Menlo Park Lions Club hosts unique breast cancer awareness walk

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The Menlo Park Lions Club of New Jersey hosted a Breast Cancer Awareness event by holding the NJ Saree Walkathon October 29, 2023, at Roosevelt Park. The dress code color was Pink/Magenta/ white/ purple Saree. October is a breast cancer awareness month and pink is the color, one that most of the women wore showcasing the strength of women in the fight against cancer. Its aim was also to combine cultural elements with a meaningful cause while fostering a sense of community and solidarity among those impacted by breast cancer.

The NJ Saree Walkathon for Breast Cancer was organized by Past District Governor Varsha Naik from District16 J, Lions Club International, Menlo Park Lions Club in partnership with Navrang Dance, Soiree of_Sarees, and Suhag Jewelers and was supported by the Indian  Business Association, SN Travels,Testy Temptation by super chef,  BCB bank, 5 Elements Care and Solutions, Bhatt Foundation and Minuteman Press Edison.

“Wearing sarees symbolizes unity and cultural diversity within the cause while celebrating heritage and traditions,” organizers said in a press release. The walkathon sought to get attention from a broader audience, emphasizing the importance of supporting those affected by breast cancer across various cultural backgrounds.

The walk raised awareness about how breast cancer risk can vary depending on various factors, including age, genetics, family history, and lifestyle, and how important regular screenings, early detection, and lifestyle choices can play a crucial role in reducing this risk and improving outcomes if breast cancer is detected. It’s always recommended for women to discuss their individual risk factors and screening schedules with their healthcare providers, the walkathon emphasized.

“Our Goal was to raise funds to support Breast cancer awareness and the proceeds will be donated to RWJ hospital,” organizers said.
One hundred and one women participated and a few men also supported the cause.
Councilman Ajay Patil, addressed the participants, and Vice District Governor John J.D. Schweska and Past District Governor Al Mottola motivated everyone.

Naik also conducted some warm-up Bollywood Zumba with Navrang Dance Academy’s Zumba instructor Sumathy Iyer.

The Walkathon concluded with breast cancer education. Lion Pratibha Nichakawade gave a speech, and a few raffle prizes were given to winning participatnts by Yukta designer and Ispa by Priya.

Organizers than everyone who participated and noted this was the first of its kind Saree Walkathon in New Jersey. “Unbelievable support and participation from our community.
Special shout-out to Tima Deole and Priyanka Purohit for the great help and (for being the) backbone of this event,” the organizers said.