Jackie Jackson, from Enderby BC, was a Breast Cancer Survivor. After a mastectomy, Jackie was fortunate to be able to purchase a prosthesis and to begin her healing journey. When visiting in Mexico, Jackie learned there was no such help available for Mexican women. She decided she would bring down prosthetic supplies from Canada to the women in Nayarit. In 1996 Jackie gave away 28 prosthetics. Before long, other women also on holiday in Nayarit, learned what she was doing and decided to give her a hand. Unknowingly to all, Jackie and this small group were planting the seeds that would eventually grow into the Cancer de Mama Clinic!
In 2009, the Clinic moved into the La Penita RV Park, where it grew steadily for the next seven years. Wanting to be more deeply embedded in the Mexican community, in 2016 the Clinic successfully transitioned to its new home, in the Senior Centre in downtown La Penita.
Now, more than 200 Mexican, Canadian and American volunteers annually contribute their time, energy and financial support to make the Cancer de Mama Clinic the thriving success that it is today. From very humble beginnings, each year more than 500 Breast Cancer Survivors are now helped at our three-day Clinic held every February!
Sadly, Jackie passed away in November 2018 and is missed by many. Her initiative and kind generosity impacted the lives of countless Mexican women, and she will always be remembered with fondness and gratitude.