The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

Joggers, runners and walkers are set to “Paint Da Streets Pink” for the seventh consecutive year, as the Rotaract Club of South East Nassau Centennial hosts its annual fun run/walk this Saturday.

For the RSENC team, “Paint Da Streets Pink” is a major fundraising and community service initiative whose goal it is to raise awareness of breast cancer in the Bahamas and beyond in a way that is fun and encourages physical fitness.

Each year, a beneficiary is chosen to receive part proceeds from this event. This would is the third consecutive year the Sister Sister Breast Cancer Support Group will be the beneficiary.

“We’re excited to partner with the Sister Sister Breast Cancer Support Group once again. We love their passion for life,” said Kristel Moss, professional development director of RSENC.

“This year, in light of recent events in our country, we will also be donating 25 percent of proceeds to Hurricane Dorian initiatives.”

The walkathon will begin at the western end of Arawak Cay at 6am, travel onto Goodman’s Bay, and finish at Arawak Cay. Registration beings at 5am. A $20 donation is required.

“The fact that this is our seventh time being able to host this event shows this has (had a) great impact on the community. It’s heartwarming to see that each year this event grows bigger and better due to the support of sponsors, partners and participants as we give back to those who are fighting or have fought this deadly disease of breast cancer,” said Ms Moss.

She believes the event encourages screening for early diagnosis.

“Breast cancer is extremely prevalent in the Bahamas and therefore organisations like the Sister Sister Support Group, that support the disease’s awareness, diagnosis and treatment, are equally important and are always in need of our support. I am looking forward to seeing the participants come out in support of the cause, particularly survivors and their loved ones,” said Ms Moss.

Quoting the 2019/20 Rotaract theme of the year – “Impact Through Unity” – Ms Moss said it is the RSENC’s aim to address pertinent issues in the local community like breast cancer.

“I believe this event no doubt helps to unite persons and continues to break down the barriers when it comes to the stigma of ‘death sentence’ attached to breast cancer. Hosting an event like ‘Paint Da Streets Pink’ gives the satisfaction that we are indeed making a real, tangible difference in the life of at least one person.”

As to what participants can expect from Saturday’s walkathon, she said: “We have arranged loads of fun surprises along the route as well as prizes for top finishers. People will also have the option of participating in a raffle as well as purchasing products/services from our on-site vendors.”

Those interested, can sign up for the event at www.active.com by simply searching “7th Annual Paint Da Streets Pink”, or at one of RSENC’s sign-up locations: The Sports Centre Harbour Bay, Fresh Market Harbour Bay, and Fresh Market Old Fort Bay.

“For those taking part for the first time, just enjoy yourself. If you’re not able to run, walk. If you’re unable to walk, have fun, and cheer other participants on,” said Ms Moss.