The Impumelelo Fitness Club once again got feet moving and blood pumping during its annual cancer awareness fun walk and boot camp at Cloverdene Mall on October 11.

As the sun peeked above the horizon, more than 50 participants took to the streets for a 5km fun walk through the Chief Albert Luthuli township.

Spearheaded by the club’s Precious Nxele and Tsietsi Lephokwane, the event forms part of ongoing fundraising efforts to create a purpose-built centre for cancer patients in Cloverdene.

The initiative began in 2019 when Lephokwane identified a lack of specialist cancer care in the community.

“Honouring the late Thulani Nxele, who was a staunch activist for early detection and cancer-related screenings, we are continuing our efforts to establish a centre focused on cancer care,” he said.

“Although Nxele lost his battle with rectal cancer, his words of encouragement and activism still echo in the hearts of many.”

Driving breast cancer awareness, Dr Caswell Nkuna, oncologist and cancer specialist at Dr B Shoba Inc in Boksburg, said that self-examination and professional cancer screenings should be a top priority for everyone.

“The word ‘cancer’ strikes fear in the hearts of many, but fear should not prevent self-examination or identifying possible anomalies,” said Nkuna.

“In the fight against cancer, the best defence is knowing yourself and your body.”

Nkuna emphasised that while women are constantly reminded to perform regular breast examinations, men should also take the time to understand their own bodies.

“Cancer does not discriminate, and in a fast-paced world its prevalence is growing,” he said.

“However, a lump, bump or change in one’s genitalia does not always indicate cancer. Even if the diagnosis is positive, early detection and treatment can significantly improve the prognosis.”

Watching participants undergo wellness exams conducted by qualified healthcare professionals, Nkuna said that every day is a good day for self-examination.

“No one knows your body better than you do,” he said.

“Whether you are lathering up with soap or applying body lotion, take the time to run your fingers over your breasts. Become acquainted with its texture and commit it to memory.

“Should you notice a change, take note of possible influences such as your menstrual cycle. If the changes persist, seek medical assistance immediately. Prevention is always better than cure.”

Following another successful body-conscious event and adding more funds to its kitty, Lephokwane thanked participants for their continued support in realising the club’s dream.

For more information about the development of the dedicated cancer care centre or to assist, contact Lephokwane on 084 738 9476 or Precious Nxele on 073 099 5556.

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