Kinsale going pink for breast cancer

ORGANISERS of the Kinsale Pink Walk are encouraging women to be breast aware, as they prepare for their eighth fundraising Pink Walk, taking place on October 6th.

Every year in Cork, an average of 376 people are diagnosed with breast cancer. While increasing numbers are being diagnosed with breast cancer, over 80% of people are now surviving their illness.

Chairperson of the Pink Walk, Fiona O’Mahony, a breast cancer survivor, said: ‘We took the decision to move the walk to October this year to coincide with breast cancer awareness month. We wanted to bring the walk back to basics and remind people to check their breasts, as early detection is imperative. Even though more people are diagnosed every year, the survival rate with early intervention is better than ever before and something I feel very strongly about raising awareness of.’

The Pink Walk raises crucial funds for the Irish Cancer Society’s cancer research and free services available locally to help anyone affected by cancer. Fiona said that they have been blown away by the support of local businesses coming on board as sponsors this year, and together with money raised by participants, hope to raise over €35,000 from this year’s walk.

Registration is now open at www.pinkribbonwalk.ie for the event which will take place on Sunday, October 6th with runners starting at 11.50am, followed by walkers at noon. 

The route begins in the town centre, taking in some breath-taking coastal views. before finishing at the harbour. Afterwards, longstanding ambassador Sharon Crosbie will be joined by local a cappella choir Kinsale Voices for a closing ceremony in Acton’s Hotel. Fiona added: ‘There is no family untouched by cancer in Ireland. So let’s join together for this.’