Entries open for Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer

The Eastern Cape MEC of Health, Dr. Pumza Dyantyi, speaking at the launch of the Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer on Friday, 16 September 2016 at the Algoa FM studio in Port Elizabeth

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“The event is in its 18th year and is presented by the Eastern Cape Department of Health as our main partner. We’re very proud of everything we’ve been able to achieve through the multi-media cancer and health awareness campaign we run in the months leading up to the event. This is over and above the millions in proceeds that have been raised over the years to support cancer organisations in the Eastern Cape,” says Algoa FM’s Deputy Managing Director, Kevin Reed. The beneficiaries include Igazi Foundation, CANSA and CHOC.

“This year we are hoping to raise more awareness regarding the dangers of cancer and we urge more people to come and join the Big Walk. As part of our build-up campaigns, we anticipate to reach out and test as many people as possible to encourage early detection and treatment of cancer. Our hope is that the outcomes of this partnership will have a meaningful effect and impact on those affected by the disease,” says Eastern Cape Health MEC Dr. Phumza Dyantyi.

In the lead-up to the event, Algoa FM presenters will be joining staff from the Eastern Cape Department of Health, which will be hosting a number of health and cancer screening clinics at shopping malls in and around Nelson Mandela Bay during October.

Free health screenings will also be done at this year’s registration. They include tests for hypertension, diabetes, prostate cancer, blood pressure, glucose levels and breast self-examination. In addition, there will be a health promotion stall with relevant information to encourage healthy living.

The entry fee for the 5km walk is R60, and starts at The Boardwalk in Summerstrand. Entry forms can be collected and entry fees paid at Brian Bands in Cape Road; Brocketts in Uitenhage; Total Sports in Cleary Park Shopping Centre and Baywest Mall. Entry forms are also available from the Algoa FM studio in Port Elizabeth.

An online entry portal is available on algoafm.co.za. Manual entries close on Monday, 24 October. Online entries will be available until Wednesday, 26 October.

Registration will take place at Expo Level-1 at The Boardwalk on Thursday 27 and Friday 28 October from 1-7pm, or Saturday, 29 October from 6-7.30am.

“Everyone has either lost someone close due to cancer or knows someone who is either in remission or who is being treated for cancer. The Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer gives families an opportunity to have fun on the beachfront while showing their support for the fight against this growing epidemic,” says Reed.

In 2015 close to 12,000 people walked the 5km route.