Run to support the fight against cancer

The Wanderers Club in Illovo, Johannesburg, will be a hive of activity on Sunday October 11 when thousands of women gather for the annual Spar Women’s 10km Challenge and 5km Fun Run.

The women are flocking there for a morning of sunshine and fun, but there is a more serious side to the race as well. Proceeds from the Challenge will go to Reach For Recovery, a support group for women with breast cancer, providing them with practical and emotional support.

It is a sobering thought that about one in nine women in South Africa are likely to suffer breast cancer at some stage in their lives. It is no respecter of boundaries, and affects women of all races and classes.

But the good news is that breast cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer, and definitely no longer a death sentence. Treatment includes chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, in involves either the removal the lump or a complete mastectomy. 

It can be a traumatic experience, especially if the treatment involves a mastectomy, but that is where Reach for Recovery comes in.

All the counsellors are trained breast cancer survivors, who are able to understand the feelings of the newly-diagnosed patient. 

The Reach for Recovery counsellors visit patients either at home or in hospital to talk to them and to provide them with support.

“We explain what is going to happen, and what they can expect,” said Beulah Jankelowitz, Chairperson of the Johannesburg branch. 

“We also provide pretty floral bags for them to carry their drains, and very soft cushions to put under their arms so they can be more comfortable. While we can’t provide medical advice, we are also available to answer questions both during and after their treatment,” she said.

We have all been there ourselves, so we know what they are going through.”

Many of the Reach for Recovery counsellors will be taking part on October 11. They can be recognised by their pink t-shirts and the sound of laughter that accompanies them.

For the first time, the organisers have introduced a Tree of Hope.

So many people have been affected by cancer, either directly or indirectly,” said SPAR sponsorship manager Belinda Nel.

“We will make cards available for them to place on the tree, with a message for someone they know who has been touched by cancer of any kind. It is a way in which they can acknowledge those who have gone, or who are currently battling cancer.”

Although online and pre entries have closed, you can still be part of the 10km or 5km Challenge by entering the race on 8, 9,10 October at The Wanderers Sporting Club between 9am and 4pm.