On Saturday, 27 January, the much-awaited Power of Purple event eventually took place, and was a huge success, with none of the rain that caused the previous event to be postponed.
The event started at 12 noon, and ended at 12 midnight. “This was the fifth Cansa Relay for Life event held in Randfontein, by the community for the community,” said the community mobiliser for Cansa, Thea Wille.
The main purpose of the event was to celebrate, remember and fight back against the terrible disease known as cancer.
The most important people at the event were the survivors, who were honoured while walking around the field with their banner by all the stallholders who clapped for those that are still fighting the battle of cancer, and those who have survived it.
Life Robinson Private Hospital was there, doing high blood pressure and sugar tests, for no charge. The most interesting part of their demonstration was the display of real lungs, one set from a non-smoker, and another from a smoker. The non-smoker’s lungs were a healthy red, while the smoker’s lungs were almost black.
There was also a mobile clinic, where people were informed about breast and other cancers. Isélle van Wyk, who does the Cansa service delivery and much more, said it takes 10 years for a smoker’s lungs to recover from one year of smoking.
Mapogo Security Company was also there, giving thirsty visitors something to drink. The Ben Morgenrood group was also present, and was the biggest sponsor of the event. The Herald spoke to Hester Nel, who happily said that she is now clear of cancer, after she was put on a trial programme at Johannesburg General Hospital.
The Run/Walk for Life Club also took part in the relay.
Live entertainment was supplied by Franna, Tanya V and Monique West, and there was lots of fun for the children on the jumping castle.
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