Yucatecan Women’s Association Against Cancer: Awareness Doesn’t End With October, AMYCC: Integral and free attention to Yucatecan women with cancer
In 1996, when discussing cancer was still taboo, Asociación de Mujeres Yucatecas Contra el Cáncer, or the Yucatecan Women’s Association Against Cancer (AMYCC) was founded thanks to Enna Victoria Eugenia Rodríguez García de Baqueiro. From the beginning, AMYCC has worked tirelessly on prevention and support for women with breast and cervical cancer, especially those with limited resources and no social security.
AMYCC's mission: Early detection and comprehensive support against breast cancer
Since its inception, AMYCC has emphasized the importance of early detection, which can make all the difference in diagnosis and treatment. The association began as a small support group, offering limited appointments in a space provided by the Servants of Mary Sisters. For 15 years, AMYCC offered only Pap smear tests through volunteer doctors, but their dedication allowed them to expand their services.
Through events like breakfasts and raffles, the association raised funds and, in 2015, was able to purchase an ultrasound machine, allowing them to provide breast exams to women in need. Today, AMYCC has its own location, where, since 2021, they attend to approximately 20 women per day on Mondays and Wednesdays.
High-quality, free breast cancer care
AMYCC’s impact reaches various communities throughout Yucatán. Women from different municipalities organize visits and transportation to the facilities is arranged. Ensuring each woman meets the eligibility criteria, the association verifies that applicants do not have social security before scheduling appointments. Additionally, AMYCC covers the costs of mammograms and coordinates care at the Women's Clinic at Hospital O’Horan to refer them when something is detected. They also work with labs like CJ Montes de Oca Radiology Center and the Pathology Laboratory of the Southeast to ensure the best quality care.
Beyond screenings and medical support, AMYCC offers emotional support at each process stage. About 26 volunteers, some cancer survivors, provide support through talks and workshops like art therapy. They also run the onco-image program, "Luzca Bien, Siéntase Mejor (Look Good, Feel Better)," which helps improve self-esteem and emotional well-being for women undergoing treatment.
Community, education, and breast cancer awareness
The association conducts prevention campaigns and talks in schools and other venues, stressing the importance of self-exams and regular gynecological visits. During October, breast cancer awareness month, volunteers actively participate in events and awareness campaigns. However, AMYCC’s Vice President María Beatriz Ortega emphasizes that the association's work does not end in October: cancer awareness and early detection are causes to be promoted year-round.
AMYCC organizes recreational activities and fundraising events, like yoga classes and informational talks, which not only help raise funds but also create a supportive and empathetic environment. Here, women feel understood, and free from the pity that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis.
Support networks and a message of hope against breast cancer
To support women during their treatment, the association provides wigs for those in need, understanding that hair loss can impact their sense of identity and self-esteem. In the support group, they find comfort and can exchange tips and experiences with volunteers who have faced similar situations, helping them navigate this stage with greater strength.
How you can help in the fight against cancer in Yucatán
AMYCC invites women in the community to join as volunteers, offering their time and skills in various areas. To become part of the team, applicants attend an interview at AMYCC's facilities, where they learn about the activities they can contribute to. Volunteers rotate through different areas to gain experience and provide comprehensive support to the patients.
AMYCC also has strategic donation points across Mérida, making it easy for the community to contribute with in-kind or financial donations. As an authorized nonprofit, AMYCC accepts these contributions at locations like Anáhuac University, Pastelería Doña Tete, La Colmena, Digital Zone, and Hotel Ibis Style, among others. Every donation, no matter how small, helps the association maintain its free, high-quality services, offering essential support to Yucatecan women in their fight against cancer.
With nearly three decades of uninterrupted work, AMYCC has become a pillar in the lives of many Yucatecan women, reminding them that cancer does not define them, and that there is life beyond the illness. Through its holistic approach—ranging from early detection and free medical care to continuous emotional support—AMYCC empowers many women to face this stage with strength and hope. As María Beatriz Ortega says: “You never know whom the message of prevention will reach,” reminding us that anyone, regardless of age or social background, can be affected by this disease. Every effort, whether through volunteering or donations, strengthens this mission and ensures that more women in Yucatán find in AMYCC a true place of support and community.
Asociación de Mujeres Yucatecas Contra el Cáncer A.C.
Calle 31 #146 x 16 y 18, Miguel Alemán
Tel. 999 900 1374
amyccayuda@gmail.com
www.amyccayuda.org
IG: amyccayuda
FB: Ayuda AMYCC
Yucatecan Women’s Association Against Cancer (AMYCC) is part of the mutual aid network Mérida Nos Une (Mérida brings us together). This network provides a space for citizens to connect, share resources, ideas, and experiences, and work together on projects and activities that benefit the community.
If you’d like to help and don’t know where to start, you can contact the network to explore various ways to get involved, support, and make a difference together. Reach out via cell phone at 999 338 8592, send an email to meridanosune1@gmail.com or meridanosune@merida.gob.mx, or fill out the "Quiero Ayudar (I Want to Help)" form on the Mérida Nos Une Platform.
Get to know this and at least 10 more associations that may need your help in Volunteering in Yucatán: Give Your Best this 2024.
Photography by Sara Alba, for its use in Yucatán Today.
First published in Yucatán Today website in December 2024.
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