The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Southern Africa Youth League, the Soweto Circuit, hosted a walkathon and family fun day at Ebenezer Parish in Meadowlands Zone 2 on 25 October.

Aimed at raising awareness of breast cancer in the community, the day sought to raise funds for the Oncology Department at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (BAHO).

The day started with a walkathon, where community members and the church joined forces to raise awareness.

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As they walked, their spirits were lifted, and community members engaged with curiosity about the purpose of the walk and the reason for the pink outfits.

The second part of the day included an aerobic session, survivors sharing their journeys, and later, games and jumping castles.

A breast cancer survivor from Meadowlands, Nthabiseng Seabela, said: “I was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer in 2023 after finding a lump in my breast. I started chemotherapy and had an operation.

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“In 2024, I went for a mammogram, and the doctors declared me cancer-free. I am currently waiting to go for radiation.’’

She shared that the journey was scary but not as difficult because she had a support system. She also added that she was glad that the church could do a great course for those battling cancer and raising awareness within the community.

A member of the organising team, Realeboga Serema, shared that the day was about raising awareness and celebrating those who are now cancer-free and those who are still undergoing treatment.

“All the funds raised will be donated to BAHO, hoping to make a difference in the lives of those battling cancer,” said Serema.