Over 30 survivors, patients, caregivers sashed during annual Pinktober walk

Over 30 breast cancer survivors, patients, and caregivers were honoured on Sunday as One Communications, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MoH), hosted the annual One Pinktober Breast Cancer Awareness Walk and Run under the theme “Act Now, Live Strong.”
The highly anticipated event, which attracted thousands of participants, began at the Scouts’ Ground and featured vibrant displays of unity, resilience, and advocacy in the ongoing fight against breast cancer.
As part of the day’s proceedings, One Communications sashed 15 survivors, 15 fighters, and 15 caregivers, recognising their strength, courage, and contributions to the awareness movement. The initiative forms part of the company’s broader “Champions of Hope” campaign, which brings together leading NGOs working in cancer prevention and patient support.
These include the Guyana Cancer Society, Recover Guyana, The Periwinkle Club, The Giving Hope Foundation, Cancer Institute of Guyana, Beacon Foundation, The Debra Shipley George GoCare Foundation, Family Awareness Consciousness and Togetherness (FACT), and the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA).
Participants also benefited from a suite of free health services provided by the Ministry of Health, including vital signs checks (blood pressure and blood sugar), HPV screenings, eye testing for persons under 18 and over 50, and access to $10,000 Universal Health Vouchers and $15,000 Spectacles Vouchers. On-site laboratory and eye testing facilities were also available, allowing participants to complete screenings at the venue.
Delivering brief remarks at the event, Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, lauded One Communications for its continued partnership in raising awareness and expanding preventive health services across the country. “Every year in October, we have this walk where we raise awareness for cancer prevention,” he said. “But this effort has evolved—now we are not only spreading awareness, we are encouraging people to take action.”
The minister highlighted the government’s ongoing investments in cancer detection and treatment, including the installation of mammography machines at major hospitals in Georgetown, Linden, New Amsterdam, and Lethem, and the establishment of a specialised laboratory at the Georgetown Public Hospital capable of distinguishing between different types of breast cancer for more targeted treatment.
The Health Minister underscored that some cancers affecting women are preventable and urged citizens to embrace regular screenings and vaccinations as part of a national effort to reduce cancer incidence. “While we celebrate those who have survived and those still fighting, each of us has a role to play. Go get checked. Take your vaccines. Prevention is power.”
One Communications’ Director of Marketing, Ian Lewis also commended the participants and organisations that have championed the Pinktober initiative. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to promoting early detection, education, and community support in the fight against cancer.
The Pinktober Walk and Run has grown into one of Guyana’s most recognised health awareness events, combining advocacy, access to health services, and celebration of the bravery of survivors and caregivers.
Organisers said the goal is to ensure that awareness leads to action, empowering individuals and families to take charge of their health and support others along the journey.