Bahamas News
CIBC FirstCaribbean Launches Walk for the Cure 2023 with $51,000 Donation
Nassau, Bahamas, 24th July 2023 – CIBC FirstCaribbean’s annual flagship fundraiser, Walk for the Cure (WFTC), generated $51,000 for major cancer care organizations across The Bahamas last year. Representatives from Sister Sister Breast Cancer Support Group, Cancer Society of The Bahamas and GD Sharing and Caring were recently
presented with the funds raised as the bank launched WFTC 2023.
Set for Saturday October 7th, this year’s walk will occur on New Providence, Grand Bahama, Abaco and Eleuthera. Each island will have a mini health fair with exhibitors and exciting vendors immediately following their Walk for the Cure event.
The funds raised from WFTC are primarily used to assist with the purchase and maintenance of equipment used in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients; and to provide assistance, care and counselling to patients and their families as well as to raise awareness, and stress the importance of early detection, through education campaigns regionally.
Helen Longley-Forbes, a 14-year breast cancer survivor and GD Sharing and Caring executive member, expressed thanks to the bank for its continued support and encouraged public participation because “every dollar goes a long way”.
“A lot of our group members don’t have medical insurance and the cost of cancer care treatment is very costly. The proceeds received from CIBC FirstCaribbean go a long way. We are able to assist with necessary scans, exams and even grocery needs, along with overall support which is critical,” she said.
Since the walk’s inception in 2012, CIBC FirstCaribbean has raised close to 4 million dollars across the region for the fight against cancer with the help of corporate sponsors, employees, clients, and members of the public.
CIBC FirstCaribbean’s Managing Director, Dr. Jacqui Bend, appealed to corporate Bahamas and the wider public to
partner with the bank to support Walk for the Cure and help raise critical funds to support those impacted by cancer.
“Walk for the Cure is a family-friendly health and fitness event. Last year’s walk saw a great turnout and we are looking to double those numbers this year as we help increase awareness about prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment of all types of cancer as well as funds for the fight against cancer. CIBC FirstCaribbean encourages everyone on the islands where CIBC FirstCaribbean has a presence to come out and support a great cause.”
Members of the public are encouraged to sign up to interact and walk with other participants while enjoying fresh air and great scenery. Registrants can make it a team activity by signing up with friends, family members or co-workers. WFTC registration is $25 for adults and $15 for children. Persons can register at any CIBC FirstCaribbean branch, or by emailing WalkfortheCureBAH@cibcfcib.com.
Additionally, individuals can stop into any CIBC FirstCaribbean branch and make a donation to the CIBC FirstCaribbean Walk for the Cure account. CIBC FirstCaribbean customers can also use the convenient first pay option when they log in to donate.
Photo Captions:
Header: During its Walk for the Cure launch of the upcoming October 7th event, CIBC FirstCaribbean presented $51,000 to cancer care organizations across the country. Pictured from left to right are GD Caring and Sharing executive member, Helen Longley-Forbes; Sister Sister Breast Cancer Support Group representatives, Carolyn Sweeting and Nurse Charlene McPhee; CIBC FirstCaribbean’s Managing Director, Dr. Jacqui Bend; Cancer Society of The Bahamas Founder and Director, Susan Roberts and Immediate Past President Dr. Williamson Chea and CIBC FirstCaribbean Walk Manager, Antionette Fox.
Inserts: Two photographs from previous Walk for the Cure (WFTC) events. On October 7th, 2023, individuals of all ages will participate in CIBC FirstCaribbean’s flagship fundraiser, WFTC on this islands of New Providence, Grand Bahama, Abaco and Eleuthera.
Bahamas News
Get your laugh on, March On, family drama by Gea Pierre, debut this weekend in Turks and Caicos
This is the sixth edition of the relays and the fourth time that The Bahamas has hosted the event, which actually made its debut in The Bahamas in 2014.
President, World Athletics, Sabastian Coe said after three very successful editions from 2014 to 2017, the World Athletics Relays has quickly become one of the World Athletics vibrant competitions, developing a culture of fun and innovation that gives it a unique flavour.
He thanked the Bahamas Government, the local World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 committee and the Bahamian people for agreeing to host the relays. However, his main thanks were to the “world’s best sprinters” travelling from all the continents to compete in preparation for the road to Paris, France, in two months’ time.
During the opening ceremony, the athletes were given words of advice from Carl Lewis, one of only four Olympic athletes to have won nine Olympic gold medals, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
He said, “Keep it simple, do not try to do anything extra. Do what your coaches said. Leave on time, leave on time, leave on time.”
The athletes and crowds were treated to the sounds and sights of Junkanoo at the end of the opening ceremony. The Junkanoo performers stuck around for the two days of competitions, playing for the sprinters as they competed on the track.
Teams competed in the Women’s and men’s 4x100m, and the women’s men’s and mixed 4x400m. A total of 14 teams at the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 automatically qualified for places at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Both days of competition were important, as day two offered another chance for qualifications for those teams unsuccessful on day one.
Bahamians were made proud as the country set a new national record during the mixed 4x400m relays thanks to the efforts of 16-year-old Shania Adderley, a student of Tabernacle Baptist Academy.
The team came first in their heat on Sunday evening after not being able to gain a spot for the Paris Olympics on the first day of competition.
Other sprinters on the team included Alonzo Russell, as well as Olympic champions Steven Gardiner and Shaunae Miller-Uibo.
NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his remarks at the Opening Ceremony for the World Athletics Relays 2024, on May 4, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis welcomed the special guests, athletes, officials, and “all lovers of athletics from around the world” to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium here in the “vibrant heart” of Nassau, Bahamas.
“This weekend, the world’s finest athletes gather on our shores to embark on a journey that is not only about speed and strength but also about dreams and determination,” Prime Minister Davis said. “From the serene beauty of our islands to the historic grandeur of Paris, this event marks a crucial path to the Olympic Games in Paris 2024.”
He added: “Here in The Bahamas, we are no strangers to world-class athletics or the warmth and exuberance that such international gatherings bring. It is a distinct honor to once again welcome the World Athletics Relays back to our islands. This event holds a special place in our hearts, symbolizing a bridge between nations brought together by the universal language of sport.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that that year’s theme, “Paradise to Paris,” captured the essence of that journey.
“It is here, amidst the splendor of our sun-kissed beaches and the rhythmic sway of our palms that the chase towards Olympic glory begins anew,” he stated. “We are thrilled to offer a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, where every sprint, every baton pass, and every victory lap is set against the picture-perfect canvas of our islands.”
He added: “To our athletes, I say this: as you stand on the precipice of your dreams, ready to catapult yourself into the annals of history, know that you are part of a legacy of excellence and determination. This weekend, you are not only competitors but also ambassadors of your countries and the spirit of sport. We are especially proud of Team Bahamas, who carry the weight of their performance and the hopes and pride of our nation. You embody the spirit of The Bahamian people, and we are behind you every step of the way.”
Prime Minister said that to the international visitors, he extended “the warmest Bahamian welcome”.
“Over the next few days, as you revel in the thrill of competition, take a moment to bask in the beauty of our island,” he stated. “Discover why we proudly say, “It’s Better in The Bahamas.” Whether it’s the hospitality of our people, the tranquility of our waters, or the rhythm of our culture, you are in for an experience that captures the heart and rejuvenates the soul.”
“Let us celebrate the unity and friendship that sports foster, cheering every athlete and savoring the spectacle of human potential at its best,” Prime Minister Davis added. “I hope the races are swift, the results are inspiring, and the memories are lasting.
“Welcome to The Bahamas, the paradise where champions chase their dreams to Paris. As your host, it is my immense pleasure to declare the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 2024 officially open. Let the games begin.”
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