Promoting health and well-being in the community, Gleneagles Hospital Penang continues to lead the way in cancer awareness and support.
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The hospital successfully hosted its annual Warrior Run at the Esplanade, Penang, uniting 5,328 participants in a meaningful effort to champion cancer awareness and support those battling the disease.
Themed “Fight in Strength for a Common Hope,” this year’s event emphasised the power of community in raising awareness and celebrating the resilience of cancer survivors.
The Warrior Run serves as a vital platform for promoting early cancer detection, supporting patients and survivors, while fostering collective solidarity in the fight against cancer.
This year, the event introduced a new 2.2km fun walk, which saw participation from distinguished guests including Penang youth, sports and health committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, Pertubuhan Wanita Mutiara Pulau Pinang chairperson cum Penang Chief Minister’s wife Tan Lean Kee and cancer survivors, all demonstrating their commitment to the cause.
Gleneagles Hospital Penang acting chief executive officer Ng Bong Seng explained that the event’s name, Warrior, symbolises the courage of individuals who have fought and continue to fight cancer.
“Through this run, we aim to celebrate these heroes and stress the importance of regular health screenings and early cancer detection,” he said in his welcoming speech.
Recent statistics from the Malaysian Oncology Society indicate a concerning rise of over 50 per cent in cancer cases and related deaths between 2012 and 2022.
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Cancer remains one of Malaysia’s leading causes of death, contributing to over 26 per cent of fatalities in private hospitals and more than nine percent in government hospitals, according to the 2023 Health Facts. Women account for 55 per cent of cancer diagnoses, with nearly half of all cases occurring among individuals aged 25 to 59.
In light of these statistics, Gleneagles Hospital Penang remains committed to raising awareness and supporting those affected by cancer.
“The Warrior Run brings our community together to celebrate the strength of cancer survivors and inspire others to take proactive steps toward better health.
“The journey to recovery is tough, but through events like this, participants find strength and show empathy for those affected by cancer, reinforcing the collective effort to battle this disease,” said Ng.
Gooi reinforced the importance of early cancer detection. “By prioritising early detection, seeking timely medical care, maintaining a positive attitude, with the support of family and friends, are key to overcoming cancer and living life to its fullest,” he said.
This year’s Warrior Run included two race categories — 6km and 12km routes — culminating in a demonstration of hope and resilience. The event also featured various health screenings, including glucose, blood pressure checks and further supporting the hospital’s mission of promoting health awareness.
The healthcare provider continues to be dedicated to supporting the local community in the fight against cancer, offering ongoing education, resources and support for patients, survivors and their families.
Also present were Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, Penang social development, welfare and non-Islamic religious affairs committee chairman Lim Siew Khim, Penang Island City Council mayor Datuk Rajendran Anthony, IHH Healthcare Malaysia regional chief executive officer (northern region) and chief operating officer Ivan Loh and other distinguished guests.
Join the healthcare provider in its ongoing efforts to raise awareness and make a difference. For more information about upcoming events and cancer screenings, visit gleneagles.com.my/penang.
-TheStar