ROTARY CANCER RUN IN GULU CITY CHAMPIONS EARLY SCREENING TO SAVE LIVES

 
Rotary cancer run participants during aerobics
 
By Proscovia Achomo

Gulu City
 
The Rotary Cancer Run over the weekend drew hundreds of participants in Gulu City, uniting residents, cooperate companies, health workers, and community leaders in the fight against one of the country’s most pressing health challenges –cancer.
 
Amid the energy and solidarity of the run, the central message was clear: “early screening saves lives.” Organizers and medical experts urged the public to prioritize regular cancer checks, stressing that timely detection offers the best chance for successful treatment.
 
“Many lives are lost because people seek medical attention when it’s already too late,” said a health advocate at the event. “If we can create a culture of early screening, we can reduce the burden of cancer on families and communities.”

Uganda continues to shoulder a heavy cancer burden. The country records roughly 35,968 new cancer cases and 24,629 related deaths annually, with more than 77,000 people living with the disease-and alarmingly, over 80% of the cases are diagnosed in advanced stages making early detection vital.
 
For some participants in Gulu, these figures are more than just numbers –they are personal stories. “I lost my mother to breast cancer three years ago because it was discovered too late.” Said Jennifer Ajok, one of the runners. “Today, I run to honor her memory and to encourage others to go for early screening. It can make a difference,” Ajok emphasized.
 
Among the most inspiring participants in the run was 72-year-old Peninnah Alum, a breast cancer survivor who joined the event not only to celebrate her journey but also to encourage others in the fight against cancer.
 
Speaking with heartfelt conviction, Alum shared a powerful message; "Cancer is like a thief — it strikes silently and without warning. My children, I urge you; whenever you hear of a cancer screening opportunity, please go. Early detection makes treatment easier and more effective. But if you ignore it, the disease can progress and cause immense suffering. Even if the first test shows nothing, yet you still feel unwell, go again — because cancer does not announce its arrival."
 
She continued, "If you are ever diagnosed, begin treatment immediately. Delays can be deadly. Those who have lived with cancer, or cared for someone through it, understand how painful and difficult that journey can be. But I want you to know this: cancer can be beaten. Be strong, stay hopeful, and never give up."
 
Alum's story served as a moving reminder of the importance of awareness, early detection, and unwavering courage in the face of adversity.
 
Speaking at the awareness run aimed at combating cancer, Gulu City Mayor Alfred Okwonga, highlighted the dual significance of the event. “This initiative is vital not only in providing support and services to that currently battling cancer but also in empowering individuals to take proactive steps in safeguarding their own health. By participating, you are not only fighting cancer in others—you are also fighting it in yourself,” Okwonga said.

He further emphasized the importance of preventive health measures; "Cancer can be prevented through four key lifestyle habits—regular medical screening, daily physical exercise, adequate rest, and maintaining a healthy diet. Let us continue to participate in such initiatives every year, and take personal responsibility in the fight against cancer."
 
Centenary Bank, a long-standing partner of the initiative, reaffirmed its commitment to the course. “We have proudly supported the Rotary Cancer Run for 14 years,” said a senior staff member. “This year we contributed shs 600 million, and we remain committed to ensuring that this vital initiative continues to thrive. Supporting early cancer detection and treatment is a course that aligns with our mission of impacting life positively.”
 
Gerald Obayi, District Governor Elect for Rotary Club of Gulu, expressed gratitude to the public for their strong support of the Rotary Club’s efforts, commending participants for their active role as warriors in the fight against cancer.
 
“You have decided that you are going to be a warrior in the fight against cancer and it’s a big step that you have made by participating in this run, you are saying no to cancer and saying a big yes to our effort to ensure that people do not die from preventable cancer and I thank you for being part of this great course. Together, we will be a greater force that will overcome all the challenges that we have out there,” Obayi emphasized
 
This year’s run was held simultaneously in major towns and cities across Uganda-including Kampala, Mbarara, Lira, Arua, Kotido, and Mbale among others-continuing to build momentum behind Rotary’s national health campaign.
 
This year, the Rotary Cancer Run also made headlines for setting a new fundraising records; 60,000 runners nationwide helped raise a staggering Ugandan 3.5 billion (approximately USD 900,000). The funds will go toward completing two specialized radiotherapy bunkers at the Rotary Cancer Centre in Nsambya Hospital – a critical component of Uganda’s expanding cancer treatment infrastructure.