HONG KONG, April 18, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- The Kinnet, a wellness centre dedicated to active ageing, is hosting a unique charity event throughout May which entitled the 'Off Peak Pink Walk,' will raise awareness of breast cancer.
Throughout the month of May, interested participants can pledge a minimum HK$ 350 flat fee to walk, jog or run for distances of up to 3.5 kilometres. All proceeds will benefit the Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to eliminating the threat of breast cancer through public education, patient support, research and advocacy.
Breast cancer has become the most common form of cancer affecting women in Hong Kong since the early 1990's with, on average, nine new cases diagnosed every day. According to the "Hong Kong Cancer Registry 2013" published by the Hospital Authority, statistics indicate that the median age of breast cancer patients in the territory is 54, compared with 62 in Australia and 61 in the United States. Patients in Hong Kong are relatively younger than these two countries.
Given that early detection can save lives, The Kinnet is inviting the Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation to increase both awareness and understanding of the condition through the staging of two free health presentations on May 7 and 12 which will focus on "The Importance of Breast Care," as well as a "Breast Health Exhibition," that will be on display at the wellness centre for the duration of May.
With Mother's Day approaching on May 8, The Kinnet is appealing to supporters to lace up their running shoes and walk together with their mums and grandmothers to support and raise funds for those affected by breast cancer. The 'Off Peak Pink Walk' challenge is open to everyone in the community, not just the centre's clients.
"As someone who was diagnosed with breast cancer myself, I know only too well the significance of initiatives such as the 'Off Peak Pink Walk.' This event will raise funds to enable the Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation to deliver services to those affected, increase awareness and reach more people who need help," says Ms. Cheung who is planning to walk.
"I am excited to be involved in the 'Off Peak Pink Walk' to help elevate the visibility of such an important cause," says Mr. Leung, a 72-year-old participant. "Together, we can make a huge difference to those affected by breast cancer. I want to encourage everyone to sign up and pledge their support to help the thousands of people affected by breast cancer in Hong Kong."
An opening ceremony to celebrate the start of the 'Off Peak Pink Walk' will be held at The Kinnet, 33 Hillier Street, Sheung Wan at 3p.m. on May 5, 2016. The event will be officiated by Mr. Bernard Chan, President of Asia Financial Holdings, Ms. Stephanie Tan, Executive Director of The Kinnet, plus the Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation's Vice Chairman Mrs. Sandra Mak and Council Member Mrs. Josephine Lau who will take to the treadmill as part of the launch.
In a further sign of support, staff at The Kinnet will also be dressed in pink during May, while visitors can enjoy pink-themed food and refreshments at the centre's on-site restaurant that will donate part of its takings for the month to the charity.
A sign-up sheet for the 'Off Peak Pink Walk' will be available at The Kinnet during opening hours, 7.30a.m. to 9.p.m. on Monday to Saturday. Alternatively, interested parties are invited to register by downloading an application form at www.thekinnet.com/en/promotions or by calling (852) 3968 7600.
