Cricket SA, Lions Cricket and Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital unveil renovated Breast Cancer Imagining Unit
- Cricket SA
- Oct 9
- 3 min read
As an ongoing commitment to driving a life changing transformation in communities, Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Lions Cricket, have unveiled the newly refurbished Breast Cancer Imaging Unit (BCIU) at the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital (CMJAH).
A Breast Cancer Imaging Unit serves as far more than just a scanning facility, it is an integrated, patient-centred service that guides the entire cancer journey, with its most critical benefit being early detection.
By identifying cancer at its initial, curable stages (0 and I), when it is often too small to be felt and boasts a near 100% 5-year survival rate, the Imaging Unit acts as the primary tool for saving lives. From the first screening mammogram through to years of follow-up care, it provides the essential information needed to improve outcomes and support patients every step of the way, ultimately enabling better, smarter and more compassionate cancer care.
The restored BCIU boasts new vinyl flooring, electrical plugs, switches, and lighting, kitchen fittings and cabinetry, repaired drywall partitions and interior walls and ceilings.
In addition, CSA and Lions Cricket donated essential items such as furniture, linen, patient gowns, pink scrubs, wall artwork, a TV and computers, all of which have transformed the ward into a more dignified, comfortable, homely and functional environment.
CSA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Pholetsi Moseki, has noted CSA through the Pink Day International matches, which is a day where the Proteas take to the field dressed in pink continues to foster mindfulness about breast cancer while also raising funds and uniting South Africans behind the fight against breast cancer.
“For us at CSA, cricket is more than just a game, it is a platform for hope, awareness and change. CSA and Lions Cricket cooperation with the CMJAH is one we deeply value and we remain committed to supporting patients and healthcare workers who remain our inspiration through their strength and resilience.
Statistics say one in 28 women would be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, which means a lot of our friends, sisters and loved ones could be battling this disease. Through the Pink ODI Fund, CSA, Lions Cricket, its partners and cricket fans, commit to standing with the families and friends of those fighting cancer.
“Through the years, Pink Day has become a representation of purpose-driven annual sporting event, proving how collective action can transform lives and communities long after the final ball is bowled,” added Moseki.
The partnership between CSA, Lions Cricket, and the CMJAH was first established in November 2017 following a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at raising funds through the annual Pink Day event.
“Over the years, this collaboration has gone beyond the cricket pitch, using the power of sport to raise awareness about breast cancer, support research initiatives and improve the overall experience of care for cancer patients,” said Moseki.
“For over a decade, we have proudly hosted Pink Day, raising millions of rands and making a tangible impact in the fight against breast cancer. As custodians of the Pink ODI Fund, Lions Cricket is honoured to see these contributions translate into real change, such as today’s unveiling of the refurbished Breast Cancer Imaging Unit,” said Jono Leaf Wright, CEO of Lions Cricket.
“Pink Day at the DP World Wanderers Stadium has become a tradition that transcends sport. It is a day where our community unites in purpose. We are humbled to play a part in this journey and remain committed to ensuring that every Pink Day leaves a lasting legacy of dignity, hope and impact for those whose lives are touched by breast cancer,” added Leaf Wright.
Since November 2020, CSA and Lions Cricket have offered continuous monthly support to the hospital’s Mammogram Unit ensuring patients feel cared for during their visits.
The two organisations also donated furniture for the counselling room, helping create a warm and welcoming space for those undergoing diagnosis and treatment.
Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital remains one of South Africa’s leading facilities for cancer treatment, providing comprehensive care led by a multidisciplinary team of highly specialised and internationally recognised professionals.
The patient journey at CMJAH encompasses:
Prevention: Awareness campaigns such as the Pink Day Matches
Diagnosis: Mammogram services, laboratory testing and multidisciplinary consultations
Treatment: Surgery, medical oncology and radiation oncology
Support: Psychological services, palliative care and NGO/NPO partnerships
Through its investment and continued partnership, cricket has played a vital role in improving this patient journey, ensuring that the hospital can continue to provide exceptional, compassionate care.
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