Ambassador George H. Walker

Remarks at the Bridge of Health Symposium

Hungarian Academy of Sciences
Budapest, Hungary
October 19, 2003

Minister Kökény, Minister Lévai, NGO and private sector representatives, distinguished speakers, colleagues and friends.

It is an honor to be speaking this afternoon at the Bridge of Health Alliance Symposium, where we are addressing the serious problem of breast cancer in Hungary. I couldn't be more in agreement with the previous speakers: we must encourage early detection. Breast cancer is 90% curable - a phenomenal rate - but only if it is caught early. And that can only happen if women take the initiative and respond to the invitations for free breast screenings that have gone out all over the country. That, of course, is why we are here tonight; to coax yet more women to be screened early and often.

The NGOs who pooled their efforts to form the very backbone of the Alliance deserve special attention:

• The Foundation Against Cancer for Individuals and for the Future
• The Hungarian League Against Cancer
• The National Alliance of Cancer Patients
• The Hungarian Senology Society
• The Hungarian Oncology Society, Mammography Section

Over the years, they have worked tirelessly on all aspects of cancer awareness, detection and treatment.

Minister Kökény, I am told that your personal involvement last year helped to make this event a reality. Your participation tonight reflects your continuing commitment to improving the health and quality of life of Hungarians.

The continuation of this event is also due, in no small part, to its corporate sponsors. The Alliance has been blessed with so many supporters that it is not possible to mention them all - we would be standing here all night rather than walking. But let me thank them as someone who has been involved in corporate philanthropy for much of my career. You are setting an example for corporate citizenship that I hope will become the standard for all firms.

Thank you also Dr. Viszi and the Academy for allowing the use of this splendid building this afternoon. Who wouldn't be inspired to do good works in a building such as this?

Special thanks go to Mrs. Dalma Mádl, who again this year, has lent her name in support of this wonderful cause.

Last year, Ambassador Brinker talked about "sustainability." That we will soon be doing the Second Annual Chain Bridge Walk proves that this program has become a viable program, denoting the very essence of "sustainability." Over the past year, the Government, the NGOs and industry have continued to work together to keep the initiative strong. 260,000 women received invitations for free breast screenings. Nationwide, 42.6% responded. That's a wonderful beginning! I hope at next year's Bridge Walk we'll be able to report a good many more.

It's important to spread the program beyond Budapest. This year you have made a good start: the Alliance has already conducted events in Pécs and Szolnok. There are three more events planned in other cities as well. Hopefully even more cities will join the effort next year.

As I look around the audience, I am humbled by the dedication and sacrifice of all those gathered here tonight. What a convergence of ideals and strength! Thank you for allowing me to contribute in some small way to your important work.