From the Editor's Desk Guest Editor, Cecil Godwin |
|
There are literacy organizations working in most communities. On Fogo Island, we have a community-based organization called the Fogo Island Literacy Association. In Gander and the Eastern region, we have the Central Eastern Regional Office. On a provincial level there are two organizations, The Literacy Development Council (LDC) of Newfoundland and Labrador on the island portion of the province and, in Labrador, the Labrador Literacy Information and Action Network (LLIAN). All these organizations have common goals and connections and also network at the national level. The LLIAN and LDC share membership with the Movement for Canadian Literacy (MCL). As a learner representative on MCL, 1 serve on a committee called the Learners' Advisory Network. MCL is a non-profit organization that gives a national voice to literacy organizations across the country. It advises and works with the federal government on priority issues for those working to improve literacy. The Learners' Advisory Network is made up of leamers from the provinces and territories. As a committee of learners, it offers a unique perspective on literacy issues affecting all Canadians. Through practical research, advisory services and advocacy of the network, it links adult learners throughout Canada, helps groups use clear language, and promotes support for adult literacy programs. For more information, you may contact: The Movement for Canadian Literacy |
According to recent statistics, breast cancer is the leading type of cancer in Canadian women, excluding nonmelanoma skin cancer. Surprisingly, some women still have difficulty in accessing accurate and understandable information. Information in everyday language is especially important for women who have low literacy skills. Therefore, it is important for health professionals to provide a literacy friendly environment for the Newfoundland population who need easy-to-read material The Canadian Cancer Society, Newfoundland & Labrador Division, in conjunction with the Atlantic Breast Cancer Information Project, has produced a plain language breast cancer resource for women who have low literacy skills. It consists of a pamphlet and audiocassette entitled, "Do you have a lump or change in your breast?" The pamphlet and audio cassette guide the reader through the steps involved from discovering a lump or change in her breast to seeking medical advice and treatment. This resource is encouraging and reassuring. It encourages the woman to visit her doctor while at the same time reassures that most women who discover a lump or change in their breast do not have cancer. In addition, it encourages her to ask questions and provides pictures and explanations in simple terms of some of the procedures she may encounter. We believe that taking the mystery out of the examination process will help women be more aware and understand the steps involved in diagnosing breast cancer. It offers women the knowledge to be active participants in their own care. If you have any questions or require further information, please call Jacqueline Campbell at (709) 753-6703. The Society's Cancer Information Centre can
provide information and answer questions concerning cancer.Anyone can call,
including cancer patients and their loved ones, the general public and
healthcare professionals.If they don't have the answer, they will find it for
you. |
Do You Have a Lump or Change in Your Breast?