The build-up has started for the tenth anniversary edition of CIBC FirstCaribbean’s Walk for the Cure, after approximately 75 persons participated in the bank’s Hike for the Cure at the Wallings Nature Reserve on July 24.
Natasha Charles, one of the bank’s organisers said that the Covid pandemic has forced the planning committee to think outside the box.
“We will be hosting a number of events which, in addition to being fundraisers, will also help to create interest for the main event which is the Drive for the Cure to be held on Sunday 3rd October, 2021.
Last year due to Covid restrictions, we pioneered our Drive for the Cure which was very successful. So, with the experiences learnt last year, we anticipate that this year’s event will be even bigger and better,” she said.
Other events planned are a Walk for the Cure Challenge, Sip and Paint for the Cure and Raffle for the Cure plus other in-branch fundraisers. As usual, all funds raised will be donated to the Breast Friends Organisation and the Oncology Department of the Sir Lester Bird Mount St John Medical Centre.
Charles thanked all those who participated in the hike and said in addition to being healthy fun it was also educational as persons learnt about the conservation efforts being undertaken to preserve and protect the area.
The region’s largest cancer fundraiser, CIBC FirstCaribbean’s Walk for the Cure, celebrates 10 years this year.
Walk for the Cure began as part of the celebrations to mark the bank’s 10th anniversary, and takes place across its 16-member footprint. It has raised over US $2.9 million over the past nine years.
The funds generated from the walk are used primarily to assist with the purchase and maintenance of equipment used in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients.
They are also used to provide assistance, care and counselling to patients and their families as well as to raise awareness, and stress the importance of early detection, through education campaigns across the region.