Business behind bars for a cause

The Jail and Bail marked the official launch of the CANSA Newcastle Relay for Life 2019, which is described by committee chairperson, Mona Maharaj as one of the town’s biggest community events.

August 1, 2019

Estella Naicker 1 minute read

Abdul Peerbhay and Vassa Mohan donned orange overalls and submitted to CANSA jailers on Saturday afternoon.

The two business people proudly participated in the CANSA Newcastle Jail and Bail, raising a significant financial contribution towards counselling for cancer patients, cancer education and awareness, research, health checks and cancer screenings for early detection.

The Jail and Bail marked the official launch of the CANSA Newcastle Relay for Life 2019, which is described by committee chairperson, Mona Maharaj as one of the town’s biggest community events.

On August 31, hundreds of supporters will gather at Blackrock Casino to walk a 12-hour relay – from 6pm to 6am the next morning – in solidarity with cancer patients.

The emotionally charged event includes a special treat to celebrate the lives of cancer survivors and the sacrifices made by their care-givers, a luminaria ceremony (candle-lighting) to honour those who have lost the battle, and a commitment by the community to fight back against this dread disease, by supporting research and education initiatives driven by CANSA.

“The CANSA Newcastle Relay for Life is driven by the community, for the community,” explained Maharaj.

“Through this initiative, residents have a chance or volunteer or participate in an event that truly touches lives.”

Leading up to the main event, the Newcastle CANSA Committee has planned an Alice in Wonderland themed high tea on August 24, and the Karou Comedy Show on September 7.

Contact Maharaj on 073 756 2480, Sumaya Yoonus on 082 362 4216, or Farzana Jamal on 076 216 1253 for event details and to purchase tickets.

CANSA volunteers will also host an awareness stall at the Show Off Your Ride car show on August 3.