The Pink Caravan Ride’s network of passionate and inspiring volunteers who have been on the frontlines in taking forward the educational agenda of Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP), a Sharjah-based non-profit, to raise awareness of breast cancer and importance of regular screening, were given a royal welcome yesterday (Wednesday) as they embarked on the eight day of their ride in Ajman.

At their first stop at the Municipality and Planning Department, the pink convoy was received by Pink Caravan ambassador Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Municipality and Planning Department; Maryam Al Shorafa, also a Pink Caravan ambassador; and officials from various Ajman government entities.

A Pink Caravan ambassador for the past five years, Sheikh Rashid lauded the noble, humanitarian efforts of PCR, and the selfless service of its community of volunteers in working unitedly to combat breast cancer in the UAE. In his address to the gathering, Sheikh Rashid stressed the continued support for the pink brigade from Ajman’s Municipality and Planning Department and the General Command of Ajman Police.

Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi: ”We are happy to host and welcome the 10th PCR that treks around the UAE to raise awareness about breast cancer and the importance of regular check-ups to increase the chances of early detection and treatment. We are always keen on supporting the Pink Caravan to achieve its noble cause of raising awareness of all members of the community.”

Sheikh Ali bin Jamal Al Nuaimi, mounted on horseback in support of PCR’s activities on the 8th day and final trek of its 10th edition ride in the northern emirates. The day’s ride commenced at Ajman Corniche and moved towards the Municipality and Planning Department. After a short break, the equestrian team made their way to City Life Al Khor Mall and concluded their trek at Flag Park covering a span of 17 kms.

Breast cancer activities for families at Al Hamidiya Park

After the equestrians dismounted from their horses in the afternoon, PCR organised a series of events at Al Hamidiya Park that included edutainment activities for families and interactive games designed to raise awareness of families about breast cancer and the importance of regular check-ups. The proceeds of the event, organised in collaboration with Ajman Municipality and Planning Department, will go towards supporting PCR.

Ajam residents received free screenings at PCR clinics located at Musherif Health Centre which targeted both men and women, and a mobile clinic stationed at Ajman Corniche.

The pink brigade treks in the capital today (Thursday)

The pink cavalry will complete the final leg of the 10^th annual ride in Abu Dhabi mapping 14 kms in the UAE capital. The equestrians will begin their ride at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and journey towards Abu Dhabi Corniche. The cavalry will continue towards Marina Mall before reaching Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, culminating their annual journey at Healthpoint.

Three clinics for women will offer free screenings at Dalma Mall, Khalidia Mall and Marina Mall in Abu Dhabi between 2 pm – 10 pm on Thursday and Friday, while a clinic dedicated to both genders will be available at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque from 10 am to 6 pm. The mobile clinic will be stationed at Al Hudayriat Island on Friday between 10 am – 6 pm.

The PCR’s 10th edition will come to an end on March 6 after having travelled around the seven emirates, accompanied by 30 fixed and mobile medical clinics that have been offering free early detection screenings and consultations for all community segments throughout the 10-day tour.