The sound of whirring machines fills the room as the small team fastidiously operates, one person directing the needle in place while another carefully calculates a measurement. They’re putting together something that has the potential to increase breast cancer survival rates in South Africa, where it’s estimated that 1 in every 26 women are at risk of being diagnosed. But the group at work aren’t scientists or health professionals. Rather, the all-women team of designers and seamstresses is in the process of manufacturing a bra that promotes self-examination and early detection.
One of them is Diane Schonegevel. Having lost her cousin at an early age to breast cancer, she was already personally invested in raising awareness. So when Schonegevel – who has over 30 years of bra design experience – was approached by Check Know Prevent, a breast cancer awareness NGO founded by Jenny De Oliveira, it was kismet. Schonegevel now works alongside them to manufacture high-quality bras that are embedded with vital information. These include how to self-examine, what symptoms to look out for, and if necessary, where to seek help. While information exists online and in books and pamphlets, regular examinations are not part of many people’s routines. Months and years may go by before symptoms start to show – often when it is too late. By simply adding a reminder to an item of clothing that’s regularly used, the bras serve a dual function, providing both physical support and a daily reminder to check your breasts.
The team operates out of a small factory, funded by Mitchells Plain resident Valerie Theys and built on top of her house. Theys herself is currently fighting cancer but continues to work on the machines while employing 10 other seamstresses. Almost all of the women have known someone affected by the disease. And while breast cancer does not discriminate, the local healthcare system does. “For those living in poorer communities, access to treatment can be costly if not detected earlier,” Schonegevel says. That’s why Check Know Prevent combines the sale of bras with bra donation drives in schools. For every five bras sold, one is gifted to a high school student in lower-income areas.
Alongside the distribution, the team runs informational workshops that involve qualified health professionals who can conduct examinations. “We like to focus on education, having nurses there, educating you on breast cancer so that you can pass the message on,” Schonegevel says. “By educating people to stay a step ahead, we can save lives.” Recognising that the prevalence of the disease and the rapid rate at which it can deteriorate if detected late can leave many feeling helpless, the Check Know Prevent team hope to give people the confidence to fight back. “We are empowering women to take full charge of their health,” Schonegevel says.
