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Relay For Life Gets Underway Today At American University Sharjah |
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24-hour cancer awareness and fund-raising activity to finish tomorrow (Saturday) at 4pmThe first ever UAE Relay for Life takes place today at American University of Sharjah, with the 24-hour walkathon aiming to generate much needed publicity and funds for the fight against cancer. An initiative from Friends of Cancer Patients (FoCP), the non-profit organisation that supports cancer patients and their families, the inaugural event for the MENA region will commence at 4pm today (Friday) and finish at the same time tomorrow. FoCP has announced that 1,700 people have signed up for the walkathon, with 52 schools, six universities, eight sponsors, 34 authorities and 67 cancer survivors among the participants. The organisers say that the event represents a new benchmark in community engagement for the battle against cancer. “What we will see today is the community coming together in an unprecedented scale to show their solidarity for those who have been diagnosed with cancer, those who are in remission, those who have survived the disease and those who selflessly dedicate their time and energy to caring for anyone affected by carcinoma. I am delighted to see such an impressive turnout for this event – it is heartening to see the community come together with such a positive spirit towards this historic event.” said Dr Sawsan Al Madhi, Director General of FoCP. One unique aspect of the UAE Relay for Life walkathon is its overnight element, which is an integral component of the event and one that has been incorporated with the concept that the small hours are often the loneliness for cancer patients. It is hoped that by walking through the nocturnal hours, participants and onlookers’thoughts will be focused on those who feel alone at night. Also taking place after nightfall at the Relay for Life will be the ‘Luminaria’ ceremony in memory of those who have died of cancer and in support of those who are currently battling it. The activity will see the lighting of candles and the taking of time to reflect on loved ones lost to the disease or to send thoughts and prayers to those currently facing it. The Relay for Life walkathon has been designed to be an engaging and interactive event and one that involves much more than merely perambulating around a track. The course will feature a variety of themes at set times, including a ‘make a new friend lap,’a ‘sing-along lap,’a ‘movement lap,’ a ‘casual lap,’ a‘tutu lap,’ a ‘glow lap,’a ‘superhero lap,’ a ‘conga lap,’ a‘wake up lap,’a ‘three-legged lap,’a ‘kids’ lap,’ a‘family lap,’ a‘silly hat lap,’ a‘make some noise lap,’ a‘selfie lap,’ a‘fancy dress lap,’a ‘crazy hair lap’ and - finally at 3pm on Saturday - a ‘fight back lap.’ Those attending the event but not actively taking part in the walkathon -perhaps being there to cheer on relatives, friends or co-workers - will find plenty to occupy them during the afternoon, evening, night and morning. Over 40 entertainment activities will be taking place around the clock during Relay for Life, including performances of live bands and DJs, comedy acts, poetry and storytelling. There will be American football, golf, bubble soccer and jousting. Keeping the little ones entertained will be bouncy castles, games, arts and crafts sessions, face-painting, movies and a soft play area. Relaxing moments for the adults include spinning classes, Pilates, doodling and yoga, while the more energetic can work up a sweat at the boot camp and make the most of the power stretching, zumba and core express exercises on offer. Relay for Lifehas its roots in the USA in 1985. Organised by colorectal surgeon Dr. Gordy Klatt, the first ever event raised $27,000 for his local cancer charity but since then has gone on to become the largest fundraising event for cancer in the world. Currently taking place in 29 countries, Relay for Life has to date raised more than $5 billion (AED18.3 billion) in support of cancer patients worldwide. Founded in 1999, FoCP has provided medical treatment and financial and moral support for more than 3,500 cancer patients and their families. Those wishing to join with the organisation and participate in the first ever Relay for Life in the MENA region should head to American University Sharjah today, where activities will be starting from 4pm. |
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