Cancer survivor urges early screening
— There is no stopping the Pink Caravan riders, despite it being hot and sunny outside. On March 15, around 9.30 am, more than 10 riders gathered at the Dubai City Walk to head towards the Kite Beach to support the cause of breast cancer awareness.
There was more than one stop in the entire ride, starting from City Walk to Dubai Canal, to Jumeirah road and finally to Kite Beach.
Badr Al Jaaidi, logistics head for the Pink Caravan team, noted, “It’s a very special year for the whole team as we have seven Emirates coming together for the first time to stand against the deadly disease that affects women and men both in large numbers. It shows that we are united and can fight against any problem together. Every year, we are noticing an increase in the support from the people in terms of volunteering and riding to raise funds for for treatment. At Pink Caravan 2017, almost 150 volunteers and riders participated. Through our medical checkups and screenings, we encourage more and more people to join and spread the word around”.
He added: “We are crossing the targets for the check ups every day from 100 to more than 500. It indicates that the Pink Caravan has created a momentum for itself in the last six years”.
For a breast cancer survivor Charlie Robineau, a 43-year-old British expat, this event is of great significance as it gives a chance to detect the cancer early and spreads awareness about it. “I wanted to take part in the programme last year, but could not due to my radiation therapy. It is the most well organised campaign and fun too.
“I just want to tell all women, especially the young girls out there to look at your body and listen to it. If you think something is going wrong with your body, don’t delay checkups — just go for it,” Charlie said.
Despite the pricking heat, all the 10 riders were seen smiling and enjoying themselves. After reaching Kite Beach around 3 pm, they started preparing for the next activity under the theme ‘Pink Regetta’, which took the Pink Caravan ride into the waters, with two boats carrying 20 riders along with VIPs and team members, taking place at Palm Island.
I wanted to take part in the Pink Caravan programme last year, but could not due to my radiation therapy.” Charlie Robineau, breast cancer survivor