Celebrating Two Decades of Carrera por la Vida

On a vibrant day in Adeje, the auditorium was filled with pink as the Carrera por la Vida celebrated its 20th anniversary with a heartfelt gala. This event not only marked a significant milestone in the fight against breast cancer but also served as a platform to honor the relentless efforts of individuals and organizations dedicated to this cause.

Honoring Pioneers in Breast Cancer Advocacy

This year’s gala was a poignant reminder of the ongoing battle against breast cancer, with approximately 1,700 new cases diagnosed annually in the Canary Islands. The event was spearheaded by Brigitte Gypen, a tireless advocate whose vision has inspired many. Alongside her, a dedicated group of women has worked diligently to enhance support systems for breast cancer patients, ensuring that they receive the care and compassion they deserve.

During the ceremony, the Foundation Race for Life took the opportunity to present its prestigious awards, recognizing outstanding contributions in the fight against breast cancer. The Foundation Race for Life Award for Social Action was awarded to the Spanish Association Against Cancer in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, known as Ámate. María del Carmen Bonfante, the association’s president, reflected on her early partnership with Gypen, expressing optimism about their shared vision for impactful change. This collaboration has been instrumental in raising awareness and providing essential support to those affected by breast cancer.

Celebrating Corporate and Community Contributions

The gala also shone a spotlight on corporate efforts in supporting breast cancer initiatives. The Corporate Social Responsibility Award was presented to CaixaBank and the La Caixa Foundation for their ongoing commitment to assist women affected by the disease. Their contributions have not only provided financial support but have also fostered a community of awareness and education surrounding breast cancer.

In addition to corporate recognition, the contributions of DIARIO DE AVISOS were acknowledged for their role in amplifying the voices of those impacted by breast cancer. Project director Priscila González emphasized the importance of sharing these stories as a societal responsibility, highlighting how media can play a crucial role in raising awareness and fostering community support.

Sports initiatives were also celebrated during the event, with the Foundation Sports Award going to Pedaleando por la Vida, a non-competitive cycling initiative that promotes health and wellness in Guía de Isora. This program not only encourages physical activity but also fosters a sense of community among participants, creating a supportive environment for those affected by breast cancer.

The Foundation highlighted various programs designed to support women post-surgery, including the Therapeutic Bra initiative, which has already aided 286 women. This program addresses a critical need for comfort and support during recovery, showcasing the Foundation’s commitment to holistic care. Additionally, the Pink Room, a dedicated space for training and community meetings, serves as a hub for education and support, further empowering women in their journey.

Looking Ahead: Training and Future Initiatives

As the gala progressed, attendees were filled with a sense of hope and determination. Looking ahead, the Foundation announced the second call for the Pink Scholarships, aimed at training specialists in oncology. Currently, fourteen professionals, including psycho-oncologists, physiotherapists, and nutritionists, are benefiting from this initiative. This program underscores the Foundation’s commitment to enhancing care and support for breast cancer patients, ensuring that they receive the best possible treatment from well-trained professionals.

The gala concluded with a collective reflection on the progress made over the past two decades and the work that lies ahead in the fight against breast cancer. The atmosphere was charged with optimism as attendees shared stories of resilience and hope, reinforcing the importance of community support in overcoming the challenges posed by this disease.

Key points

• The Carrera por la Vida celebrated its 20th anniversary in Adeje.
• 1,700 new breast cancer cases are diagnosed each year in the Canary Islands.
• The Spanish Association Against Cancer in Santa Cruz de Tenerife received the Social Action Award.
• CaixaBank and the La Caixa Foundation were recognized for their corporate social responsibility efforts.
• Pedaleando por la Vida won the Foundation Sports Award.
• The Therapeutic Bra program has assisted 286 women post-surgery.
• The Pink Scholarships initiative aims to train specialists in oncology.