Jamilla Kirwan celebrates the end of chemo

SOURCE: DAILY OBSERVER/NEWSCO By Robert Andre Emmanuel

After years of helping others overcome their own health challenges, and putting smiles on the faces of others, Jamilla Kirwan had her moment to smile brightly as a heartwarming scene enveloped the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) yesterday, filled to capacity with family, friends, colleagues, and medical staff celebrating her significant milestone.

The former Carnival and Jaycees Queen, actress, and media personality marked the official completion of her chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer.

Kirwan, known for her vibrant personality and community involvement, was diagnosed with breast cancer in February after discovering a lump in her breast in June of the previous year.

Despite initial hopes that it was merely a cyst, further tests revealed the need for immediate treatment.

“When Dr Winter told me it wasn’t what we expected, I felt like a bucket of ice-cold water was poured over me,” Kirwan recounted. “But then he said those magical words – ‘We caught it early.’”

The journey through chemotherapy, which began in April, was not without its challenges. Kirwan experienced tough side effects, particularly from medications meant to combat the chemo’s impact.

However, she credits her robust support system for helping her navigate the difficult times.

“I don’t think anybody can go it alone,” Kirwan emphasized, surrounded by her family, including some of her siblings, and her two children, Jordyn and Justin Henriquez. “Everyone here played a role in my journey. I felt like they were with me every step of the way.”

The oncology team at the SLBMC, led by Consultant Oncologist at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre Dr Hanybal Yazigi, were praised for their expertise and compassionate care of Kirwan and other cancer patients.

Dr Yazigi took the opportunity to stress the importance of early detection, outlining the three pillars of breast cancer screening: monthly self-exams starting at age 20, annual clinical breast exams from age 40, and regular mammograms.

The celebration included a raffle for the oncology staff, whom Kirwan praised as “the best-kept secret” at the hospital. Prizes included helicopter tours and luxury accommodations, a gesture of gratitude for what Kirwan described as exemplary customer service from the entire oncology team.

Throughout her treatment, Kirwan continued to work remotely for the Calvin Ayre Foundation, where she assists with various community outreach programs.

Her boss, Calvin Ayre, she said, showed tremendous support, allowing her the flexibility to balance work and treatment.

However, the celebration was not just about Kirwan’s personal victory.

She shared the spotlight with her mother, who was diagnosed with tongue cancer during Kirwan’s treatment, which, thanks to early detection and successful surgery, her mother’s prognosis was deemed excellent, needing neither chemotherapy nor radiation.

Mario, Kirwan’s brother, highlighted the family’s resilient spirit, noting that all their father’s children are workaholics. “I watched my sister for two days take it like she was GI Jane,” he said, emphasizing her strength throughout the treatment.

Among those offering support were Ischikelle Corbin and Chandera Codrington—two of the Carnival Queens contestants whom Kirwan has mentored over the years.

Speaking about their involvement, Kirwan said, “These young ladies are so amazing. They would come and sit on my veranda, and I would train them there. Sometimes I was exhausted, but you want to pour into young people’s lives.”

She particularly praised two former queens present at the celebration, calling them “amazing role models” and emphasizing the need for such figures in today’s society.

The emotional celebration reached its peak when Kirwan’s children offered moving tributes to their mother.

Her daughter recalled her mother’s inspiring motto: “She always tells us that you must always be a rubber ball—when life gives you challenges, you must bounce back up and never give up.”

Her son praised his mother’s unwavering positivity, saying, “She’s always upbeat and happy about the situation, even in negative times.”

Codrington shared how meeting Kirwan changed her life, stating that “Queen of Carnival is the best thing that happened to me because I cannot even imagine ending the year never having met her,” she said, describing Kirwan as “a breath of fresh air” and “a ball of fire and light.”

She marveled at how Kirwan managed to train three queens during her chemotherapy sessions, calling it “immaculate.”

Ischikelle Corbin spoke through tears about Kirwan’s dedication, what with her undergoing treatment, but continuing to stay up late for practice sessions.

“She’s not just my communication coach, she’s my mentor… my inspiration, my role model,” Corbin said, noting how Kirwan maintained her bright spirit even during the most challenging times.

As Kirwan moves forward, she plans to use her experience to advocate for cancer awareness and support for patients and families affected by the disease.

“This journey has taught me so much about resilience, the power of community, and the importance of early detection,” she said. “I want to help others navigate their own journeys with hope and determination.”

The event concluded with Kirwan ringing the traditional bell that signifies the end of chemotherapy treatment, a sound that echoed through the ward, symbolizing triumph and new beginnings.

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