–As WPO organises first major Cancer Walk
LEGUAN Island has probably never looked as ‘pink’ as it did last week when the Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO) hosted the first cancer activity outside of the school system, attracting women from all across the island to observe cancer awareness month.
The WPO hosted a walk that saw over 60 people participating, and taking on the approximately two-mile journey from Waterloo Bridge to the Leguan Cottage Hospital in Blenheim.
All clad in pink, with marked t-shirts, thanks to Impressions, organiser of the WPO Fajina Khan said the turnout was larger than anticipated. “Women of all ages, ethnicities, religion; everyone came out, even a few men,” she shared with Pepperpot Magazine.
The WPO also planned and executed a fund-raising dinner and cultural evening, for which the beneficiaries were not limited to persons with breast cancer, but those suffering from other cancers and issues affecting women.
According to Khan, one person died last week on the island with ovarian cancer, and there are currently four women with cancer and one survivor that the WPO knows about. At the dinner, these individuals were allowed to share their experiences and battle with cancer.
Khan, part of the WPO with some 42 members, shared that her vision is for the women to move Leguan forward through cooperation. Her plan also includes highlighting the issues that affect women. “Like I said to them: ‘Stronger together’. Our group must be one that is there for other women; not limited to women but offering support to the entire island.”
She added: “I would sincerely like to thank all those persons who supported the events, in cash and kind, and who came out to the walk. It just goes to show that if we come together, we can move mountains.”
Khan and her family have recently been at the forefront of many transformational projects on the island, and often have to put in a lot of work and sacrifice to get things streamlined. “As long as you see there is progress and benefit to the people, the sacrifice is worth it; as long as we’re not stationary but moving forward,” she said.
Dr. Marcia Evelyn-Spencer, the doctor attached to the Leguan Cottage Hospital who gave the feature address at the cancer walk, shared that the events were well organised under the leadership of Khan.
“It was a first for me, but I must say the cooperation of the residents was much appreciated. Everyone was willing to play a part in this Breast Cancer Walk, and I was honoured to be a part of it,” she expressed.
She encouraged everyone to do regular check-ups, and follow a healthy lifestyle during her remarks. She also reminded the folks that both men and women can get Breast Cancer.
“I also emphasised that support from family members and friends plays an important role for those patients suffering with breast cancer,” she said.
The WPO is grateful to all the folks who supported the cancer events, notably President Irfaan Ali, Hardrock Cafe, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Khan’s Enterprise, Guyana Breweries Inc., Nai Meat Centre, Khan’s Construction, Recovery Guyana, Giving Hope Foundation, Professional Paint and Design, Impressions, Ojhas Internet, Island Link Internet, Two Brothers Epoxy, Leguan NDC, Asad Ayube, Treshan Ojha, Barber and Sons Construction, Imran Khan Construction and other personal contributions.
