MUDHI ALOBTHANI (SHARJAH)
Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) brought renewed energy to breast cancer awareness as its vibrant community event returned for a second edition. The Pink Caravan set up its hub in Sharjah’s Aljada area, offering visitors free screenings alongside a variety of family-friendly activities and live performances.
The three-day event was part of the nationwide “Pink October” campaign, aimed at raising awareness about early breast cancer detection and fostering a culture of health and wellbeing across the UAE.
Rashed Al Ameri, Head of Corporate Communications at FOCP, described this year’s edition as “our most comprehensive yet, with a true nationwide campaign focused on early breast cancer detection and awareness.”
He added that the Aljada event had been carefully designed to “serve as an engaging hub of health and community spirit — offering not only free screenings but also interactive awareness sessions, live entertainment, and dedicated kids’ zones.”
Blending health awareness with family-oriented entertainment was an intentional move to create an experience that is both welcoming and educational, Al Ameri said.
“When people are relaxed and happy, they are more open to learning and taking proactive steps for their health,” he said. “By creating a celebratory, family-friendly atmosphere, we remove the stigma and fear associated with cancer screenings. It’s about meeting the community where they are.”
The free medical check-ups — which included clinical examinations, mammograms, and ultrasounds — offered at the event remain the cornerstone of Pink Caravan’s mission.
“Awareness alone is not enough; it must be coupled with accessible services,” Al Ameri said. “Every free check-up is a potential life saved through early detection.”
In addition to screenings, the event featured educational sessions and interactive workshops aimed at empowering the public with knowledge about self-examination and regular check-ups.
“These sessions are designed to be practical, engaging, and easy to understand,” Al Ameri said. “We want every visitor to leave not only screened but also informed and confident about maintaining their health.”
Promoting a holistic approach to wellness, the event also featured sports and health activities that encourage a balanced lifestyle. The goal, he added, is to create a culture of prevention that extends beyond screenings.
“At our events, you’ll find activities that get the heart pumping and reinforce the message that taking care of your body is a lifelong journey.”
For families taking part in the event, children’s zones and games served a dual purpose — keeping young visitors entertained while instilling positive attitudes toward health. “When parents can bring their children to a safe, fun environment, it eliminates a major hurdle to attending,” Al Ameri said. “It also plants a seed: children who see their parents prioritising health grow up with that same awareness.”
Visitors also enjoyed a unique shopping experience at the Manbat Market, where part of the proceeds directly supports FOCP’s mission. “All our vendors offer healthy food and beverage options, aligning the entire experience with our message of holistic wellbeing,”Al Ameri said. The Aljada event was held from October 10 to 12.
Reflecting on the broader mission of FOCP, he explained that the Pink Caravan is a vital component of the organisation’s preventive and awareness efforts.
“Our mission is not just to treat cancer but to prevent it where possible and catch it early when it occurs,” he said. “By mobilising communities and offering free screenings, we’re reducing the future incidence of late-stage cancer and ultimately saving lives.”