The 22nd Orchid Walk, an annual event organized by the Cancer Research Foundation, took place this year in Lefke under the slogan “I’m walking against cancer.”
The walk, which has become a symbol of public solidarity in the fight against cancer, was held in collaboration with the Süleyman Cengiz Eminoğlu Foundation, with Telsim Vodafone as the main sponsor and support from Lefke Municipality.
The event began with a lively programme at Lefke Atatürk Park. Local folk dance performances by the Lefke Municipality Dance Group, a tai chi warm-up session led by Tarık Tekman, and various other activities created a festive atmosphere.
Stalls selling local products also attracted attention from visitors and participants alike.
The walk itself started from in front of Lefke Atatürk Park, offering participants a choice between a 7.5-kilometre long route and a 4-kilometre short route.
Walkers had the opportunity to take in the historic and natural beauty of Lefke along the way.
Among the notable attendees was First Lady Sibel Tatar.
According to a statement from the Presidency, the Presidential Committee on Science and Health set up an information booth at the event and distributed informative booklets titled “Questions and Answers on Cancer Awareness,” prepared by the committee’s chair, Prof. Dr. Füsun Yıldız, and a team of experts.
Sibel Tatar visited the booth and voiced her support for the campaign.
Speaking at the event, Lefke Mayor Aziz Kaya expressed his pride in hosting such an important initiative, and praised the meaningful work of both foundations involved.
Telsim Vodafone General Manager Sefer Tez highlighted the company’s commitment as the main sponsor for the past 13 years and said they were honoured to support such a cause.
Özge Özbekoğlu, Chair of the Cengiz Eminoğlu Foundation, spoke about their efforts over the past five years to support the wellbeing of children and youth while preserving Cypriot culture.
Mustafa Camgöz, Chair of the Cancer Research Foundation, emphasized that their foundation remains the only institution in the country conducting cancer research at various levels.
He announced that this year’s funds raised from the event will go towards supporting a research project on neuroblastoma, a form of childhood cancer.