Shimla. In honor of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Department of Radiation Oncology at IGMC Shimla organized a vibrant Pinkathon, bringing together over 200 participants in a spirited walkathon aimed at raising awareness and support for breast cancer patients.
The event commenced at 8 AM from the new building of the Cancer Hospital, winding through scenic locations such as The Ridge and Chaura Maidan, with a turnaround at the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies.
Participants proudly wore pink T-shirts, symbolizing solidarity in the fight against breast cancer.
The Pinkathon featured a competitive spirit, with awards given to the top finishers.
First Prize (10,000) was won by Vipasha, a second-year student from RKMV Shimla.
Second Prize (5,000) awarded to Anamika, a plus-two student from GSSS Phagli, Shimla.
Third Prize (3,000) to Suman, an M.Com student from RKMV Shimla.
Additionally, three consolation prizes of 1,000 and five prizes of 500 were awarded. Special recognition was given to the youngest participant, 10-year-old Ira Gupta from Auckland House School, who completed the race within the cut-off time.
Notably Suman Lata, a cancer survivor, also participated and successfully finished the race.
The event was flagged off by Dr Manish Gupta, Professor and Head of the Cancer Hospital along with Dr Lalit Chanderkant, Dr Siddharth Vats and Dr Poornima Thakur and the prizes were distributed by Prof. Kushala Pathania, Professor and Head of the Gynaecology Department.
All participants received finishersā medals as a token of appreciation for their commitment to the cause.
While awareness about breast cancer is improving in Himachal Pradesh, many women still delay seeking treatment due to family responsibilities or opt for local healers, which can worsen prognosis.
The message is clear: breast cancer is now considered a curable disease when detected early and timely intervention is crucial.
The Pinkathon not only celebrated health and fitness but also reinforced the importance of education and awareness in overcoming barriers to treatment.
