CIBC Caribbean urged Jamaicans to join the fight against cancer as it officially launched the 13th annual 5k Walk for the Cure scheduled for October 6 at the Hope Botantical Gardens in St Andrew.

The organisers said that this year’s event, being held under the theme ‘Caribbean Strong: Walking for Resilience’, is expected to be the largest yet and aims to raise funds for cancer awareness, prevention, and treatment throughout the region.

Jerome Griffiths, head of human resources at CIBC Caribbean, opened the launch at Terra Nova All-Suite hotel in St Andrew on September 17 with a heartfelt address, emphasising the importance of the walk for both cancer survivors and people who have lost loved ones to the disease.

She highlighted that this year’s walk symbolises recovery — not just from cancer, but also from the many challenges the Caribbean faces, such as the devastating effects of Hurricane Beryl in July.

“Our 2024 mantra is ‘Bigger and Better.’ We’re thrilled to partner with Running Events Jamaica to help drive our mission of raising much-needed funds for cancer organisations across the Caribbean,” Griffiths said.

“This year’s slogan, ‘Caribbean Strong: Walking for Resilience’, speaks to our region’s strength in adversity, especially in Jamaica, where we walk in lavender, representing hope and unity in the fight against all cancers,” she added.

Keynote speaker Shaniel May Brown, a cancer survivor and attorney-at-law, moved the audience with her personal journey of the physical toll of her battle with the disease after being diagnosed at age 21.

“It’s an absolute pleasure to be surrounded by a room of cancer fighters, survivors, and most importantly, supporters,” she said.

Brown said the event’s theme this year resonates deeply with her as it “represents our collective strength, courage, and unyielding hope. Together, we can face any challenge. It’s not easy; it’s a journey. It never ends. Some days you’re reminded by the scars you carry or the fear of recurrence, but resilience is what pulls us through. Recovering from cancer surgery has been the hardest thing in my life, but I found the strength to keep going.”

Crystal Blackwood, representing Continental Baking Company on behalf of the event’s sponsors, expressed the company’s unwavering commitment to the cause.

“This year, as we come together for the 5k run and walk, we are not just participating in physical activity; we are standing united in support of those affected by cancer and advocating for research, awareness, and hope. Sponsoring the CIBC Walk for the Cure was a no-brainer for us. We are committed to promoting health, wellness, and community engagement, and we are proud to stand alongside all of you today.”

The 5k run and walk has raised more than US$5 million across the region since its inception. These funds have gone directly to support cancer treatment centres and organisations across the Caribbean.