MY WALK, MY JOURNEY, MY CHOICE:

On Saturday 27^th October 2012, everyone was focused on the Annual Cancer Remembrance Walk Event, sponsored by the Trinidad and Tobago Cancer Society and the Republic Bank, which was being held at the Queen Park Savannah Port of Spain. As a member of the Friends of Trinidad and Tobago Cancer Society, it was my social responsibility to support this memorable cause.

 

On the very same day, though, as part of my duties as a Community Development Officer,   attached to the Ministry of Community Development, I had to attend a Community Outreach Program which was a collaboration between my Ministry and the North Central Regional Health Authority.

 

This Outreach Program was held at the Maracas Bay Community Centre and I left that compound at approximately half past three in the afternoon. Although I was very exhausted, I was determined and committed to participate in the Walk.

 

When I arrived at the Queen’s Park Savannah, the Annual Cancer Remembrance Walk Event had already commenced so I just joined the walkers, because I wanted to support the journey for my “sisters” who were diagnosed with different types of cancer.

 

I walked from my Ministry’s Head Office, corner of Queens Park East and Jerningham Avenue, where I had parked my car, to Dere Street and back.

 

Some may say “But, Arlene yuh eh walk nuttin.”  In my defense, I must state that because I was heavily involved in the activities at the Maracas Community Centre, which had taken up most of my day, I was very tired.

 

However I knew I had to support the Walk, even though it may have been a short one (for me). I felt fulfilled because even though I was tired, I still found some time and energy to take part because it was a promise I had made to many others and especially to myself.

 

As I walked, I prayed for the survivors and for those we had lost.

 

I was truly inspired by the many participants - both young and old, who had taken the time from their busy schedule to participate in the Walk.

 

I was very thankful that I could have made a difference in my own way- as a supporter.

 

It was enlightening to be able to do something that might assist in promoting Cancer Awareness – that will help others and remember those who had died.

 

I had walked…

 

I did my part.