Barrington Flemming, Sunday Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

Security officer Corey Dawkins crossed the line first in yesterday's second annual staging of the Kiwanis Club of Providence, Montego Bay, 5K Walkathon.The Kiwanis Club of Providence, Montego Bay 5K Walkathon 2012 attracted the support of close to 200 walkers, as the club sought to raise $250,000 to support the work of the Jamaica Cancer Society and to heighten awareness of breast cancer in Jamaica.

Project chairman Thadia Hemmings said she decided to support the effort after a close friend was stricken with breast cancer two years ago.

"I approached Yoplait Yogurt and they were so happy to come on board with us," she said.Breast cancer survivor Shernett Annon-Grant, who has been battling the illness for two years was a participant in the walk."This is my second walk and with each step, it reminds me of my journey fighting cancer, you just put one foot in front the other and you will reach the finish line. I take it day by day and I give God thanks," she said.

Another survivor, Sonia Cunningham, said: "I thank God that I was able to do this walk. I am battling breast cancer now for three years and nothing can stop me from making it through."

Monique Archibald who was diagnosed with breast cancer in June said she had always heard of cancer, but did not know it was this prevalent in the society until she was diagnosed.

Former senior medical officer, Dr Sheila Campbell-Forrester, who spoke with the walkers after the race said the walk was not only for fun but was also to highlight the seriousness and urgency of breast cancer awareness and treatment.

Breast Cancer is among the leading causes of death in women in Jamaica and the leading form of cancer, accounting for 29 per cent of all cancers in women locally.

Yulit Gordon of the Jamaica Cancer Society said she was very grateful for the partnerships they have managed to establish with the Kiwanis Club of Providence, Yoplait and various bottled water brands. She added that events like yesterday's provided an avenue for the society to increase their level of awareness of this particular type of cancer.