Sunday morning walk to raise breast cancer awareness
EMMARENTIA – Thousands gather in pink to raise awareness around Breast Cancer at this year's iThemba Walkathon.
A wave of pink filled the streets of Emmarentia on the morning for the 14th annual Avon Justine iThemba Walkathon on 20 October.
Around 30 000 walkers and runners pledged their support to raise breast cancer awareness by participating in the 5km and 8km walks. With people young and old, families and friends, organisations and movements, the walk was well attended and represented various parts of the community.
With three start times set for the thousands of runners, each start line was filled with an atmosphere of excitement and joy. Breast cancer defeater and popular actress Lillian Dube, along with comedians Jason Goliath and Skhumba, kept walkers at the start line entertained and educated on breast cancer. Dube, who underwent surgery for breast cancer in 2008, kept reminding the walkers that early detection was key to beating cancer. She has since become an activist for breast cancer and has been playing an active role in raising awareness around it.
iThemba is a Zulu word meaning hope and the walk is hosted to support the one in 29 South African women that will fight breast cancer. Avon Justine has been able to raise more than R20 million through their pink ribbon products for breast cancer education, awareness and screening in South Africa.
As walkers made their way through the streets of Emmarentia, many did so with placards in hand to celebrate those who are facing cancer or have overcome it. Many organisations were present to pass on information on breast cancer and how to avoid, detect and deal with it. The after-party of the walk was a festival of fun as well thanks to all the music and entertainment provided. It was an amazing day of solidarity and walkers now look forward to the 15th edition to be hosted next year.
Related Article:
