A successful return

After suffering bad weather during their first edition of the run and organising a virtual run – participants could send in photos of their run or walk - in 2020 due to Covid, the 2021 event turned out to be a success for Think Pink Luxembourg: over 200 people were able to run in pleasant, sunny weather around the scenic Echternach lake.

Though the event gathered many runners, it was not a competitive event, but a collaboration. “Race for the Cure® is not a race against competitors, but rather a race against time. It is a race to find a cure for breast cancer,” states the official press release by Think Pink Luxembourg (TPL). Although it was a race, organisers took their time making sure that the CovidCheck event was environmentally friendly: “It did not use plastic number bibs, balloons, single use plastics, disposables or chemical toilets on this occasion. Participants were requested to bring their own drinks,” so as to avoid the use of plastic water bottles and cups.

A focus on research and support

The run is one of many events planned by the organisation, which teams up with Think Pink Europe for an easier access to information on cancers affecting women, best health care practice and research. Among the 400 women diagnosed every year, Aside from the Race for the Cure, the volunteer-based structure participates in the ING Night Marathon and organises a Ladies’ Night, as well as initiates information and support sessions for women living with cancer.

So far, the organisation has raised €180,000 between 2009 and 2018, according to . Aside from donating to research through the Marian Aldred Award, TPL creates “Think Pink Guide Books” to accompany women in Luxembourg who live with cancer, and shares their funds with other cancer charities.

Even though so far the TPL team remains small, they are always on the lookout for anyone with time or skills to donate. Anyone who cannot do so but wishes to support the cause, can do so by joining the next fundraiser or donating directly to the charity.