The third edition of the 'Walk for Pink Ribbon' attracted over 2,700 participants to Maasmechelen, in Limburg, on Whit Monday, marking a successful event in support of the fight against breast cancer.
Walkers participated in routes ranging from three to 34 kilometres, which took them through the mining district and the Hoge Kempen National Park. For the first time, they had the opportunity to cross the new pontoon bridge between the mining heaps.
In 2024, the event, organised in collaboration with Walksport Vlaanderen, had a total of 1,750 participants. This number significantly increased to over 2,700 this year.
"One in eight women faces breast cancer at some point in her life. Those who join the 'Walk for Pink Ribbon' support Pink Ribbon, as proceeds go directly to initiatives promoting breast cancer prevention, early detection, and patient support," said Ruth Geysen, spokesperson for Belgium's non-profit, Pink Ribbon.
In addition to supporting breast cancer programmes, the walk also benefits the health of the participants. "One in three cancer diagnoses can be avoided with a healthy lifestyle," explained Geysen.
Among Monday’s participants was Marian Verstraelen, who was diagnosed with breast cancer last September. After undergoing necessary procedures and treatments, she is recovering and embarked on the 16-kilometre route with her husband and friends.
Aware of the challenge, Verstraelen received encouragement from family, friends, and colleagues, who donated to Pink Ribbon’s fundraising platform, contributing a total of €1,681.
