BurJuman's Pink Walkathon paves the way for breast cancer awareness

The 5th BurJuman Pink Walkathon is the landmark event in BurJuman's Safe & Sound campaign, a year-long initiative aimed at raising funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer.

Since the walk began in 2004, the number of people participating has grown and the annual event has drawn participants from all walks of life, united in their commitment to raise awareness about breast cancer. Most importantly, breast cancer survivors joined the crowds today to show that the fight against breast cancer can be won.

"In our 11th year of the Safe & Sound campaign, we are thrilled to see community support increasing steadily. Breast cancer is a serious threat for women of all nationalities, and also affects a small percentage of men. The walk is a visual reminder for people about the importance of maintaining regular health checks to prevent and detect breast cancer. It also promotes fitness and exercise, which are key factors in the prevention of breast cancer,"

said Sabina Khandwani, Head of PR and Marketing, BurJuman.

Sporting pink Safe & Sound caps and pink and white Safe & Sound t-shirts, men, women and children of all ages and fitness levels joined hands in the 3.6-kilometer walk, which began at 8.00am at BurJuman.

"Breast cancer has evolved from a family-centric issue to one which affects businesses and the larger economy. A range of corporate partners have supported the Pink Walkathon to highlight the need for keeping employees, colleagues and business partner and the wider community updated on how to protect women from breast cancer," added Khandwani.

The 5th annual 2008 Pink Walkathon has been further supported this year by partners Barclays Bank, Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Dubai Healthcare City, M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Johnson & Johnson, and Microsoft.

This year's Pink Walkathon included the inspiring music of local organization, Dubai Drums, who kept the crowds enthusiastic throughout the duration of the event with their special Drums of Hope performance, and the Aga Khan Scouts and Guides Group, who regularly partner with non-profit organizations during social causes.

Once the Walk was completed, participants enjoyed a fabulous jazz breakfast at BurJuman, with entertainment provided by jazz musicians. Children attending the Pink Walkathon enjoyed their own entertainment afterward, including face-painting, balloons, clowns and other diversions.

All proceeds from the Walkathon will go towards generating further awareness and supporting patient care. Funds raised are monitored by the Red Crescent Society of the UAE and Safe & Sound Steering Committee.