The ManicaPost
Post Reporter
ZIMPAPERS will tomorrow (Saturday) host its first ever virtual Cancer Power Walk.
Zimpapers Public Relations and Corporate Affairs Manager, Ms Beatrice Tonhodzayi, said: “Unlike in previous years, this time, the walk or run will happen virtually. People can walk or run from anywhere. They can walk or run anytime between 6am and 8.30am from their homes or space.
“Statistics show that cancer is fast becoming a leading cause of death in the country.
‘‘Globally, cancer is also an issue. In fact, if you hear the number of people disclosing that they have diagnosed with cancer lately, you get very worried.”
Due to the unavailability and inaccessibility of cancer treatment in Zimbabwe, very few people can afford or manage to get treated.
“It has become quite common to see appeals from people for support from well-wishers so that they can go and seek treatment outside the country. Many Zimbabweans have had to go to South Africa, India and United Kingdom, among other countries to get treatment.
“Where it is available locally, the costs for cancer treatment are still beyond the reach of many. Chemotherapy and radiation costs are so high that very few people can afford to fund their treatment,” said Ms Tonhodzayi.
She added: “We all need to be concerned. This is why the Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk calls all of us to action. Whether you are affected, are a survivor or are healthy- we all need to take action.
‘‘How many of us are exercising? How many of us are eating healthy? Why don’t we take action and start by walking this Saturday in the Cancer Power Walk as a way of not just keeping fit, but raising awareness.
“In this initiative, Zimpapers partners Island Hospice, with all proceeds from the walk going to Island Hospice. I am calling on all of us to do something. Grab something pink from your wardrobe on Saturday morning and just go.”
