Thousands came out to support cancer patients and survivors

– 2019 largest Pinktober walk 

DPI, Guyana, Saturday, October 26, 2019

Without even an official count, this year’s GTT Pinktober walk was certainly the largest, with more participants than previous years. On Saturday morning, the capital city was transformed into a sea of bright lively pink (fuchsia), as Guyanese from all walks of life gathered to help further the cancer awareness message; of treatment, support, hope and survival.

This year’s theme is “Live Aware”.

Minister of State, Hon. Dawn Hasting Williams was among the walkers.

Persons Living with Disabilities were also part of the walk.

A sea of pink making its way along the route.

The DPI team preparing to do their part for cancer awareness.

Pinktober 2019 participants warming up before they begin the walk.

From as early as 4:30 in the morning, participants began arriving at the starting point at D’Urban Park, Georgetown, all dressed in their pink t-shirts, leggings or sweat pants, even shorts and along with their water bottles and trusted smartphones to capture every moment of their journey.

That journey was along Irving Street to the Roundabout by the Seawall, then back down Vlissengen Road to culminate at D’Urban Park where they initially started.

Events included; a 5k and 10k walk and run.

Jacelyn Forrester, one of the participants told the Department of Public Information, (DPI) that she was there in support of everyone suffering from the disease and to bring awareness to it as well. She urged that other types of cancers also receive the same public awareness as breast cancer.

Another participant Juneann Ward said this was not her first Pinktober walk, adding that the turnout was good. She too hopes other cancers and health matters receive similar attention.

As the DPI team made their rounds, we also spoke with Garvin Issacs, who relayed that the company he works with encouraged him and other employees to support the walk.

Coleen Estwick said she was there to support her friend whose husband died from prostate cancer recently. “So I am in support.”

Not to be outdone, the nation’s young people also ensured that their presence was felt at the event; with many walking in groups with banners of their various clubs and schools.

Pinktober 2019 was supported by the Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Public Health, by Government Ministers and Agencies, schools, and both public and private groups.