Around 20 extraordinary women who are either bravely battling breast cancer or celebrating life after recovery were welcomed to an intimate and empowering Pink High Tea recently, in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Held at InterContinental Bahrain, the evening was thoughtfully curated to shine a light on their resilience, courage and sisterhood, offering a safe and heartfelt space for women from different walks of life united by a deeply personal journey.
Guests took part in an art session led by local artist Madhumika Sankar, giving them the opportunity to express their emotions through creativity in a calming and supportive setting.
In a symbolic show of solidarity, a group of female bikers made a powerful entrance as they rode up to the hotel – revving their engines in unity and strength – standing by one of their fellow riders, Anne Schumacher, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in February.
InterContinental Bahrain marketing director Priya Shankar, who is also a member of the female bikers’ group, described the evening as far more than just a gathering. “It was a heartfelt tribute to bravery, hope and community,” she said, adding that to see the women laugh, share and paint together was deeply moving.
“As one of the bikers who rode up in support, it was a proud moment to celebrate these real-life warriors who continue to inspire everyone.”
Ms Schumacher, who has been unable to ride her bike in more than a year, told the GDN that seeing her fellow female bikers arrive in support ‘meant the absolute world’ to her.
“I heard the motorcycles and never imagined it would be Priya and the girls; it was very emotional. I haven’t ridden since my hernia surgery last November, followed by the cancer diagnosis this year, so seeing them show up in pink just to celebrate me was a beautiful gesture.
“It truly reflects the bond we share as a women’s biker group.”
The Bahraini-American, who has lived in the kingdom for more than 36 years, was diagnosed with Stage One breast cancer on Valentine’s Day.
“After my hernia surgery, I stayed bruised for a long time, so I googled it and saw it could be a sign of cancer.
“I hadn’t done a check-up in four years, so I booked one, and thank God I did, as they found a small tumour.”
By February 23, the mother-of-four was diagnosed with cancer, something no one ever wants to hear.
She underwent surgery to remove the tumour in her left breast followed by five sessions of radiation and four sessions of chemotherapy at King Hamad University Hospital.
“I was lucky it was caught early, so the treatment was mostly preventative to stop it returning. It is a journey I wouldn’t wish on anyone, but the support in Bahrain has been incredible,” she said.
She also praised the InterContinental Bahrain event for giving women a platform to share their stories and connect.
“Even with a strong support system, the mental battle is difficult. I don’t want anyone to go through this but having others to relate to is a blessing. You realise everyone’s journey is different.”
She stressed that early screening is essential, pointing out that she had no symptoms and felt nothing wrong.
“It is also important to say that breast cancer can affect anyone, including men. It is important to pay attention to any changes in your body and if you feel something is off, get checked. Early detection really makes a difference,” she added.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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