“Cancer is particularly traumatic, painful, costly tragic,” Gov. Benigno R. Fitial said. “We don’t have to look far — many lives have been affected by cancer throughout our community.”
He added that he is happy to note that every year there are more people joining the event.
“We are here to honor our mothers, fathers, aunts, uncles, and beloved members of the family who have passed away from cancer,” Saipan Mayor Juan B. Tudela said.
“No one likes to hear the word cancer but we must all accept what the Lord has given us,” he added.
Tudela said cancer survivors are not alone in their fight against the disease.
“You are not alone, your family and love ones are always on your side, they will not leave you while you are struggling to survive and if you pass on, they will not forget you,” Tudela added. “I know this year is a tough challenge because of the weakened economy but despite the financial problems and the escalating costs of living, I believe people will continue to show support to help our cancer victims and survivors.”
Sixteen teams joined the event.
Six were in the corporate category: Pacific Islands Club, Tan Holdings Corp., PTI/Marianas High School, Hyatt Regency, Bank of Guam/Garapan Elementary School and Marianas Health Services.
The teams in the Pulan or family category were Ahu, Bodig and Magi.
Four teams joined the Atdao category or the government and non-government organizations: Marriage Encounter, Frenz gi Hinemlo, Hinemlo team of the Department of Public Health, and Northern Marianas College.
Three schools also participate: Grace Christian Academy, Whispering Palms School and Hopwood Jr. High School.
