Last Sunday, the island of La Graciosa became a symbol of unity, struggle, and hope. More than 500 people participated in the IX Caminata Caminamos con el Cáncer [IX We Walk with Cancer Walk], organized by the Association of Oncohematological Families of Lanzarote (A.F.O.L.), on the occasion of World Breast Cancer Day. A day marked by solidarity, social awareness, and a firm commitment to health and life.
From the early hours of the morning, the esplanade of the La Graciosa dock witnessed an atmosphere full of emotion and purpose. At 10:30 a.m., the president of A.F.O.L., Carmen Arrocha, welcomed the 508 registered participants, who enthusiastically wore a t-shirt designed for the occasion by the young and talented designer from Teguise, Nela Hernández, along with a bottle of water as a faithful companion on the route.
Before starting the walk, the Manifesto for World Breast Cancer Day was read, a text that was widely applauded by all those present and that not only addressed the importance of early detection, but also demanded a firm and committed response from public institutions.
"Our health is not a matter of State," Carmen Arrocha emphasized during her speech, underlining the urgency of reinforcing "oncological research," reducing waiting lists, and expanding access to treatments that are already available in other countries. A.F.O.L. recalled that in Spain, more than 80 drugs are missing that are present in other European health systems, which represents an unacceptable gap in the fight against cancer.
She also appealed to the public to attend screening programs and diagnostic tests. "Don't leave it for tomorrow, it may be too late," was heard loudly amid the applause of the audience, recalling that early diagnosis is still the best tool to save lives.
They also warned about the worrying increase in cases of breast and uterine cancer in women under 40, which reinforces the need for health education, research, and prevention from an early age, with the collaboration of all institutional levels; from city councils to the autonomous community.
After reading the manifesto, the walk began. The route took the participants from the esplanade of the pier towards "El Sordo," skirting the charming heart of the town until reaching "El Salao" beach, and then returning along the shore of the beach to the starting point. The day was accompanied by almost summery weather, which encouraged many of the walkers to cool off in the crystalline and warm waters of La Graciosa, closing the day with a touch of well-being and enjoyment in community.
Carmen Arrocha wanted to express her gratitude for the institutional presence at the event, acknowledging the support of the Mayoress of Teguise, Olivia Duque, and members of the corporation, as well as the Councillor for Social Welfare of the Cabildo de Lanzarote, Marciano Acuña. The Arrecife City Council and the representatives of the shipping companies Líneas Marítimas Romero, Líneas Marítimas Biosfera Express, extending their solidarity by facilitating transportation between both islands completely free of charge.
The event achieved an approximate collection of 4,000 euros, funds that will serve to continue promoting the work carried out by A.F.O.L., an association that since 2001 has become a benchmark of support, accompaniment, and struggle for families facing the harsh experience of cancer.
Once again, A.F.O.L. deeply appreciates everyone's support in the fight against cancer. This chronicle not only captures the steps taken in La Graciosa, but also the indelible mark of 24 years of daily dedication, of constant effort by the entire A.F.O.L. team, its members and supporters, who with commitment and heart make it possible for hope to continue walking.
