Relay for Life goes to Tembisa
Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) will hold the first township annual Relay For Life in Tembisa (Nyiko Primary School) on October 5.
In partnership with Weet-Bix and e-tv, the rural community outreach programme is looking to attract 250 people from the area.
“This is Cansa’s way of raising awareness in the black communities about cancer, as we will use the relay as a platform to educate the people in Thembisa about the disease,” says Relay for Life coordinator, Rina Burke.
The awareness of cancer and early detection are low among black South Africans, even though the disease claims more lives each year.
This is according to research done by the South African Family Practice on cancer awareness and knowledge among black South Africans.
The study has found that the late presentation of sufferers for diagnosis in black communities is cause for concern, as the disease is curable if diagnosed early.
This is blamed on the lack of education and awareness about cancer, poor screening and centralisation of resources, myths and illiteracy.
Poverty is one of the biggest contributors of the late detection and untreated cancers.
With many black South Africans falling into under the poverty line, it makes it difficult for them to access the screening resources, get aggressive referral and proper management at primary health facilities.
According to the research, all these resources should be implemented, and considered in an attempt to increase early detection and, improve long-term prognosis and survival.
Rina says the aim of the relay is to bring communities together to celebrate and honour cancer survivors, as well as create awareness.
“It offers people the opportunity to make a positive statement about cancer survivorship, perhaps by participating in honour of a family member or friend currently battling the disease or taking up the fight against it.
“The highlight of the day will be celebrating cancer patients and survivors with all the survivors in attendance taking the first honorary lap around the track,” says Burke.
Apart from the great entertainment and array of prizes that will be given away on the day, participants can look forward to a large variety of activities.
The Weet-Bix Lunch Zone will provide a free lunch between 11.30am and 12.30pm to all participants.
“During the past two years, the volunteer committee and East Rand Community for the Cansa Relay for Life for the East Rand, at the Boksburg City Stadium, have made global history and also won numerous awards for their contribution.
“The lives that have been touched through this community programme are endless and it continues to encourage and inspire people not only in our own community, but also nationally and globally,” says Burke.
The event will take place from 8.30am until 2pm.
Anyone interested in more information on the event may contact Rina Burke on 087 940 8356 or e-mail rburke@cansa.org.za.
