IRVINE’S MP has expressed her delight after the project she established to improve breast cancer care in Palestine was shortlisted for this year’s Scottish Health Awards.

Dr Philippa Whitford, MP for Central Ayrshire is a finalist at the annual awards which celebrate exceptional achievements of unsung heroes within health and social care services in Scotland and the project is one of three finalists in the Global Citizenship Award category.

Commenting on the news, Dr Whitford said: “Having worked as a surgeon in Gaza in the early 1990s, I returned in 2016 on a fact-finding trip as an MP with the organisation Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP).

“During the visit, I saw the lack of organised services for women with breast cancer, many of whom had to undergo more drastic surgery then was necessary because access to radiotherapy was extremely limited.

“Following discussions, MAP agreed to support me to set up a project to improve breast cancer care in Gaza and the West Bank, from diagnosis through treatment to after care, and I set about recruiting a team of Scottish-based specialists, including surgeon Suzanne Elgammal, a former colleague of mine at Crosshouse.

“For three years now, this team of surgeons, radiologists, oncologists and breast care nurses have taken part in annual training visits to Palestine and provided treatment advice through weekly video meetings, and the difference in diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer patients is remarkable.

“I am immensely proud of all that has been achieved by both my Scottish and Gazan colleagues and I believe there is no doubt they merit their shortlisting.

“Sadly, of course, this year’s ceremony will be a virtual event but it is nonetheless fantastic for the team’s life-changing work to be recognised in this way.”

Despite experiencing difficulties due to COVID-19 pandemic, work on the project is continuing as best it can.

Anyone who would like to support MAP’s work to improve breast cancer care in Palestine can do so at https://www.map.org.uk/donate/donation

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