Panama City launched its annual Panama cancer awareness campaign Monday night with the illumination of the Presidential Palace, as First Lady Maricel Cohen de Mulino unveiled a full calendar of October fundraising and screening events. The ceremony, held September 29, set the stage for a month of activities aimed at promoting early detection and supporting oncology patients.
“A timely diagnosis can save your life,” Cohen de Mulino said during the presentation, emphasizing the campaign’s core message ahead of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Sandwichatón Tradition Kicks Off Cancer Fundraising Efforts
Earlier that morning, volunteers assembled 900 sandwich kits with support from Super Extra supermarket chain and staff from various government ministries. The initiative, known as the Sandwichatón, marked its third consecutive year and delivered meals directly to the National Oncology Institute for patients and their families.
“We took them to the oncology institute to share with patients and relatives,” the first lady explained. The event has become a signature opening gesture for the month-long campaign, combining community volunteerism with direct patient support.
Ballet Performance and Charity Walk Anchor October Schedule
The centerpiece fundraising event will be a special performance of The Sleeping Beauty ballet at the National Theatre on Thursday, October 22 at 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $20 to $65, with proceeds earmarked for a specific medical device.
Cohen de Mulino identified the equipment as a Deep Oscillation Personal Pro, designed for oncology patient care. The Ministry of Culture is supporting the production. “The funds raised from this performance will be used to acquire equipment,” she stated.
A charity walk, or caminatón, follows on Sunday, October 25 starting at 6:00 a.m. along the Cinta Costera. Participants can purchase commemorative t-shirts for 12 balboas. “I want to invite everyone to buy their shirt and walk together,” Cohen de Mulino said.
Screening Data and Equipment Acquisitions Show Progress
The first lady reported that 312 PSA tests have been administered this year for prostate cancer screening. She also cited 173 positive breast cancer cases, though the specific program or reporting period for that figure was not detailed in her remarks.
A recent mega-bingo event benefiting the National Oncology Institute raised enough money to purchase new tumor monitoring and control equipment. “Thanks to this activity we managed to raise funds to acquire new equipment for tumor monitoring and control,” she said.
Commemorative phone cards from Más Móvil, priced at $5 and $6, will also be sold throughout the country to spread prevention messaging. “During October we will continue adding actions,” Cohen de Mulino assured attendees.
The Palace lighting ceremony serves as the visual anchor for the campaign, transforming the seat of government into a beacon for cancer prevention awareness across Panama City. The month’s activities combine cultural events, physical activity, and direct fundraising to support oncology patients and expand screening access nationwide.