Thousands don pink and walk for breast cancer at Dubai park

In its 11th year, the Burjuman Pink Walkathon attracted cancer survivors, families of those affected and others who just wanted to show their support.

Participants in the Burjuman Pink Walkathon stretch their legs around Zabeel Park in Dubai on Friday in support of the Safe and Sound breast cancer awareness campaign. Antonie Robertson / The National

DUBAI // Tens of thousands of people dressed in bright pink and took part in the Burjuman Pink Walkathon to raise awareness of breast cancer on Friday.

The event, which is in its 11th year, attracted cancer survivors, the families of those affected and the general public who wanted to show their support.

Live music filled the morning air at Zabeel Park and people of all ages sang, danced and cheered their way around the 2km route.

Among those taking part were special ambassadors who had overcome breast cancer.

“I think the event is fabulous because it really brings out the awareness of the issue among people in Dubai who are not aware of it,” said Julia Godoy, 59, who is from the United States but has called Dubai home for five years.

She was diagnosed with breast cancer in June 1986 but, following treatment, is now clear.

“I actually had ovarian cancer in 1976 and I was really hoping that I did not get breast cancer, so when I found out, it came as a real shock,” she said.

“It affected my family but I was determined to beat it and come through it clear.

“The support I received from my family was fantastic and I’m so happy to see so many people turn out for this event today.”

Lilian Colge, 50, from Goa, India, was diagnosed with breast cancer in October 2003 by chance.

“I think I was in a mall and spotted a poster for this walkathon advising women to get themselves checked,” she said.

“I was one of those people who thought that it would never happen to them but then I checked myself and found a lump.

“I went for tests and the doctors confirmed that it was breast cancer and I went on a course of treatment and, by 2004, I was free.”

Although she is now completely clear of the disease, a Filipino lady she knew who was also diagnosed with the same condition did not make it through the treatment.

“I would urge woman to make sure to have a regular check and to be aware of the condition,” she said.

“Breast cancer is very treatable these days as long as it’s found early and there are many support groups and organisations that can help you through it.”

Priyanka Gupta, 51, from Mumbai, India, was also diagnosed in 2003, and underwent a gruelling course of chemo and radiotherapy.

“I was very shocked because, at the time, I had young children and I was worried what impact it would have on them,” she said.

“My type of cancer was very aggressive, so I had very intensive treatment.”

Over a three-month period she underwent eight courses of chemotherapy followed by and eight-week course of radiotherapy that involved 30-minute sessions every day.

“I live in Dubai so we had to commute to Al Ain every day for the radiotherapy and it was very exhausting,” she said.

“It was very difficult because, after the treatment, I was very weak and tired but I stayed as positive as I could and, thankfully, now I’m free.”

Fellow Indian Maya Karmani, 44, from Gujarat, said maintaining a positive attitude was crucial during treatment.

“Having the support of my family was also very important,” she said.

After finding a lump, her cancer was not confirmed until a mammogram, after which she had immediate treatment.

From June 2008 to February 2009 she had six cycles of chemotherapy and 25 cycles of radiotherapy.

“Thankfully I’m clear now but I still do my monthly checks and I’m having hormone treatment to help me recover,” she said.

“The chemo was very painful but I’m so thankful that I’m clear and of the support I have received.”

Leigh Regan, chief operating officer for the Burjuman Centre, said he was delighted at the turnout for the event.

“It’s just fantastic to see so many people coming out on a Friday morning to support this cause,” he said.

“We have tens of thousands of people here today and it’s been a huge success.”

The walkathon is part of Burjuman’s year-round Safe and Sound breast cancer awareness campaign, which is now in its 18th year.