Innocent Kurira
BREAST cancer survivors turned their personal battles into powerful messages of hope and resilience at the Mrs Sinkwa Breast Cancer Power Walk held
at BAC in Bulawayo on Saturday.
The event brought together members of the community in a show of solidarity with those battling the disease, while remembering those who have lost their lives to breast cancer.
Beyond the walk, the gathering provided an opportunity for survivors to share their experiences, reminding participants that a cancer diagnosis does not necessarily mean the end of life.
For Wendy Morrisone, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022 at the age of 58, the journey began with fear and uncertainty.
She said the diagnosis was particularly frightening because she was also diabetic, with some people around her doubting whether she would recover.
“I was scared that I would die. I am diabetic as well, and people were saying I was not going to heal. I surrendered everything to God and I am here today. Most people were saying I would not survive, but I did. I am on my medication and all is well,” said Morrisone.
Her testimony offered encouragement to other women facing similar battles, highlighting the importance of hope, faith and remaining committed to treatment.
Another survivor, 49-year-old Linda Chitambo, was diagnosed in January 2022 and underwent an operation April of the same year, which was successful.
She said the treatment journey was not easy but expressed gratitude for having overcome the difficult period.
“I have gone through treatment. It wasn’t easy, but I managed to get through. An event such as this one is very important because the money goes to help someone who may not be able to afford treatment,” said Chitambo.
Her remarks brought out another important aspect of the initiative, the need to ensure that people who cannot afford cancer treatment are not left without assistance.
While awareness remains important, access to treatment and financial support can make a significant difference to patients and their families.
Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart challenged participants to look beyond the annual awareness campaign, saying the message should inspire lasting changes in people’s lifestyles and attitudes towards health.
Although acknowledging that the event was primarily aimed at raising awareness about breast cancer, Coltart said its message could extend to promoting physical activity and healthier living.
“Although this is an awareness campaign against breast cancer, it can go further. This must go beyond mere support for breast cancer and become something that motivates us in our daily lives.
Some people do not exercise, yet it is something critical. Do not just remember cancer today, but do so every day,” said Coltart.
He also highlighted the importance of exercise, saying walking and other physical activities should become part of people’s everyday routines.
Coltart further praised the initiative for bringing the community together, describing it as a reflection of Bulawayo’s character and an opportunity to promote the city beyond its borders.
He said such initiatives could contribute to sports tourism while projecting Bulawayo as a city capable of rallying behind meaningful causes.
“I am so proud of our city. I cannot tell you how heartwarming it is to see such an event. It is an indication to me of the spirit and soul of the city. It is unique and we can project that to the rest of the nation and Africa,” he said.
The event also featured a moment of silence in honour of breast cancer survivors and those who have lost their lives to the disease, followed by the release of balloons in remembrance of the departed.
The symbolic gesture provided an emotional reminder that behind every awareness campaign are individuals and families whose lives have been affected by cancer.
For the survivors who shared their stories, however, Saturday was also about demonstrating that life can continue after diagnosis and treatment.
Their experiences reinforced the need for early detection, continued medical care and collective responsibility in supporting those affected.
The Mrs Sinkwa Breast Cancer Power Walk therefore carried a message that extended beyond the kilometres covered, turning personal experiences of pain into a collective call for hope, compassion and action.
Isagogwane Hostel at Mpilo Hospital received a US$5000 donation from Mrs Sinkwa, a four plate stove from Verandah Café and a donation of pillows and linen from Double Bubbles Laundromat.
Schools’ fundraising activities donated towards the event.
“Mrs Sinkwa would like to thank all its sponsors for making the event possible and we were happy with the event to see survivors turning pain into purpose,” the organisers said.
