The Fiji Cancer Society (FCS) is gearing up for its 5KM Pink Walk, which will take place in both Lautoka and Suva tomorrow. This initiative aims to raise awareness and prompt action against Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), which have seen a troubling increase in Fiji. FCS Chief Executive Officer Belinda Chan stressed the necessity of the walk as a crucial step towards addressing the growing prevalence of conditions like diabetes and heart disease in the country.
The event, commencing at 6:30 am and concluding at 8:30 am, will guide participants around Albert Park in Suva and along Lautoka’s main street back to Shirley Park. While registration is not required, attendees are encouraged to contribute a gold coin donation to support the cause. Chan remarked, “We want to remind people that although we have done much awareness, it’s now time to act.”
Participants are invited to don pink or embrace a retro ’90s theme in Lautoka, adding a festive atmosphere to this important health conversation. The event will also feature refreshments provided by GPH, a local hotel supporting the initiative, along with raffle prizes generously donated by businesses such as Pure Fiji, Damodar Cinemas, and Vodafone Fiji Pte Limited.
Chan highlighted the importance of sustaining healthy habits beyond the event, emphasizing that “little actions matter, and it builds up over time.” She urged attendees to make a daily commitment to healthier living, rather than viewing the walk as a singular event.
The FCS has strategically chosen to launch this walk during Pinktober, a month focused on breast cancer awareness. This aligns with past events where hundreds gathered for earlier Pink Walks across various locations, showcasing the collective endeavor toward a cancer-free Fiji. With nearly 80% of annual deaths in the nation attributed to NCDs, events like the Pink Walk are vital in steering the community toward a healthier future.
This grassroots effort mirrors a larger initiative aimed at encouraging proactive health measures among Fijians, dovetailing with ongoing efforts from various organizations committed to fostering healthier lifestyles. There is optimism that these community-driven initiatives will significantly decrease the incidence of NCDs and enhance public health from a broader perspective. Each step taken during the Pink Walk represents a commitment not only to awareness but towards cultivating a community unified in the pursuit of long-term health and wellness.