21st Orchid Walk on 28th April 2024

On Sunday, April 28, 2024, the 21st Orchid Walk took place in Dilekkaya Forest, organized by the Cancer Research Foundation (KAV) in collaboration with the CENGO-V Foundation and sponsored by Telsim. The event was a resounding success, bringing together hundreds of participants to raise awareness about cancer and support ongoing research efforts.

The walk commenced at 9:30 AM with opening remarks from distinguished guests, including Değirmenlik-Akıncılar Mayor Ali Karavezirler, Telsim General Manager Sefer Tüz, CENGO-V Foundation President Özge Özbekoğlu, and KAV President Prof. Dr. Mustafa Camgöz.

Mayor Karavezirler expressed his delight in hosting the walk for the second time, emphasizing its significance in raising cancer awareness and commending KAV and CENGO-V for their unwavering commitment to the fight against cancer.

Sefer Tüz, representing Telsim, the main sponsor for 11 consecutive years, echoed the importance of social responsibility and expressed Telsim’s pride in supporting the Orchid Walk. He encouraged participants to view the event as a symbol of unity, support, and determination in the collective fight against cancer.

Özge Özbekoğlu highlighted CENGO-V Foundation’s dedication to children and youth, emphasizing their educational and sports initiatives, park development, and the recent collaboration with KAV to support Prof. Dr. Mustafa Camgöz’s ongoing cancer research.

Prof. Dr. Mustafa Camgöz, KAV President, marked the 21st anniversary of the Orchid Walk, emphasizing its record-breaking participation and the unprecedented collaboration between KAV and CENGO-V. Despite the challenging week marked by air pollution and dust, Prof. Dr. Camgöz expressed gratitude to the unwavering participants and paid tribute to the “Champion Angels,” families affected by childhood cancer. He also urged the public to review KAV’s annual progress report, highlighting the 2023-2024 edition available in the walk’s goodie bags.

Concluding the opening remarks, Prof. Dr. Camgöz expressed his appreciation to the numerous sponsors, supporters, and volunteers, including Dima Discount, Girne Con Kahve, Play FM, and Değirmenlik-Akıncılar Municipality for their invaluable contributions. With a resounding “Let’s embark on this journey together!” he officially kicked off the 21st Orchid Walk.

TRNC President made a speech

President Ersin Tatar, gracing the event with his presence, delivered the closing speech, commending Prof. Dr. Mustafa Camgöz’s leadership in cancer research. He acknowledged Prof. Dr. Camgöz’s London-based efforts supporting local universities and students, further emphasizing the significance of the Orchid Walk.

President Tatar stressed the importance of prioritizing one’s health amidst the demanding and stressful modern lifestyle, encouraging regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mindful living. He concluded by wishing all participants a healthy life.

The 21st Orchid Walk concluded with a lively atmosphere, featuring prize draws, certificate presentations, performances by the Değirmenlik Akıncılar Municipality Folklore Group and the Dilekkaya Muhittin Tüzel Gymnastics Association, and a collective rendition of the inspiring song “You’ll Never Walk Alone.”

The Orchid Walk stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and community support in addressing cancer awareness and research. It serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to prioritize health and wellness, both individually and as a society.