The Oman Cancer Association's 20th annual walkathon to support cancer patients will be be held on October 29 at a new venue — the Oman Automobile Association in the Wilayat of Al Seeb. OCA is aiming for more than 8000 participants this year, and the registrations have already begun.
The details were announced by Dr Wahid al Kharousi, President of OCA, and other officials at a press conference in Muscat on Tuesday.
Dr Al Kharousi said the event strengthens social ties and raises awareness of the importance of early detection of cancer and appropriate treatment.
"The number one factor in the care of cancer patients is to make them feel they are not alone. In a way, we symbolise it with a hug. It shows he or she is not alone. In addition, the walkathon is a programme to educate our children on what cancer is. They need to hear the word cancer. Thirdly, the networking that happens during the event is important," explained Dr Al Kharousi.
Over the years, in these walks, thousands of people of different ages and backgrounds have come together to participate in the group walk to raise awareness and raise funds to support research and development of treatments.The association also adopts short-term and long-term awareness programs and campaigns to educate cancer patients and their families.
The Oman Automobile Association has prepared a specific path for the participants to walk together, carrying an expressive symbol that symbolises hope and courage.
Sulaiman al Rawahi, Director-General of the OAA, stressed the association's social role and that it welcomes such events, as the association hosts international and local events that receive thousands of audiences. He stated that the walkathon is also an opportunity for patients and their families to communicate with the support community and share their experiences and success stories in confronting this health issue. He added that the Oman Automobile Association is also interested in such events that support the positive spirit and optimism among the participants.
Speaking to the media, Dr Manal al Zadjali, OCA Secretary-General, highlighted the slogan of the walk, which is "No One Fights Alone."
"OCA has branches across the country, and so we will have walks in the governorates of: Dhofar, Al Sharqiyah North, Al Sharqiyah South, Al Batinah North, Al Batinah South and Al Dakhiliyah on separate days. They are also creating awareness about cancer and its prevention. So it is not just OCA in Muscat Governorate doing the awareness; it is also there in other governorates," said Dr Al Zadjali.
"The annual walk of the Oman Cancer Association reflects the spirit of resistance, challenge, and hope. Seeing thousands of individuals walk side by side, expressing their solidarity and support for cancer patients, inspires us and reminds us of the importance of spiritual strength in the face of challenges," said the organising team, which also has members who are fighting cancer.
The Board of Directors of the Omani Association expressed its thanks and deep gratitude to the Omani government, the sponsoring bodies, and the Oman Automobile Association.
Dr Al Kharousi called on the media, civil society institutions, and public and private sector organisations to join forces to raise community awareness and support patients through global campaigns to confront cancer and, by participating in these events, to raise awareness and collect donations that enhance medical research and work to develop treatments.
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