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Marina Raime Founder and Director • Betterdays Cancer Care • www.betterdays.uk.com 
A psychotherapist by training, Marina Raime sought an organization in the United Kingdom during her treatment for breast cancer that would provide information, support and ensure access to quality care. Marina’s experience revealed that little to no support and attention was focused on the disparaging effects of breast cancer among African Caribbean women in the UK. This has motivated her to start a resource not only for herself, but for those women who have been marginalized in their breast cancer care. As the founder and Director of Betterdays Cancer Care, an African Caribbean Breast Cancer Support Organization, Marina focuses on advocacy, policy, advisory groups, supporting patients to the point of survivorship and the racism that is embedded in the health care system. Through her work, she has developed a human rights approach to breast cancer.
I try to maintain balance and achieve happiness in my life by speaking the truth, daily reflections, gardening, reading, walking, prayer, and staying centered. I eat and drink simple foods- soups, porridge, yogurts, and lots of fluids because chemotherapy has damaged my esophagus. sometimes i notice how my children reflect the child within, this insight helps me to determine how I’m treating myself.
Our perceptions of health and wellness have been developed in the media. We need to define ourselves instead of allowing others to define us, as we are all unique. Betterdays Cancer Care is the leading breast cancer organization in England for African Caribbiean women, next to Susan G. Komen. Some of our issues are universal, and there are some that touch on ethnicity, such as prosthesis insufficient wigs.
I practice Buddhism, yoga, meditation. I use aromatherapy oils (lavender) mixed with simple shea butter, Hibiscus flower, aloe vera, I drink Nonie juice and plenty of fluids. I interact with my children, and that reflects how I treat myself.
When we step away for a time, we are not being irresponsible, we are preparing ourselves to better perform our duties and obligations. Sometimes when we step away, we return to find that important questions have been answered in our absence. Maya Angelou |
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