iThemba is a Zulu word meaning hope and that’s exactly what this walkathon aim to achieve, hope that we’ll find a cure but also to lend support and create awareness around breast cancer, a disease that will strike 1 in 29 South African women in their lifetime. To date Avon Justine has raised in excess of R7 Million through the sale of special “pink ribbon” products for breast cancer education, awareness and screening in South Africa.
Most people are under the misconception that breast cancer only affects women but you’re wrong. Men, as the spouse, son or relative to someone, suffers just as much and this is a chance for you to get involved. You’re in the unique position to detect changes in the breasts of their spouses, changes they might not notice or be too afraid to acknowledge. Early detection saves lives and that’s not just a slogan! Up to 30% of breast cancer related deaths could be alleviated through early detection and more than 90% of women will survive the disease when detected early. Men, play your part and join in the crusade against breast cancer, join the walkathon and show your support to those affected.
Avon has introduced the #PoutForAPurpose challenge to raise awareness for breast cancer and women of all ages are welcome to participate. In this age of selfies, what better way to raise awareness for a disease which can have such devastating emotional and physical effects on women than to let them express their beauty? All you have to do is choose your favorite Avon lipstick color, challenge your family, friends and colleagues to see who can post the best pout picture using the hashtag #PoutForAPurpose. Do it to raise awareness for breast cancer and to remind all women that breast cancer can be conquered through early detection. You’d be able to do it on the day of the walkathon with 35000 other participants.
You can also get involved with #PinkFridays. It’s a campaign urging all South Africans to embrace the color pink in October –breast cancer awareness month. Whether you’re male or female just wear a pink t-shirt, full outfit, wig or pink mask, every Friday during the month of October and post this on social media with the hashtag #PinkFriday in support of the cause.
Registrations are open on www.ithembawalkathon.co.za with tickets costing R135 for adults and R90 for children between two and twelve. A record 35 000 participants are expected at this year’s edition of the event.
Register now and walk for a purpose!
iThemba Walkathon 2017
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