HUNDREDS of bikers from across Bahrain yesterday took part in a motorcycle ride to raise awareness of childhood cancer.
The event was organised by Future Society for Youth’s Smile Initiative as part of their Kids R Golden 9 campaign.
The drive, launched early September, aims to educate people across Bahrain about childhood cancer, symptoms and the importance of early detection. It also seeks to spread hope among families of children suffering from cancer and help them fight the disease with a smile.
More than 200 Bahraini and expatriate bikers from 17 Bahrain-based groups gathered at the Seef Mall at 7am, in solidarity with the ‘heroic cancer-stricken children’. The men and women wore ‘Smile’ T-shirts and a golden ribbon as they began their ride which ended at Ikea, Salmabad, at around 10am.
“The participation of bikers in our ‘Kids R Golden 9’ campaign reflects the sophistication, generosity and morals of our citizens and residents, who contribute to supporting others in addition to the development of the community,” said Future Society for Youth chairman Sabah Al Zayani.
“At ‘Smile’ we always welcome positive initiatives. Our volunteers spare no efforts to provide support and co-operation to achieve the ultimate goal of providing psychological and social support to children with cancer.”
Bahrain-based Desi Riders, with 50 members who have been riding since 2006, also took part in the campaign aimed at bringing the community together for a noble cause.
“It was an excellent feeling as bikers haven’t been able to gather in such large numbers since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Bahrain Desi Riders spokesperson Yasir Butt.
“Around 250 men and women from 17 Bahrain-based groups were invited by organisers. These events are important to raise awareness, show solidarity and support, foster society’s involvement as well as start conversations and dialogue on critical issues that affect the entire community. I’m glad I was part of the campaign.”
Mr Butt also emphasised the important role played by social media in spreading awareness and sharing positive information, knowledge and experiences. Proceeds from sale of T-shirts and ribbons were donated to the Smile Initiative.
According to the World Health Organisation, an estimated 400,000 children and adolescents develop cancer every year. Unfortunately, almost half of them reportedly go undiagnosed and untreated.
The most common types of childhood cancers include leukemia, brain cancer, lymphoma and solid tumours, such as neuroblastoma and Wilms tumours. In high-income countries, where comprehensive services are generally accessible, more than 80 per cent of children with cancer are cured. However, in low-and middle-income countries less than 30pc are cured.
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