A record 7,000 people took part in this year’s Walk For Life

A record number of people took to the streets in the south of Tenerife for the Walk of Life yesterday (Sunday), with 7,000 participants walking the 4km course from Siam Mall to the Golden Mile. They gathered to show their support for breast cancer patients, participate in the celebration of those who have overcome the disease, and remember those who lost their lives fighting against the illness.

Under the motto "Love for Life" and with a tricolour theme this year, white, pink, and blue t-shirts for participants, they delivered a much-needed message raising awareness about the importance of breast cancer prevention through self-examination and medical check-ups.

At the end of the route, a notary confirmed that the amount raised so far stands at €61,330 with donations and sponsorship money still coming in, which is the highest amount since the event started almost 20 years ago.

The festive atmosphere began at 9am yesterday morning in the parking areas at Siam Mall, with people of all ages and nationalities enjoying activities such as Zumba, face painting, and a 360-degree photo booth, turning the shopping centre into a lively open-air dance floor. Positive energy filled the air, with people’s pets also wearing pink wings and accessories.

As the Mayor of Adeje, José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga, summarized, "We celebrate solidarity to help us be happier," echoing the sentiments of Brigitte Gypen, President of the Race for Life Foundation, who stated, "People suffering from breast cancer are not alone." Angel Pérez, the Communication representative of the organization, emphasized on stage, "We participate in the most massive and soulful event in the South."

The joy was evident in the faces of attendees, while emotion was expressed through dedications and tributes on the back of their t-shirts signifying the people they were walking for who had faced or lost their lives to the disease.

The role of volunteers was crucial once again to ensure the smooth running of the event. Their work was decisive in providing an effective response to a challenging event to plan due to the high number of attendees and the presence of people not in peak physical condition.

Volunteers gave out shirts, water, and fruit while monitoring participants and addressing any incidents. The Foundation team and volunteers, identified by their blue shirts, played a vital role. Brigitte Gypen emphasized, "Without them, we would be nothing."

Expressing her satisfaction, Gypen stated, "We are tremendously pleased because we worked hard this year, and the preparations were not easy; we did not expect so many people or the funds raised." These funds will be allocated to foundation projects and research, seen as "tomorrow's solutions.”

The Mayor of Arona, Fátima Lemes, referred to the walk as a "race of love for brave people" and called for a "great applause" for them. She thanked the Foundation for its work in information, awareness, and support for patients and their families. "Today, the participants are the main protagonists," she concluded, moments before the ten-second countdown for the start.

Mayors Jennifer Miranda of Granadilla de Abona and Ana Dorta of Guía de Isora, along with numerous councillors from different municipalities, also joined the walk. The Cabildo was represented by Agueda Fumero, the councillor for Social Action, Citizen Participation, Volunteering, and Inclusion. She highlighted the institution's work toward a more inclusive island.

The celebration finished with a massive party atmosphere and a raffle in the Golden Mile of Las Americas. The event conveyed a powerful message: no one should feel alone in the fight against cancer. Congratulations to everyone involved.