Local voluntary organisation Action for Breast Cancer Foundation has announced two upcoming events this October, designed to raise awareness and much-needed funds for breast cancer.

The events are a chance to truly make a difference in the lives of all those affected by breast cancer, just in time for ‘Pinktober’ – the internationally recognised breast cancer awareness month. Every attendee will also help bolster the Foundation’s ongoing mission to boost awareness, lobby for better services and treatment for patients in Malta, and promote a strong and healthy lifestyle.

The Active Lifestyle Walk on Sunday 29 October promises some family fun and exercise, while supporting this hugely worthy cause. The walk starts at 9.30am from Independence Monument in Floriana and moves through the Valletta ring road, across the bridge to Marsa. Participants will finish at the Marsa Athletic Track at around 10.30am, where they can join their family and friends in a range of other fun activities taking place on the track until 12.30pm. 

Plus, joining in to make a difference is easy: simply register from 9am on the day with a €10 donation (or €5 for children). Those taking part will also receive a pink t-shirt, water, and free transport from Marsa back to Valletta. Participants should wear running shoes, to avoid damage to the track. 

Meanwhile, another event earlier in the month will also stand up to breast cancer, in memory of founding member of the Hospice Movement, the Breast Care Support Group and Action for Breast Cancer Foundation, Helen Muscat. Marking a decade since Helen lost her battle with breast cancer in October 2013, the Helen Muscat – 10-Year Anniversary Celebration will be held by invitation only on Friday 13 October at 7pm at Spazju Kreattiv, Valletta, featuring entertainment from Ira Losco.  

Throughout October, Action for Breast Cancer Foundation will also hold breast cancer awareness talks at the workplaces of various companies, including VF Group in Paola, the Armed Forces of Malta and Kale & Crumble in St Venera. Ray Calleja and Ira Losco have teamed up with Kale & Crumble to create a series of videos promoting breast cancer awareness.

The volunteer-led Action for Breast Cancer Foundation is currently in negotiations to facilitate the introduction of Oncotype DX in Malta – a groundbreaking test that indicates whether a patient, if diagnosed with one of a specific criteria of breast cancers, will require chemotherapy.

“There are few people now who have not felt the devastating impact and repercussions of breast cancer, either through their own diagnosis or that of a loved one,” says Action for Breast Cancer Foundation Chairperson, Esther Sant. “As we come together for these meaningful events in October, we are reminded of the strength, courage and resilience of those battling breast cancer and their families – and we unite to campaign for a quality assured service of diagnosis and treatment in Malta and Gozo. Your participation and generosity will help us continue our fight against breast cancer, one step at a time.”

Find out more about Action for Breast Cancer Foundation at www.actionforbreastcancer.com