The Fiji Cancer Society’s (FCS)5KM Pink Walk initiatives in Lautoka and Suva tomorrow will push for the advocacy of the impacts of Non-Communicable Diseases, says Chief Executive Officer Belinda Chan.
The Pink Walks in Suva and Lautoka will take place from 6.30am to 8.30am.
“For us in Suva, we’re just going to walk around Albert Park, and for the west, it’s just going to be around the main street, and then back to Shirley Park. We’re not making registration compulsory, it’s just a gold coin drop,” she said.
“We just want to reiterate to people that we’ve done all the awareness, and now we must start putting things into action because NCDs are going up, diabetes is going up, and cardiac problems.
“The theme is awareness into action. We all know what we need to do to reduce the risk of NCDs.”
Ms Chan said many were not being very conscious or committed to NCDs.
“Little actions matter, and it builds up over time, so we want people to join us for the walk but continue the habit thereafter and not just do it just because it’s a Pink Walk and done.”
“The team has put out a theme for the west, which is retro ’90s. In Suva, people are encouraged to come in pink or fancy dress, so to speak.
“Then we go through the motions of having the normal speeches, but we’re very grateful to GPH, who has come on. They’ll be serving some refreshments directly across from where the hotel is.”
Ms Chan said raffle prizes would also be provided by Pure Fiji, Damodar Cinemas, and Vodafone Fiji Pte Limited.
“We strive towards a healthier population, which is one of the goals of the Ministry of Health. So, we want a healthy Fiji, and this is the way we can do it, but it doesn’t have to be an organised activity. We want people to continue this and stay committed from tomorrow onwards, even if it’s just three days a week, two days a week.”
Ms Chan said the onus is on the individual at the end of the day to take ownership of their lifestyle choices and make a change.
“I want to discourage people from hosting morning teas, but instead host some form of physical activity, host a walk. Yes, you can have morning tea after the walk, but it doesn’t have to be a huge feast.”
