Over 4,000 people from all walks of life participated in the initiative that applauds the survivors and supports the fighters.
In a bid to create awareness about cancer and to show solidarity for those who are fighting against the deadly disease, 'Walk For Life' event was organised in the national capital on Sunday.
The walk was flagged off by Mrs Sangeeta Jaitley, wife of Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley at the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium.
Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and Congress politician Priya Dutt attended the event where thousands had gathered to walk and run in solidarity with cancer patients.
Speaking to NDTV, Ms Dutt highlighted the need for homecare for cancer patients and said, "palliative care is vital while battling cancer because it forms a support system for the patient and the family giving them an extension of life and helps people move on with dignity."
Sureshbala Verma, a 68-year-old cancer survivor, was among those who lined up at the 'Walk For Life' event. Recalling her struggle and the stigma associated with the disease, the Saharanpur resident said she was abandoned by her family when she was first diagnosed with cancer. Her four sons left her to travel to Delhi alone the treatment.
Remembering the day says, Mrs Verma said, "I told myself, I will fight cancer and with a positive attitude underwent treatment. I run every year since the diagnosis and if I make it to next year, I will participate in the event again."
Now, with a positive attitude, she educates fellow cancer patients about detection and support mechanisms available to make the recovery journey smooth.
In India, cancer has become one of the leading causes of death. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, there are over 2,00,000 people in Delhi suffering with cancer, 10,000 die each year and a disheartening 80% of the patients are only diagnosed when they are in the 3rd or 4th stage of cancer.
The highest prevalence rate of cancer is in the national capital and the root cause of it being a shift in lifestyle choices and lack of supportive healthcare.
Over 4,000 people from all walks of life participated in the initiative that applauds the survivors and supports the fighters.
The event also supports CanSupport, an initiative founded by Harmala Gupta that provides free homecare and daycare services to cancer patients.
A team of doctor, nurse and a counsellor visits the home of the patient and not only provide medical assistance but also counsels the families.