#Shavathon2024: Bikers, support group stand in solidarity with cancer survivors

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and in line with that the Calvary Bikers Ministry and the Reiger Park Cancer Support Group hosted their annual Cansa Shavathon to benefit cancer survivors.

The initiative, which was launched last year at Reiger Park Primary School, was this year held on October 16 on the Oos-Rand Secondary sports field.

To support the initiative, attendees had the opportunity to have their hair shaved or sprayed and to donate a fee.
The event also raised money through the sale of stalls, a voluntary entrance fee and monetary donations to a dedicated bank account. The donations of hair will help to make wigs for cancer patients.
While the team had not yet quantified the total amount raised at the time of compiling this report, organisers said they are expecting between R6 000 and R7 000.
Attendees, particularly children, enjoyed the jumping castle, face painting and dancing to the pumping beats of DJ Sherquin.

Calvary Bikers Ministry’s Mark Hank, a resident of the area and a taxi owner, thanked local businesses and individuals who supported the initiative.
However, he pointed out that while bikers came out in numbers to support, there was a low turnout from the community. He attributed this poor turnout to a lack of awareness among residents.
“While we appreciate the support we received from some community members, the poor attendance is a cause for concern to us, hence we are planning to join hands with other local organisations and educate our fellow residents about this cancer initiative.
“We need to do awareness campaigns to ensure everyone knows about the objectives of these events.”
The sponsors of the event included Stevie’s Butchery, Vincent Jumping Castle Hire, S Saplan Tent Hire, all biker clubs, Oos-Rand School, taxi operators and individuals.

Also Read: Action-packed Shavathon benefits cancer survivors