the free mammogram.”

Athlete Luiza Gega, European Champion in Athletics, said that “Pink October is a reminder for all of us that health is the most important race we can win.”

“I’m used to always running toward goals, but no victory has meaning without self-care. A breast check isn’t fear — it’s strength; it’s a small step that can save lives. So make it part of your routine, take care of yourself, run for life,” said Gega.

Enkileda Carja, European Champion in Weightlifting, joined this appeal to all women and girls to take advantage of the free mammograms during Pink October, adding that “in weightlifting, we learn every day how to lift more, but there is one weight we must share — the weight of responsibility for our health.”

“Pink October reminds me that strength isn’t physical; it’s the courage to face fear, to not neglect your health, to care for the body that keeps you standing every day. Do it for yourself, for those who love you, for life. A small check today can save you from a heavy burden tomorrow,” said Carja.

“October is the month when we remember that strength isn’t measured only in the ring, but in the courage to face ourselves. As a boxer, I fight every day to be strong both mentally and physically. But the most important duty is the one toward our health,” said Esmeralda Novruzaj, Bronze Medal winner.

She stated that “breast cancer doesn’t choose age, profession, or lifestyle, which is why regular checkups are a round that each of us must win.”

The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has extended its awareness campaign not only throughout October but across the entire year, through stationary mammography services and mobile units in various cities around the country.

Additionally, through the “e-Albania” portal, every woman or girl can choose the time and place for her mammogram by scheduling it in advance.

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“Today, I want to share with you the strength and inspiration I received from the women of Fier, who, through their touching stories, showed us how they have won the battle against breast cancer and now enjoy good health. Their stories are a powerful reminder: don’t neglect your health, get regular check-ups because it’s worth living,” says the minister.

Meanwhile, one of the women featured in the video shares how, through regular check-ups with her doctor, she got the breast cancer detected in time and now enjoys good health after undergoing the procedure.

“Two and a half years ago, I went for a check-up with the doctor, and it turned out I had breast cancer. I was a bit scared, but then I consulted with the doctor and underwent surgery. I urge all women not to neglect the period check-ups, to go to the doctor, and not to feel ashamed, because a visit today is worth a lot for the future,” she says.

Another woman shares how a routine check-up with her doctor resulted in her being diagnosed with breast cancer over time.

“In 2016, I had some concerns with my breast and shoulder. I went to my GP, had a breast ultrasound, and was diagnosed with non-cancerous tumour of the breast. Meanwhile, I continued my annual check-ups. Two years ago, I underwent surgery to remove the tumour, and I get a mammogram and ultrasound once a year. We should not shun the medical visits and check-ups because it’s worth living for our children, for our lives, as we are still young. Life is beautiful,” she concludes her story, along with a message for all women and girls across the country.

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