KwaDlozi car wash turns into fitness floor for cancer awareness in Alexandra
Men and women stepped up in pink to show that early detection through regular screening is a community-wide fight.
Sibongile ‘Sbosh’ Tshabalala believes the importance of regular check-ups for breast and prostate cancer cannot be overstated.
On October 24, she brought together a group of men and women at KwaDlozi car wash, 61 18th Avenue in Alexandra, for an aerobics event aimed at raising cancer awareness.
“People have to know that they have to do regular check-ups at the clinics for breast cancer, and men need to check up for prostate cancer,” she said.
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She believes regular screening promotes early detection, which can make a critical difference to outcomes.
Breaking cancer stigmas
Although October is widely regarded as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with campaigns running from the first day to the last, aerobics instructor Rodgers Ndlovu said it was equally important for men to take part, because cancer does not affect women alone.
Tshabalala said the event also aimed to equip people with the knowledge they need to support those living with cancer.
“People should know what kind of food people living with cancer should eat, and what kind of lifestyle they have to live,” she said.
The event drew strong support from both men and women. Many of the women arrived dressed in pink, ready to take part in the aerobics session in a shared space of unity, joy and awareness.
Staying active for health
Resident Lerato Boshomane, whose close relative lost her life to breast cancer, said she did not think twice about showing up when she heard about the event.
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“It was my first time doing aerobics, and I really enjoyed myself. It was nice,” she said.
Although she regularly lifts weights, she said aerobics is something she would definitely do again.
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Ndlovu said the event also served as a reminder of the importance of staying active and hydrated, especially as spring temperatures climb.
“The purpose of doing these aerobics and going to the gym is to promote a healthy lifestyle in the community, and that is very important,” he said.
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