News

South African National Parks (SANParks) held a Cancer Awareness Walk on Tuesday, 24 October 2023 at the Wilderness Section of Garden Route National Park. The event aimed to raise awareness about cancer, celebrate survivors and provide support to those impacted by the disease.

October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Cancer Awareness Walk highlighted the need for healthier lifestyle choices, and urgent action to increase early-stage cancer detection, screening and diagnosis to significantly improve cancer patients’ chances of survival.

Over 200 participants, including employees from the Wilderness Section of Garden Route National Park and the community came together to walk from Wilderness National Park Ebb & Flow North Gate, following the historic Seven Passes Road to Wilderness, then looping through the village of the Wilderness business centre and finally returning to the Rest Camp via Waterside Road.

The event programme featured a presentation by Ms Sharon Venter, a representative of the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) and a cancer warrior, Ms Lynne Mc Ewan, a member of SANParks Honorary Rangers who talked about her journey of recovery. The clinic also conducted cancer-related tests and screenings.

“Cancer continues to affect our employees and their families. This walk is a testament to our commitment to the health and well-being of our staff, visitors and the broader community. Through events like the Cancer Awareness Walk, we can come together as a community to raise awareness, support those affected and ultimately make a difference in the fight against this disease. We extend our gratitude to everyone who participated and made this event a success,” said Dr. Sandra Taljaard, Park Manager at Wilderness Section of Garden Route National Park.

SANParks remains committed to supporting cancer awareness and survivorship, and with your support, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of those affected by the disease.