Chandigarh, October 25, 2025: The Sukhna Lake came alive with Sahayta Charitable Welfare Society organising a Breast Cancer Walkathon or ‘Pink Walkathon’ under its ‘Pink October’ campaign as part of the Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2025. Hundreds walked to spread awareness about prevention, early detection, and cure related to breast cancer. Participants carried placards and banners with messages to make the public aware of the scourge of breast cancer. It is pertinent to mention here that Neelu Tuli was the Founder President of Sahayta Charitable Welfare Society and had passed away due to cancer on October 26, 2006. Notably, the ‘Pink Walkathon’ was started in Chandigarh first time by Late Neelu Tuli in the year 2005.
Dr. (Prof.) Bhavna Rai, Head, Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), flagged off the walkathon at Sukhna Lake, Chandigarh. The walk proceeded along the lake’s periphery and concluded at the start point.
On this occasion, Renu Saigal, President, Sahayta Charitable Welfare Society, delivered the welcome address, elaborating on the theme and significance of ‘Pink October’, she said that October is observed as Breast Cancer Awareness Month internationally, every year.
A cancer survivor herself, Renu Saigal shared that the World Health Organization (WHO) has set this year’s theme as ‘Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters’. She said that this theme highlights the personal nature of a woman with breast cancer’s journey and the need for quality care regardless of background.
Renu Saigal said, “The walkathon underlined the need for early detection of breast cancer. The message given out at the walkathon was that women should perform regular self-examinations and consult a doctor promptly in case they notice any unusual change or lump in the breast area.”
Wing Commander Ajay Tuli (Retd.), Administrator, Sahayta Charitable Welfare Society, said, “The Society is actively supporting cancer patients and promoting preventive health within the community. Our Society keeps providing needy cancer patients with financial aid as well as help in treatment at PGIMER.”
The walkathon saw participation from NSS students from different schools, NCC cadets, members of Carmel Ex-Students Association (CESA), members of Inner Wheel Club, Rotarians, eminent citizens, doctors & senior citizens among others. Breast cancer survivors also took part in the walk, displaying their victory over breast cancer, this certainly encouraged women who are currently battling the disease.
Certified Zumba expert Priyanka conducted an energetic Zumba session, helping survivors warm up before the walk and later guiding them through simple yoga exercises.Those who supported the walk included CESA, Jaquar and Testing Experts.
Renu Saigal also spoke about Sahayta Charitable Welfare Society’s work in the area of breast cancer awareness and detection; she said, “Apart from regular awareness activities on cancer, the Society conducted as many as 18 cancer screening and awareness camps in 2025 in association with Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital & Research Centre, New Chandigarh and Rotary.”
