Pink Ladies heading back into the sunset
THE Pink Ladies will be on the move again this summer in its 20th anniversary year.
On Saturday 26 June, a ribbon of pink will once again appear along the island’s coast as the charity stages its Sunset Coastal Walk.
The charity was set up in 2001 by local women to help those who had undergone treatment for the disease, and the walk brings together islanders to promote breast cancer awareness and raise funds to support local women affected by breast cancer.
Chairwoman Karen Leach said: ‘The Pink Ladies have had the support of islanders for 20 years, which has allowed us to work with women and local health services to improve women’s experience of breast cancer.
‘We know from women going through treatment during this last 12 months that it has been really tough mentally and emotionally.’
She said the necessary restrictions in lockdown had meant facing cancer without the usual personal support systems.
‘This year more than ever we want to put a spotlight on the need to be breast aware, go for your cancer screening when invited and seek advice if you have any unexplained symptoms.
‘But we also want to highlight the isolating effects of cancer treatment and the need to pay attention to your mental health.’
Since 2007 some 2,000 walkers have donned bright pink T-shirts for the biennial Sunset Walk.
The Pink Ladies made the decision to go ahead with this year’s event after consultation with Public Health and hope director Dr Nicola Brink will start the event.
‘The walk has raised over £500,000 since 2017, with around £60,000 raised in 2019,’ said Pink Ladies treasurer Doreen Le Poidevin.
‘All money raised from the event stays in the island and helps with everything from training, equipment and facilities in the Guernsey Breast Unit, to paying for wigs and cleaning for those recovering from treatment.
‘Many of the participants take part for personal and often emotional reasons, giving them the extra incentive.’
There are two walking routes again this year. The first starts at Grandes Rocques car park at 6pm and is 10.5 miles long.
The second is roughly 3.5 miles and starts at Bordeaux at 7.30pm, with participants being joined by those from the other start point to go on to the finish line at Market Square where a party will be held with live music from Element 6. Food and drink will be on sale.
Marketing and digital agency TPA is again sponsoring the event.
. For more information, visit www.pinkladies.org.gg.
