Five-day walk helps raise cancer awareness

The Strides 4 Hope Walk, which took place from July 22 to 26, united a group of ordinary individuals for an extraordinary cause.

Over five days, 20 to 30 walkers covered 100km across Gauteng, ending with a community 5km fun run at Rietvlei Zoo Farm in Alberton.

Created in partnership with Cansa, the event was more than a physical challenge.

It aimed to raise critical funds for cancer support and give a voice to lesser-known forms of the disease.

Each day of the walk was dedicated to a different type of cancer, with walkers wearing colour-themed shirts to reflect the focus of the day.

Ordinary people, extraordinary effort

Elize Damon, the main organiser, explained what sets this walk apart from other fundraising efforts.

“It is not athletes doing this. These are ordinary people. Spending five days together creates a team spirit that carries you through every step,” she said.

Jaq Grobler, who is also a runner, took part in the full walk.

“Everyone had to dig deep. You test your strength, but also your ability to support others. That is what makes it so powerful,” he said.

Planning the 100km journey takes weeks of preparation.

“We map out the route, walk it ourselves and adjust as needed. We try to keep it manageable, but there are always hills and challenges,” said Damon.

Shinning a light all cancers

The route may be long, but the purpose behind it is what keeps participants going.

“There is so much attention on breast cancer, but others get forgotten. We want to change that. We want people to talk about prostate cancer, lung cancer and other cancers that also take lives,” Damon said.

Funds raised go directly to Cansa, an organisation that provides cancer education, counselling and care.

“Cansa does not get government funding. Events like this help them continue their work,” she said.

Growing community support

The community’s response this year was stronger than before.

“More people showed up, more supported us. My hope is that next year even more diverse communities join in,” Damon added.

Personal reasons, powerful moments

For Helen Schumann, one of the walkers, the motivation was personal.

“My dad passed away from cancer. A close friend is fighting now. Walking for them means everything. It also reminds us that any one of us could be next,” she said.

Linda Murphy, a returning walker, said it is about unity.

“The best moments are when we are all together; walking side by side with one shared goal.”

How you can help

To support future walks or contribute to the cause, visit Cansa’s website or follow the Strides 4 Hope walk Facebook page.