Sharjah 24: For over a decade, the Pink Caravan Ride (PCR), the nationwide breast cancer awareness campaign completing its final leg of the 11th edition in Abu Dhabi, on Friday, has become a prominent event in the region, attracting widespread support and participation from individuals and organisations alike.

The distinctive character and traditions of the UAE influenced the concept behind the Pink Caravan Ride. Its horse riders embody the country's cultural heritage and serve as a magnet for spectators. PCR noble causes and its equines attracted Deutsche national Cristina Marz, trauma therapist and founder of Marz Method, who saddled up and trekked on Thursday in Ras Al Khaimah, encouraging residents and citizens to avail PCR free check-ups and raising awareness on breast cancer and the importance of regular screening.

"Using horses to raise awareness is a great idea to attract residents and visitors", Marz said, adding: "Equines can also be used to help cancer patients and their families who need emotional support. I advise cancer patients to get involved with horses because it is highly motivating and calming and would play a great role in overcoming the difficult challenges they are going through during the treatment." 

Horse rider Monika Kubik, Director of Marz Method in the UAE, said horses can help individuals understand more about themselves, "When cancer patients or family members are sad or going through hardships or grieving, their body language changes and felt by the horses, which can be therapeutic and help the individual bond with the horse without speaking a single word."

Through Marz Method, the two equestrians partnered with PCR to offer five free equine therapy sessions to cancer patients or family members.

On Thursday, Sheikh Mohammed bin Kayed Al Qasimi, President of the Department of Economic Development in Ras Al Khaimah.and Dr. Mona Al Ayyan, Director of Saqr Hospital, welcomed the pink brigade in the emirate as they campaigned from Saqr Hospital at 9:30 am, passing by Cove Rotana Resort and ending at Mina AlArab Lagoon at 4:30 pm before traveling to the capital Abu Dhabi for the last leg of the annual nationwide campaign.

The Daily Minivan welcomed residents and citizens at Saqr Hospital from 9am-3pm, as well as Al Quasim Corniche from 4pm-10pm, while the Pink Caravan Mammogram clinic offered its services during the day at Mina Al Arab from 1pm-7pm.

Day 7: Abu Dhabi
On Friday, the final leg of the 11th edition of PCR will take place in Abu Dhabi, starting at Oasis of Dignity Parking at 9:00 am, passing by the picturesque and tourist destination Sheikh Zayed Mosque and ending at Health Point, a Mubadala Health partner at 12:00 pm, with a grand closing ceremony at 6:30 pm in Al Hudayriat Island.

The Pink Caravan Mammogram clinic will be stationed at Zayed Sports City from 5pm onwards

In Abu Dhabi, while the Daily Minivan will offer screenings at Shaikh Zayed Mosque from 10am-4pm and at Yas Mall from 11am-5pm.

For more information about PCR routes and locations, please follow PCR on their social media platforms @thepinkcaravan.