In the presence of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, Founder and Royal Patron of the Friends Of Cancer Patients (FOCP), the Pink Caravan Ride (PCR) breast cancer awareness campaign by UAE-based civil society organisation, Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) begun its 10th annual ride Wednesday in Sharjah.

The Sharjah Ruler and his wife, Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi signalled the start of the ride at the Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club, where the opening ceremony was hosted.

“Society doesn’t develop and grow without combined efforts,” His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi said in his inaugural address, adding, “We want to pass on to our children the values of volunteerism and community service. We want to tell our donors and supporters that their contribution of AED 1 is worth one million when we put it in the hands of those who are tackling the increasing number of cancer cases in the UAE and around the world.”

The Sharjah Ruler added: “On behalf of Sharjah, Sheikha Jawaher has led tremendous efforts to establish several centres dedicated to cancer awareness, treatment and research around the world. Some are already operational and some others will be launched soon. In mid-March, the UAE will witness the launch of the Sharjah Cancer Research Centre for Cancer. Also, a new building for the National Cancer Institute in Cairo University will be inaugurated.

”Please thank Sheikha Jawaher for her tremendous efforts,” His Highness concluded, thanking Pink Caravan Ride’s longstanding partners for their continued and growing support to safeguard the health and wellbeing of people from all backgrounds in the UAE.

Addressing the ceremony’s attendees, Sheikha Jawaher said: “When I run my eyes over this group of riders, doctors, volunteers and partners, who will lead efforts of the 10th Pink Caravan Ride, I see a reflection of every human and cultural value our Emirati society is built upon. I am assured that the hope and determination you carry in your hearts will forever safeguard our future. Our nation’s continued progress is not based on material possessions, but an abundance of human wealth.”

“Today, as the Pink Caravan Ride enters its tenth year, your ambitions haven’t weakened. You have instilled awareness that wasn’t there 10 years ago; attracted more partners and supporters, given the same people the courage take control of their wellbeing who wouldn’t touch a taboo topic or did not know that breast cancer affects both women and men,” Sheikha Jawaher added.

Stressing that the Pink Caravan Ride’s work won’t end until cancer is eradicated, Sheikha Jawaher noted: “I urge all institutions, governmental and private bodies to collaborate and continue working for our homeland. In this context. I am pleased to announce that the campaign has a new partner and advocate, Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah Department of Government Relations, who will be serving as Special Envoy.”