Pink Caravan ride to celebrate Spirit of Union

Sharjah - The 2017 Pink Caravan ride will begin on March 7, dispensing free health advice and free medical screenings to all community segments across the UAE.

In the spirit of the union of the UAE, the seventh ride of the Pink Caravan - a pan-UAE breast cancer awareness initiative by the Friends of Cancer Patients (FoCP) - has adopted the theme 'Seven Years ... For Seven Emirates'.
The 2017 Pink Caravan ride will begin on March 7, dispensing free health advice and free medical screenings to all community segments across the UAE before it wraps up its 10-day journey in Abu Dhabi on Friday, March 17.
The slogan celebrates the Union of the UAE and coincides with the seventh anniversary of the inception of the Pink Caravan.
In the past six years, medical teams have travelled across the emirates to highlight the dangers of breast cancer and emphasise the vital role regular check-ups play, helping to allay fears and dispel misconceptions related to the disease. Each year over 100 experienced equine riders join forces, garnering support across different sectors, bringing together schools, universities, corporations, Pink Caravan ambassadors and royalty.
Pink Caravan ride to date has travelled over 1,420km across the seven emirates, with over 350 riders, 500 plus volunteers and 410 medical clinics offering early breast cancer detection examinations for 41,391 people, including 8,526 men. The Pink Caravan Ride has also visited 87 schools delivering educational sessions and lectures about the importance of early detection of breast cancer.
Reem BinKaram, head of the Pink Caravan Events Committee, said: "Forty-five years ago, the founding fathers planted the Union tree and laid the foundations of the UAE. They, and the nation's subsequent rulers, have made great strides towards a progressive and developed country which has earned a place in the modern world, and in many respects, plays a significant role in its future. In such a short time, the UAE is recognised across the globe as a dynamic, thriving nation and we are as proud of that progress as we are of our heritage.
"In March, it will be seven years since the first Pink Caravan Ride, which was launched in line with the directives of His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, in keeping with the UAE's vision to ensure that all communities enjoy the best healthcare services and safety." BinKaram added.
She said the 'Seven years. For Seven Emirates' is a phrase that summarises the caravan's efforts and goals. "This theme bears clear indications that our determination will never fade, our commitment will never die and that unity will forever be our destiny. The Pink Caravan will work to its full capacity to ensure good health. It is a gift from Sharjah to all emirates in the country, and also a token of love and harmony among the people of UAE."
reporters@khaleejtimes.com 

• Sharjah