By Ayabonga Kosi
In a poignant display of solidarity and support, the streets of Makhanda were filled with a sea of pink on Tuesday, 19 March as community members of all ages rallied together for the Pink Walk for CANSA, sponsored by Pick n Pay in partnership with The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA). This event, which began in 2019, marked its triumphant return after a hiatus enforced by the pandemic, with the latest walk drawing a remarkable turnout.
The inaugural Pink Walk, held at Victoria Girls High School in 2019, paved the way for a vital annual event in the town’s calendar. The initial plan was to make it a yearly event, but with the COVID-19 pandemic, it faced challenges in doing so. Jon Campbell, who is the head of the Pick n Pay Makhanda franchise, speaks on this time, saying, “The turnout in 2020 was a bit lower than previously, being that it was right before the restrictions came into effect”.
Nonetheless, organisers remained steadfast in their mission to raise awareness about cancer detection and support for those affected by the disease and their families, which brought it back this year. This rallied local businesses and community members to join forces in spreading awareness and support.
Marius de Vries, who is a fund development coordinator for CANSA, spoke on the importance of making this an annual event, saying, “People must know that every year, at the end of March, there will be a Pink Walk”.
He emphasised the significance of reaching small communities like Makhanda, particularly since their main care home is located in Gqeberha. De Vries added, “We are there in full support for the people, offering transport to oncology appointments”.
Marius also added how awareness events such as this walk are very important as since its founding in 1931, CANSA has been a non-governmental organisation.
Early detection, he stressed, is paramount in the fight against cancer, and events like these serve as crucial platforms for awareness and to encourage regular check-ups.
Added: He said, “We have a clinic on-site in our care homes, and we have a mobile clinic to make sure we can get to the rural areas to get early detections.” He went on to say, “The quicker we can detect it, the better the chances of saving lives.”
Both Marius and Jon echoed similar sentiments, emphasising the unity required to combat such a pervasive disease.
Jon highlighted the universal nature of cancer, transcending boundaries of race, creed, gender, age, or religion by saying, “Unfortunately, cancer is one of the rare things we can all say has somewhat affected us, whether it is a family member, a friend of even yourself.”
Added: He added, “It’s a pain that most of us have gone through and unfortunately will go through.”
He underscored the significance of events like the Pink Walk, providing a moment of respite amidst the chaos of daily life to reflect on loved ones’ battles with the disease. He spoke to this by saying, “Our days are busy; moments like this walk allow us to take time to remember.”
The atmosphere at the event was one of both remembrance and celebration, as participants donned pink shirts, some even opting for pink hair dye or tattoos as symbols of solidarity. Vox, an internet service provider, and Pick n Pay demonstrated their commitment to the cause through generous donations, while proceeds from ticket sales and food stalls went towards funding essential projects and comprehensive care for cancer patients at the care home in Gqebehra.
As participants took to the streets of Makhanda, their collective steps echoed a message of hope and resilience. Each stride served as a tribute to those who have fought bravely against cancer, as well as a reminder of the ongoing battle that unites communities worldwide.
The Pink Walk stands as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in tackling complex health challenges. Through awareness, support, and unity, Makhanda continues to shine as a beacon of hope in the fight against cancer.
