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20 April 2024

UAE pins on a pink ribbon to fight breast cancer

Published
By Bindu Suresh Rai

It’s that time of year again, where the world unites for a change to join arms in the battle against breast cancer.

According to the UAE Ministry of Health, cancer is the second cause of women deaths, with breast cancer being the most common denominator.

The highest mortality rate is between the age group of 45 years to 59 years, with the highest incidence also reported in the same group.

Unfortunately, the most alarming fact is that while this disease can be prevented, it is almost always detected at a late stage. But awareness and testing can change all that.

The concerns are shared globally, and as a symbol to mark the Breast Cancer Awareness programme launched by Estée Lauder, in 2000 a campaign was launched, marking the start of the Global Landmarks Illumination Initiative where landmarks across the globe glowed pink for the cause.

The cause has spread even to the UAE, and this year the Burj Al Arab, The Fairmont Dubai, The Grand Hyatt, The InterContinental and The Crowne Plaza in Dubai Festival City will glow pink for the cause.

But that doesn’t mean the work is done. This month needs the help of all of you, and Emirates 24|7 jumps in to the cause to bring you ways how you can spread awareness and fight the good fight to finally beat breast cancer before it is too late.

Pink Ribbon Book Sale – October 7

Safe and Sound, in association with Volunteer In Dubai and Aramex, is once again organising the Pink Ribbon Book Sale.

The aim of this initiative is to raise both awareness and funds for Safe and Sound, starting off by collecting unwanted books in the Dubai community, which will then be sold in to raise funds on October 7 from 11am until 6pm at the mall.

All of the proceeds will be used to continue raising awareness for breast cancer in the UAE, as well as to provide tangible support to less fortunate women in the city, in the form of free mammograms.

Help out by donating books, spread the word amongst family and friends and even volunteering. Email bookclub@volunteerindubai.com

Pink Survivor Fashion Show – October 21

If there ever was an evening to turn out and show your support, this is it.

BurJuman once again will host the Pink Survivor Fashion Show, an annual event where breast cancer survivors walk the ramp to create awareness for a cause close to their hearts, and prove that life does go on; they are living proof.

The event also aims at generating awareness amongst women that early detection can save lives. So sign up for that mammogram today, especially when Welcare Hospital is jumping in on the bandwagon and providing 50 per cent discounts n them.

The Pink Survivor Fashion Show starts at 7.30pm in BurJuman.

Think Pink at Karaoke Night at d’fusion – October 21

Who says cancer awareness cannot be conducted while having fun and still spreading the word across the community?

BurJuman has teamed up with Grandeur Hotel, inviting residents to spread the message of hope, love and support through an evening of music and mayhem at d’fusion, the Indian fusion restaurant that gives a kick with its karaoke nights.

So head down there on Wednesday, October 21 for a special ‘Pink Karaoke’ night, where BurJuman will be distributing pink ribbons for guests to wear as well as Safe and Sound’s educational collateral, packed with pertinent information on this deadly disease, early diagnosis, detection and treatment.

d’fusion will also be ‘going pink’ with its menu on the night featuring some delectable pink desserts conjured up by Chef Mujib, as well as a signature non-alcoholic fruity pink drink being served to quench the thirst of aspiring singers and music lovers in the audience.

The popular Fusion Five band members will be on hand to sing songs made famous by strong female singers and breast cancer survivors including Kylie Minogue, Anastasia and Olivia Newton-John.

Guests are also free to dedicate their song choices to friends, family and loved-ones who have been touched by this disease and continue to fight the good fight. Call: 0 4 325 6448

Raffles Spa Pink Day – October 22

Here’s a rare opportunity to nab a treat and do it for a good cause. Raffles Dubai is hosting a Pink Day on October 22, where all proceeds from the tips of your manicured and pedicured nails, to ladies and gents salon offerings, and spa treatments will be donated to the Safe and Sound Breast Cancer Awareness Programme. Call 04 314 9828

The Pink Walkathon – October 28

Perhaps the biggest event of the Breast Cancer awareness month, join the community as your every step will be matched by thousands of others who will come together to show support for the disease and raise funds for the cause.

And the draw is not the walk itself, but also the community carnival that features a live jazz band, food stalls, free drumming by Dubai Drums, a Pink bazaar for some killer bargains, a kids corner and much more.

The 3.6km walk starts and finishes at BurJuman, with registration fees costing Dh50 for adults and Dh30 for children between the ages eight and 12 years. Children below eight years walk for free and do not require registration.

For corporate or group registrations of 10 people and above, the Pink Team will come to your premises to collect the completed registration forms, the money and provide you with the walk T-shirts as per the sizes requested.

All fund usage is monitored by The Red Crescent and go towards providing free mammograms, patient care and spreading breast cancer awareness.

 K-Lynn Pledge – month long

 Lingerie brand, K-Lynn, is all geared up to get you to take the “K-Lynn Pledge”.

 What it is, you ask? Think a community initiative that raises awareness of breast cancer care throughout this month.

Every woman who takes the pledge will receive a voucher for a breast care consultation at Dubai London Specialty Hospital, along with free mammograms and sonograms where required.

The pledge will be photos and signatures that will find its way into the window display of K-Lynn’s store at Mall of the Emirates.

The Grand Hyatt Dubai – month long

Another treat for the senses, The Grand Hyatt Dubai spa is kicked up about supporting the Estée Lauder breast cancer awareness programme by donating 10 per cent of the price of every Creamy Cranberry Facial sold. The 60-minute facial is priced at Dh410. Call 04 317 2612