Cancer Prevention Walkathon

On the eve of World Cancer Day, JETUSA California chapter conducted the first annual Cancer awareness and prevention walkathon on Sunday February, 3rd 2008. It was a 4 KM walk held in downtown San Jose, CA. Approximately 250 enthusiastic walkers participated in the event. Inspite of the rainy and windy weather, walkers participated with a spirited walk without caring about the soaking showers and wind chill. Some of them did multiple laps.

Dr Sandhya Srinivas, MD, Oncologist and Associate Professor at Stanford University, gave an inaugural speech and flagged off the walkathon after a brief prayer by Kum Prapanna Vaisaradiji. About 80 High School students participated as volunteers and walkers. Walkers displayed colorful placards with cancer slogans such as "Nip it in the bud", "Arrest Cancer before it kills you", "Early detection is the best prevention", "A minute of smoking brings years of suffering." etc., It was very encouraging to see the group of students, children and walkers distributing the awareness literature to the pedestrians. They have also raised money for the cause during the walkathon.

Many of the participants were strongly motivated and took resolutions towards improving their lifestyle and health. Everyone was happy that a noble cause was being served and they were able to participate in it. A cancer patient came to the program and was moved at the JETUSA efforts in spreading cancer awareness. Flyers, flowers, table cloths, volunteer badges, registration forms etc were all set in lavender color, as it is the color for cancer in general. T-shirts, walkathon kits, discount coupons from sponsors were given to participants free of cost. When walkers came back they were served with fresh fruits and water. Special gifts were announced for those who raised $100 or more. Overall, it was a wonderful program, and JET California Team is very enthusiastic by the response. We are committed to do more such programs to support the community.