The messages of hope, care and love for cancer patients and those affected by the deadly disease, filled the air yesterday as the Ladies of Harley Qatar (LOH) took to the streets to kick off the Breast Cancer Awareness month.
As many as 100 bikers as well as others participants from Qatar Cancer Society, Think Pink Qatar, Hayat Cancer Support Group, Breast Cancer Support, Bikers Network, Soul Riders, IAID Music and Arts Centre, Fitness and Healthy Living Centre took part in the event.
The Breast Cancer Awareness month is observed worldwide in October with organisations holding many activities.
The theme for the year’s campaign is “Finding Cancer Early May Save Your Life: Prevention and Early Detection”.
LOH is an offshoot of the Harley Owners’ Group, comprising some 14 women including six riders.
The day’s event started with bikers kicking off a ride from Silver Cafe - Al Sadd Stadium to the Ritz-Carlton Doha where a series of events and activities took place.
Speaking to Gulf Times on the sidelines of the event, LOH officer Margarita Zuniga described the event as a “special day” to make a stride against breast cancer and an inspiring opportunity in uniting the people.
“The purpose of the group organising this event is to raise awareness of breast cancer and show support to cancer patients as well as survivors. We want to let everyone know through spreading information in the community as well as promote early cancer detection, which is key to curing the disease and saving lives,” she said.
Zuniga herself had just undergone a surgery in April to remove a fibro adenoma that was as large as a cigarette pack.
Fibro adenomas of the breast are lumps composed of fibrous and glandular tissue.
“I discovered a non-cancerous lump in my breast and I was diagnosed in Doha with the fibro adenoma and later went abroad for the surgery to remove it in April and everything is fine now,” she said.
“This event also gives our community the opportunity to come together to show support of cancer issues and cancer survivors,” Zuniga added.
Highlights of the family-friendly event included an exhibit area with information about cancer prevention, early detection, cancer support services, nutrition, fitness and leading a healthy lifestyle.
Other highlights were music performances by artistes from IAID, fun crafts and a mural painting, which were both enjoyed by children.
During the event, participants had a chance to honour and remember those in their lives who have been touched by cancer. A “tree of love” was displayed where participants pasted the names of their loved ones.