Sharks go pink for Cancer

THERE’S an archaic school of thought that says pink is a feminine colour and that men should not wear pink. The Sharks however challenged the petty myth on Saturday as they were greeted by more than 400 pink balloons as they stepped out on to Growthpoint Kings Park turf. The Shark Tank was dotted with fans wearing candy pink shirts, while the players also work pink armbands in support of the PinkDrive while raising awareness for breast cancer.

Durban North resident, and PinkDrive KZN administrator, Janice Benecke, said she was thrilled with men in black showing their support for breast cancer awareness. Janice, who has beaten cancer twice, 14 years apart, also lost her husband to cancer. However she has remained the bubbly and positive person she is today. The 55-year-old uses her inspirational story and life experiences to help raise awareness on cancer prevention.

“The support from the fans and the rugby players, all the way through to the marketing and ceo structures has been phenomenal. This was an ideal platform to get our message out to the residents of Durban and its surrounds. Our primary goal is to raise funds which will go towards keeping the PinkDrive Trucks on the roads, giving free healthcare services and educating women in communities,” Janice said.

Local resident and nurse at the PinkDrive offices, Liz Book, said KZN ranks among the highest in terms of breast cancer cases.

“We need more trucks on the road because early detection is key. It means we can save more lives. Cancer sees no creed or status, it affects millions of people and we need to raise more awareness and educate more people. Many women think they are okay; it is essential to have a breast examination monthly. The funds raised from Saturday’s game is all about benefiting the community,” Book said.

Novashni Chetty, Sharks PR manager, said the Absa Currie Cup match was dedicated to all the brave heroes fighting cancer.

“This match offered us the opportunity to show our appreciation for the huge support base women make up, and to throw our support behind this cause that has such an impact on women and their families. The ongoing Sharks’ Making a Difference campaign also induces very strong sentiment to this worthy cause, especially because it has a direct effect on our valued female supporters.

“This is our way of giving back and throwing our support behind this campaign to not only raise funds, but also awareness for Pink Drive whose vision is to provide a service to those in need and to advocate for change in the cancer space,” she said.

For more information visit www.pinkdrive.co.za