Breast cancer survivors inspire masses
ajman — The Pink Caravan Ride continues, spreading its message of hope and breast cancer detection awareness, as it arrived to Ajman Kempinski on Monday at 9 am.
The mobile clinics conducted tests on a large number of women and men, who were also educated on the importance of early detection of the disease to prevent its spread. The fixed clinics at Ajman Corniche saw a turnout of people of different nationalities for the screenings, who also engaged in discussions and queried about the cancer.
The riders, who started at Ajman Corniche, moved to Sharjah Corniche where they were received by Sharjah Police and residents from various nationalities. The Caravan then moved on to the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, before proceeding to the heart of Sharjah to make their last stop at the Al Majaz waterfront.
Liela Al Shamsi, a 58-year-old breast cancer survivor, said that the cancer resulted in the removal of one of her breasts last year. She snapped up the opportunity to get herself checked up again, to ensure that her other breast is free of cancer. “I share my experience with women to help them stay free from such a deadly disease. Pink Caravan is really a great initiative, for an important cause that affects so many women in our society,” Al Shamsi said.
Hamid Mohammed Al Hamid, chief of the volunteer team, said that his team consisted of 100 to 150 volunteers from various nationalities, who were excited to participate in the noble awareness campaign. The volunteers have been handed different tasks, including medical, logistics, organis- ing, and first aid duties. “Each rider is also responsible for feeding and caring for his or her own own horse and preparing it for the next day’s ride,” Al Hamid said.
He has been volunteering for 7 years now, for the cause of breast cancer awareness, but this year the turnout is impressive, he says. “People in remote areas receive us in the streets and welcome us with flowers; it’s an amazing feeling when you get respected for doing something for others. The police in each emirate escorts the caravan and opens the traffic for smooth movement; the community and local authorities show impressive support.”
afkarali@khaleejtimes.com
I share my experience with women to help them stay free from such a deadly disease. Pink Caravan is really a great initiative.” Liela Al Shamsi, breast cancer survivor
It is important for women to be aware so breast cancer can be diagnosed as early as possible.” Dr Karim Seghir, Ajman University Chancellor
Our mission is to help eradicate breast cancer by exposing the youth to methods of prevention, early detection and support.” Reem BinKaram, Chairperson of the Ride Higher Steering Committee
Each rider is responsible for feeding and caring for his or her own own horse and preparing it for the next day’s ride.” Hamid Mohammed Al Hamid, chief of the volunteer team