JR2R, ICWI going the distance for breast cancer support

In a bold move to continue in its support of breast cancer survivors across the island, Jamaica Reach To Recovery (JR2R) and the Insurance Company of the West Indies (ICWI) have announced their ambitious goal of raising $20 million for their annual Pink Run, dubbed, Miles of Hope.

The announcement was made at the press launch, held on Wednesday at Toyota Jamaica, a gold sponsor of the event. Proceeds from the October 27 event will go toward providing lifesaving treatments and essential support for men and women battling breast cancer, as well as their families.

The launch also featured Dr Tamu Davidson, Director of Non-communicable Diseases and Injury Prevention at the Ministry of Health and Wellness, who emphasised the importance of regular health checks and praised JR2R for their dedication and tireless efforts in organising the Pink Run. Guest speaker, Rochelle Cameron, founder and CEO of Prescient Consulting Services Ltd and attorney-at-law, delivered an inspiring message on the resilience of breast cancer survivors and highlighted the critical role of community support in the fight against the disease.

According to GLOBOCAN 2022, breast cancer remains the leading cancer affecting women in Jamaica, accounting for 35 per cent of all female cancers. The incidence rate of breast cancer in Jamaica is 71 per 100,000 women. The urgent need for early detection, particularly for women in rural areas, is a priority for JR2R. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, while breast cancer in men is rare, men do carry a higher breast cancer mortality rate than women, primarily because men are less likely to assume a lump is breast cancer and are overall less aware of breast cancer, which can cause a delay in seeking treatment.

Sandra Samuels, president of JR2R, emphasised the significance of the Pink Run in supporting breast cancer patients, particularly women.

“The mothers are the backbone of the families in Jamaica. The loss of the woman in the household changes the family structure in a devastating way. With knowledge and early detection of breast cancer the chance of survival increases significantly. The Pink Run helps many women who are not able to afford breast cancer procedures – JR2R assists with up to $100,000 per individual while finances last,” Samuels said.

This year the 5K Run/Walk will take place at the Emancipation Park and the aim is to have 15,000 participants. This year’s JR2R ICWI Pink Run is sponsored by ICWI, Toyota Jamaica, iCool, National Commercial Bank, Chase E Ramson, Suncity Radio, Race Logistics, Garrick Communications, RJRGLEANER Communications Group – Radio Jamaica, Television Jamaica, Hitz 92 FM, Fame 95 FM, Restaurants of Jamaica, Foska Oats, Happy Ice, Cubbies, Hungry Jack, Sherwin-Williams, Elle and Vire, Main Event, Imperial Optical Jamaica, Print Big, Jambisco, CIBC, Lithographic Printers Ltd, Intelligent Multimedia Limited, Spectrum Insurance Brokers, Tank-Weld Metals, Print Big, Blue Diamond Almond Breeze, Boost Balanced Nutritional Drink, Banana Boat, Pharmatex Pharma Jointflex, Consultancy Rizzen Brand, and Salada.

Persons and organisations interested in sponsoring, participating or making a donation can visit the Pink Run website at www.pinkrunjm.com or email icwipinkrunsecretariat@gmail.com or jareachtorecovery@gmail.com for more information.