Al Amoudi explained that what compelled her to write such a book was the sheer need to reach all types of people in the local community.
“The idea for the book first emerged when I was speaking with Princess Sita at an event at the Center for Deaf Ladies in Jeddah. I told her I was ready to write a book in sign language about breast cancer to which she replied that she would support the book,” Al Amoudi told Arab News.
Al Amoudi explained that she realized that instead of just authoring a book, she had the chance to develop a larger project and began learning sign language herself. She took the course in Ramadan and has since taught a nurse and another staff member sign language in order to provide unique services to the special group of deaf women in Jeddah.
“I have found that the need for a book on breast cancer for the disabled is much needed. One must remember that despite being deaf, these are still women who are at risk for breast cancer, just like other women need increased awareness,” said Al Amoudi, adding that this is the first time the deaf have been reached with such awareness.
Showing her gratitude for the book, Faiza Nawto, CEO at the Center for Deaf Ladies in Jeddah, said she hopes that the book would spread to all the local and international societies and aid the deaf to gain awareness about breast cancer.
In addition to the book launching ceremony, Princess Sita also promised that she would be the first woman to do a screening mammogram in the center’s new unit, which is currently under construction, but expected to be ready in three months.
Al Amoudi confirmed that there is also an English version of the book, which she has also authored and which is currently under press. She said she has made plans for the book to be distributed free of charge to all the disabled centers in the Kingdom and is planning to do a book tour next year in order to do workshops and lectures that target organizations dealing with sign language.
She said her greatest hope for the book is for it to be a tool to empower women with knowledge and educate them about the importance of early detection of breast cancer.
She also wants to draw attention to those who use sign language, offering them their rightful share of community and outreach services.
“Breast cancer is a disease that affects all women and we should not ignore our role in educating all women,” she concluded.