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Lakerace for life It is the largest sporting event in Europe in which funds are raised to help organizations and hospitals fighting against breast cancer. Money also to carry out public awareness campaigns.
And it is that breast cancer leaves 500,000 new diagnoses and 125,000 deaths per year in Europe. It is one of the main causes of death in Spain, according to the Spanish Society of Oncology. Figures that undoubtedly make it necessary to raise money for research, as well as to make the population aware that prevention is essential.
Brigitte Gypen She is the president of the Canarian Foundation Carrera por la Vida. He suffered from the disease and now directs, here in the Islands, this event, which in 2019, the last time it was held in person before COVID, brought together more than 5,000 people.
-How was the Race for Life born?
“He was born in 2005 after I had breast cancer. I felt lucky to have survived such a strong experience, but also frustrated because there was hardly any information. It was something new and I felt alone. There were many taboos. So I wanted to put the disease in the media and show that it can happen to anyone. It occurred to me to organize a small walk in Santa Cruz to give light and emphasize the importance of self-exploration, and more than 400 people signed up. I thought he was going to stay at that, but people started calling me and we started doing more things. We have been growing and the race has become a celebration of life ”.
– The objective of the race is to look for funds for the investigation?
“At the beginning we wanted people to have information and talk about the disease because information is vital. When you are diagnosed with breast cancer and you have information, the fight is carried out stronger and more confidently. But yes, our goal is also to raise funds for research, which is essential. Today’s research is tomorrow’s medicine ”.
– Is this year celebrated virtually?
“The face-to-face race is a celebration of life in which many hugs are given, there are many emotions, people cry, and they also laugh. But due to COVID we cannot celebrate it. Last year we were chosen to represent Spain in this virtual race called Think Pink Europe. It was something new, but we went to 200% and it turned out very well, we were equally moved by the photos and videos of the people. And this year we had to repeat it. Hence came the slogan One more step. We want to go one step further to raise more funds, and reach out and help more people ”.
–Has COVID aggravated the situation of people who suffer from this disease?
“Yes, the people diagnosed last year had a very bad time because they did the process alone. They could not be accompanied. In addition, there have been much fewer diagnoses and the oncologists’ guild assures that there are almost 30% fewer diagnoses than in other years. And not because there has not been breast cancer, but because many people have not gone to check-up. But we have to insist that they see us if we feel that we have something that is not right. Oncologists are shaking about the data that will come out in the coming months and years. We must insist and fight so that they attend to us. That is why more funds will be needed ”.
-When is the race held?
“From September 26 to October 10. During this period, the 32 participating countries will make interactions and upload photos and videos to the networks. It will be incredible ”.
-What is the contribution to participate?
“Each person donates five euros, which is the way to buy a number, although they can also make a donation of the amount they want. They can do it in a personal capacity, public institutions, private companies and sports clubs. Anyone who wants to can help because, unfortunately, we all know women and men who suffer or have suffered from breast cancer ”.
-How many numbers do you expect to sell?
“We want to exceed the figure of last year, that there were more than 2,500 people signed up. We raised 17,000 euros and this year we want to reach 20,000, or more. Would be wonderful”.
-Can you register now?
“Yes, they have to do it on the Web www.carrearaporlavida.org”.
-A message to encourage people?
“Taking into account the difficult situation we are experiencing due to COVID, it is necessary to help. It is important, and it makes us feel good. We can help a little or a lot, but the fact of doing it is already extraordinary, and it gives us peace of mind in these times when our emotions are running high ”.
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