This Sunday, 1 December, the 2024 Walk for Life will bring together thousands of participants in a solidarity event linking the municipalities of Adeje and Arona. Covering a 4-kilometre route, people of all ages will come together to share a message of hope and support for those affected by breast cancer. The walk begins at the Siam Mall Centre in Adeje, ending at the Avenida de las Américas/Golden Mile in Arona, and organisers are promising a day full of positive energy and activities with a big focus, as always, on the importance of early detection.
Organised by the Canary Islands Walk for Life Foundation, with the support of the Adeje and Arona councils, the regional government and the Tenerife Cabildo, this annual event has become something of a social landmark in the Canary Islands. This year’s Walk for Life is under the slogan "1 x month, 1x year, 1 life" , or ‘One self-examination a month and one mammogram a year can save lives,’ emphasising the importance of prevention and early detection.
The event was presented at a press conference attended by Brigitte Gypen, president of the foundation; José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga, mayor of Adeje; and Fátima Lemes Reverón, mayor of Arona. Also present was this year’s 'Godmother', journalist, writer, and presenter Yaiza Díaz, who is celebrated for her courage and dedication to raising awareness about breast cancer through her personal experience.
Brigitte Gypen commented, "This is the 19th edition of the Walk for Life, turning the streets of Adeje and Arona pink. This year we want to convey a clear message: ‘One self-examination a month, one mammogram a year, because we only have one life’. We will be at Siam Mall from 9.30am on Sunday, enjoying a range of activities such as music, face painting, t-shirt sales and a new feature, the solidarity walk. We want to thank all those who, from different corners of Tenerife, are joining in this event, which last year saw 6,000 participants, and which grows in numbers, in celebrating life, and in solidarity, every year".
Adeje mayor José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga, began by giving a special greeting to Yaiza Díaz, who represents so many brave women, and is the 'Godmother' of this year's walk. The mayor detailed how this event has found its place in the south of Tenerife, reflecting multiculturalism, solidarity and support. "In 19 years, we have made progress, but there is still a long way to go to improve the health situation in the south of the island of Tenrife."
Rodríguez Fraga assured Adeje " will continue to support initiatives such as the Race for Life, the Pink Room and projects for cancer patients, working hand in hand with the Canary Islands Race for Life Foundation and the Spanish Association Against Cancer".
Fátima Lemes Reverón, mayor of Arona said that Arona "supports this initiative, already consolidated over time. The foundation does essential work, covering areas where the administration does not reach. It is essential to continue raising awareness of the importance of prevention". She also stressed the need for greater active participation of administrations for research and support for patients and families.
Yaiza Díaz said it was a huge honour to be chosen as this year's 'Godmother'. "As a journalist and a survivor I want to send strength and encouragement to those going through the process. Breast cancer affects 8 in every 10 women. We are facing a health emergency, meaning we need to recognise prevention, investigation and science as keys in meeting this challenge, and the importance of the Walk for Life, an event celebrating life.
Sunday, 1 December: An Unmissable Date in the Fight Against Breast Cancer
From early in the morning, there will be a lot of activities taking place in Siam Mall, including dance, face painting, and music, as well as a performance by 'Ni un pelo de tontos' on stage at the end of the walk, in Arona.
The 2024 Walk for Life aims not only to provide support for those affected by breast cancer but also to raise awareness about the importance of prevention. “This event is a reminder that together, we can make a difference. Self-examinations and regular check-ups are essential to saving lives,” emphasised Brigitte Gypen.
