MORE than 7 000 supporters of the 2021 Virtual Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer raised sufficient funds to pay for a brand-new transporter for the Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa (CHOC), as well as sporting equipment to Fort Beaufort-based athletics club, P35 Sweaty and Strong.
The P35 Sweaty and Strong club was nominated as the sports beneficiary for 2021 by the Eastern Cape Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture (DSRAC).
The sports club was founded in 2019 by Pindiwe Yengeni, a primary school teacher in the town.
“The Eastern Cape Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, in partnership with the Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer, continues to promote a healthy lifestyle in the Eastern Cape,” said assistant manager for recreation development, Nozuko Damoyi.
“Many types of cancer are lifestyle diseases which can be prevented through regular exercise.
“In addition to its support for cancer organisations in the Eastern Cape, the Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer raises funds for sporting equipment which is donated to underresourced clubs.
“This equipment provides a foundation for the sports stars of tomorrow and promotes a healthy lifestyle in the community,” said Damoyi.
Increase in joining pink fun
According to Algoa FM’s managing director, Alfie Jay, support for the Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer came from all over the country, and it was encouraging to see the increase of organisations joining in on the pink fun.
The seven-seater transporter for CHOC will be used in and around East London to transport children affected by cancer as well as their care givers.
“The CHOC vehicles of hope reduce the financial burden on patients while minimising contact with the public, where they (the patients) could be exposed to infections to their already compromised immunity,” said CHOC CEO, Hedley Lewis.
“We sincerely appreciate Algoa FM, who united a community via their walk to donate this vehicle to CHOC.”
In 2021 CHOC used the exposure provided by the Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer to raise childhood cancer awareness as well as its early signs and symptoms within the region.
“Being chosen as the beneficiary of the Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer has been a dream come true for CHOC East London,” said Eastern Cape regional manager, Debbie Kleinenberg.
“Thank you Algoa FM, the sponsors and entrants of the 2021 Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer. We look forward to the 2022 Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer, as we continue making a difference in the lives of those affected and infected by cancer,” added Kleinenberg.
– ISSUED BY SIYATHETHA COMMUNICATIONS ON BEHALF OF ALGOA FM
