Hope, Strength, Awareness: Alheri-YS Foundation Leads 2025 Breast Cancer Walk, Free Medical Outreach in Bauchi
By Beatrice GONDY, Bauchi
The Alheri-YS Foundation, in collaboration with Non Governmental organizations and Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), on Saturday, October 18, 2025, organized the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Walk and Medical Outreach in Bauchi to promote early detection, education, and support for survivors.
The awareness walk, which attracted over 2,000 participants, began at the Arrandess Sports Arena and ended at the Destination Hotel.Participants wore pink T-shirts and ribbons as a symbol of solidarity and hope for those affected by breast cancer.
Prior to the walk, the foundation hosted a free medical outreach at the Teaching Hospital where more than 250 women received clinical breast examinations, blood pressure checks, and counseling sessions conducted by medical professionals from ATBUTH and the Bauchi State Specialist Hospital.
Delivering a health talk during the outreach, Dr. Habiba Ismail, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at ATBUTH, emphasized the importance of self-examination and regular screening.
“Breast cancer is not a death sentence if detected early,” she said.
“Many women in Nigeria report late because of fear or cultural beliefs. What we want every woman to know is that early detection saves lives. Every woman should examine her breasts monthly and seek medical advice if she notices any changes.”
Dr. Hauwa also urged men to support their wives, sisters, and daughters in seeking regular check-ups, stressing that awareness and family encouragement are key to overcoming the stigma around breast cancer.
The event took a deeply emotional turn when, a breast cancer survivor, Elizabeth Kah, shared her story. She narrated how early screening saved her life after she discovered a lump Twenty two years ago and sought prompt medical help.
“When I was diagnosed, I went through the treatment and I was lucky it was an early diagnosis because I had knowledge of self examination,” she recalled. “But with early treatment and the support of my family, I am here today, healthy and strong. I stand here to tell every woman: do not be afraid, do not hide it, and do not delay. Cancer can be defeated.”
Her testimony received thunderous applause and left many participants visibly moved, reinforcing the day’s message of hope and courage.
The Executive Director of Alheri-YS Foundation, Alheri Yusuf, expressed appreciation to all partners, volunteers, and health institutions that supported the initiative. She said the foundation remains committed to empowering women through health education, screenings, and advocacy.
“This year’s theme, ‘a Walk of faith for a future without breast cancer' is a reminder that awareness must go beyond October. We must continue to educate, screen, and support women in both urban and rural communities,” she stated.
She also appealed for more investment in cancer diagnostic equipment and subsidized treatment for low-income women.
“We will strengthen our partnership with the private sector and medical professionals to make cancer screening more accessible in all 20 local government areas,” she said.
This year’s event marked a significant increase in participation and awareness compared to previous editions. Organizers announced plans to extend future medical outreaches to rural communities across the state and establish a dedicated breast cancer support network for survivors.
The event ended with a symbolic release of pink balloons, representing hope, healing, and unity in the fight against breast cancer.
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CANCER AWARENESS