Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has donated more than AED70,000 to assist the work of Breast Cancer Arabia in providing support to women with breast cancer.

Aubrey Tiedt, Etihad Airways’ Vice President Guest Services, and Linden Coppell, Etihad Airways’ Head of Sustainability, presented the cheque to Dr Richard Reyes, Medical Director of Breast Cancer Arabia.

“We are very pleased once again to support breast cancer awareness initiatives within our local community. We believe it is important to raise awareness within the UAE and to help provide the necessary treatment and care to those women who don’t have the means to pay for it,” said Ms Tiedt.

Etihad Airways recognises the global breast cancer awareness month in October each year with a program to raise awareness of breast cancer among the staff and in the community. Last October the airline ran a free breast cancer screening and mammography campaign for company employees and spouses, in partnership with Burjeel Hospital, which provided a mobile screening unit.

Many of Etihad Airways’ staff were involved in fund raising activities and the airline’s Guest Services team organised healthy cooking classes and held a pink themed bake sale. Funds were also raised through the sale of pink ribbons and bracelets and through staff donations.

The airline has allocated the funds to Breast Cancer Arabia in recognition of the organisation’s efforts in raising awareness about breast cancer and treatment options, as well as providing funds directly to help in the treatment and aftercare of those with breast cancer.

Breast Cancer Arabia works with treatment facilities that provide discounted rates to patients requiring treatment.

Dr Richard Reyes said: “We are grateful for the donation provided by Etihad Airways to support Breast Cancer Arabia. These funds will be used to help women who are simply not able to afford the care they need and thus giving them a greater chance of surviving this life threatening disease.”

According to the UAE Ministry of Health, cancer is the second-leading cause of death for women in the UAE, with breast cancer the most type common of cancer.  

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