To mark World Cancer Day, the 2026 Moris Award ceremony celebrated the excellence, commitment, and humanity of those working in the field of oncology in Martinique. Seven awards were presented to healthcare professionals, patient advocates, and committed citizens who embody the values of the collective fight against this disease.
«Behind every care journey, there is a unique story, a voice, an experience,»,
the emcee reminded the audience.
«It is by recognizing these unique stories, while remaining united in collective action, that we advance the fight against cancer.»
The event, which took place at the Palm and was attended by health and institutional officials, featured a 2025 review of local cancer care presented by Mr.Ms. Fatiha Nehal, Director of the Martinique Regional Oncology Platform (PROM), following the speeches by Guy-Albert Rufin Duhamel (GIP Martinique Santé), Jérôme Le Brière (University Hospital) and direct(ARS).
Recognizing Scientific Excellence
The 2026 Award of Merit was presented to Dr. Régine Marlin, a research engineer and molecular biologist at the Martinique University Hospital. She joined the cytogenetics laboratory in 2002 and moved to the molecular genetics of cancer laboratory in 2008, a step she describes as «a true scientific and personal revelation.».
As a specialist in molecular oncology, Dr. Marlin helped establish the first molecular genetics platform dedicated to oncology at the University Hospital, a landmark project that has profoundly transformed local practices. His work focuses in particular on identifying genetic alterations involved in prostate and endometrial cancers among populations of African descent, who remain underrepresented in international research.
His career has been particularly marked by the identification of a genetic mutation associated with early-onset and aggressive forms of prostate cancer, paving the way for collaborations with the prestigious Johns Hopkins University. «This demonstrates that an island region can develop high-level scientific expertise to help reduce health inequalities,» the jury emphasized.
The Committed New Generation
The Honorary Award was presented to the Dr. Johan Rose, also known as Modestine, a urologist at the University Hospital. A young physician with «the enthusiasm of youth and a deep desire to advance medical practices,» he has been particularly dedicated to the fight against prostate cancer.
His commitment aims to dispel fears, break the silence, and challenge taboos, particularly regarding the impact of the disease on men’s health and sexuality. Working alongside Cyparis, the only organization in Martinique dedicated to fighting cancers affecting men, he is working to change attitudes and encourage screening. The jury praised «not only his tireless work, but also his vision: that of a doctor who is willing to reap the rewards of his commitment in order to better pass on his knowledge.».
The Commitment Award went to Ms. Johanna Bitton, an advanced practice nurse (APN) at the University Hospital. After more than ten years at Assistance Publique – Hôpitaux de Paris, in the oncology department at La Pitié-Salpêtrière, she chose to return to her home region to put her skills to work for patients in Martinique. Deeply involved in organizing local conferences and scientific events, she embodies «a constant commitment to specialized oncology care.».
Putting Patients' Voices at the Heart of the Fight
The Moris du Cœur was awarded to Ms. Margareth Magloire, a patient advocate and president of the Cœur d’Oya association. Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018, she underwent a grueling course of treatment—surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy—before co-founding her organization in September 2022 alongside Micheline Racon.
Her commitment is also expressed through her artistic work. In October 2025, she published an inspiring collection titled Art Attitude – When Cancer Comes to My Table, offering «a different way to see, feel, and understand the experience of illness.» As the mother of two young daughters, she embodies «a voice that is accurate, attentive, and deeply human.».
Honors and Awards: The Pillars of Public Service
Three honors were awarded to recognize exemplary careers. The Dr. Eddy Brafine, an ENT physician and head and neck surgeon, received the Distinction of Honor for more than four decades dedicated to the treatment of cancerous conditions in the ENT field. «His scientific rigor, professional ethics, and dedication to his community have become a benchmark,» the jury emphasized.
The Exceptional Service Award was presented to the Dr. Mazen Khattar, an oncologist at the University Hospital. First demonstrated through his dedication at Albert Clarac Hospital and later in the ENT department, he stood out for his «reassuring presence, attentive listening, and sincere empathy,» according to numerous patient testimonials.
Civic Engagement and Equality
Two awards highlighted the importance of civic engagement and public policy. Ms. Gisèle Derigent, Regional Delegate for Gender Equality at the CTM, received the Equality Award for her tireless fight against discrimination and her support for the Cyparis association, noting that «equality in health care must benefit everyone.».
Finally, Ms. Claude Titina, a television commentator and former patient, was honored with the Civic Engagement Award. By going public about her illness, she broke the silence to «raise awareness, educate, and advocate for women facing the disease,» becoming «a vital witness to suffering, but also to resilience and hope.».
A MULTIDISCIPLINARY JURY THAT ENSURES EXCELLENCE
The 2026 Moris Prize is awarded by a multidisciplinary jury chaired by Guillaume Gobenceaux, Deputy Director General of the ARS in Martinique. Among its members: Catherine Murat (ARS), Jean-José Julien (Cyparis), the Doctors Mehdi Jean-Laurent and Alice Monthieux (daughter of Dr. Annick Moris), Fatiha Nehal (PROM), Ludovic Cauver (Madin Sun) and the Dr. Miguelle Marous. This diverse group, comprising representatives from institutions, nonprofit organizations, and the medical community, ensures that the decisions made in awarding these honors are guided by ethical standards, rigor, and excellence.
The evening concluded with remarks by Yves Servant, Director General of the Martinique Regional Health Agency (ARS), followed by a cocktail reception bringing together all those involved in the fight against cancer in the region. It was a convivial occasion symbolizing this unity in collective action—the only way to achieve lasting progress in the fight against the disease.
Philippe PIED
YVES SERVANT, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE ARS IN MARTINIQUE
«In this collective effort, institutional leadership is essential for setting the course and providing a vision.»
The Director General of the Regional Health Agency emphasized the importance of coordinated action among institutions, professionals, organizations, and patients in the fight against cancer in Martinique. In his speech, he highlighted the progress achieved through this joint effort and outlined plans to further strengthen the cancer care system in the region.
REPRESENTATIVE BÉATRICE BELLAY
Congresswoman Béatrice Bellay highlighted the attention the National Assembly is paying to public health issues in Martinique. Her political support for the fight against cancer underscores the need for public action at all levels—local, regional, and national—to ensure equal access to care and excellence in patient care. Her presence served as a reminder that the fight against cancer transcends political divides and unites all stakeholders in the region around a common public health goal.
GUY-ALBERT RUFIN DUHAMEL, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF GIP MARTINIQUE SANTÉ
The Executive Director of the Martinique Santé Public Interest Group (GIP) spoke at the ceremony to reaffirm his organization’s commitment to structuring cancer care services. His remarks highlighted the GIP’s central role in coordinating healthcare providers and continuously improving care pathways for cancer patients, emphasizing that this collective effort requires strong institutional responses and resources tailored to the needs of the Martinique region.
Philippe PIED
