South Carolina Witness Project: Witnessing to Save Lives

Purpose: The Witness Project is a culturally-appropriate, evidence-based, breast and cervical cancer educational program. The purpose was to produce an updated version of the project video featuring the stories and voices of South Carolina (SC) women about breast and cervical cancer. The video is an important component of the program providing culturally-appropriate, spiritually-based messages. Method: Permission to reproduce the video was obtained from the National Witness Project Office. An advisory team consisting of members representing the South Carolina Cancer Disparities Community Network at the University of South Carolina, Clemson University, the Best Chance Network, the American Cancer Society, the State Baptist YWA Health Ministry, and Second Chance Cancer Support Group was convened to coordinate the production of an updated video in SC. A professional video production firm, PDA, was contracted to produce the updated video. The video messages included: 1) breast and cervical cancer disparities in SC; 2) importance of partnerships; 3) church as a cornerstone in the Witness Project. Results: A 14-minute video was developed. The video featured real stories of detection, treatment and survivorship from African-American women. The video has been well -received in the community and was initially screened at an event with more than 200 individuals. Copies of the video have been distributed for use during community presentations. A more formal dissemination and evaluation plan is currently being developed. Conclusion: The updated video featuring women from SC and their stories is a culturally-appropriate communication tool and has enhanced implementation of the Witness Project in SC.