Pink Caravan celebrates the Union of the UAE Under the theme "Seven Years For Seven Emirates"

The 7th ride of the Pink Caravan, a pan-UAE breast cancer awareness initiative by the Friends of Cancer Patients, FoCP, will take place next year under the theme, "Seven Years For Seven Emirates".

The slogan was approved by the Higher Organising Committee of the Pink Caravan, which promotes awareness about the importance of early detection of breast cancer. The 2017 Pink Caravan Ride will begin on March 7th, dispensing free health advice and free medical screenings to all community segments across the UAE before it wraps up its 10-day journey in Abu Dhabi on Friday, March 17th.

The slogan celebrates the Union of the UAE and coincides with the seventh anniversary of the inception of the Pink Caravan. Medical teams have travelled across the emirates to highlight the dangers of breast cancer and emphasise the vital role that regular check-ups play, helping to allay fears and dispel misconceptions related to the disease. Each year, over 100 experienced equine riders join forces, garnering support across different sectors, bringing together schools, universities, corporations, Pink Caravan ambassadors and royalty. Pink Caravan Ride to date has travelled over 1,420 km across the seven emirates, with over 350 riders, 500+ volunteers and 410 medical clinics offering early breast cancer detection examinations for 41,391 people, including 8,526 men. The Pink Caravan Ride has also visited 87 schools delivering educational sessions and lectures about the importance of early detection of breast cancer.

Reem BinKaram, Head of the Pink Caravan Events Committee, said, "Forty-five years ago, the founding fathers planted the Union tree and laid the foundations of the UAE. They, and the nation’s subsequent rulers, have made great strides towards a progressive and developed country which has earned a place in the modern world, and in many respects, plays a significant role in its future. In such a short time, the UAE is recognised across the globe as a dynamic, thriving nation and we are as proud of that progress as we are of our heritage."

"In March, it will be seven years since the first Pink Caravan Ride, which was launched in line with the directives of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, in keeping with the UAE's vision to ensure that all communities enjoy the best healthcare services and safety," BinKaram added.

She continued, "Seven years For Seven Emirates is a phrase that summarises our efforts and goals, and raises our values and principles. This theme bears clear indications that our determination will never fade, our commitment will never die and that unity will forever be our destiny. The Pink Caravan will work to its full capacity to ensure good health. It is a gift from Sharjah to all emirates in the country, and also a token of love and harmony among the people of UAE."

Since its inception in 2011, the Pink Caravan has provided support to cancer patients and their families and played a significant role in reducing the spread of breast cancer and diminishing its progression to advanced stages through free medical examinations. Over the past six years, it has offered free early detection screenings to 41,356 men and women of different nationalities and ages in the country.