The GaDangme Association of Washington Metro Area commenced its 40th Anniversary Celebration with an Open Health Walk and Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign on Saturday, 19th October 2024 at Burnt Mills West Park, 10701 Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, in Maryland.
The anniversary is also known as a Ruby Jubilee. The Ruby is the traditional symbol for the 40th anniversary, representing passion, loyalty, and devotion. Therefore this celebration will not just be a reflection of the past four decades, but a testament to the resilience, spirit, and commitment of the GaDangme people.
According to Chair of the GaDangme Association of Washington Metro Area Rowina, Naa Odarkai Lamptey Moses, celebrating our four decades of impactful existence, with the 40th Anniversary Open Health Walk and Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign was a landmark event that brought together the community in a powerful display of unity and commitment to health.
The event was more than just a walk, it was a day of unity and purpose and a heartfelt effort to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote overall health and well-being.
The health walk began early in the morning, with participants from all walks of life gathering at the starting point, united by a shared purpose. The atmosphere was electric, filled with the excitement of participants ready to embark on a journey that symbolized not only physical health but also communal solidarity.
The walk was meticulously organized, with routes tailored with music to varying levels of fitness, ensuring that everyone participated, regardless of their physical condition.
In parallel with the health walk, the event prominently featured a breast cancer awareness campaign. Dr. Tabot Mpey, Cardiovascular Fellow at the Howard University Hospital in Washington D.C, medical professionals and volunteers provided crucial information about Cardiovascular, and breast cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment options.
Free screenings were offered, allowing participants to check for any signs of breast cancer, which is key in early diagnosis and successful treatment, checking vital signs and Blood Sugar Checks.
The healthcare experts also discussed the importance of regular health check-ups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Survivors of breast cancer shared their inspiring stories, highlighting the significance of awareness and early detection.
Their narratives were a powerful reminder of the event’s purpose and left a lasting impression on all who attended.
Michelle Greene, a Yoga instructor or a fitness and wellness professional was in attendance and performed various stretching poses and practiced meditation that connects the body, breath, and mind.
Michelle used physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to improve the overall health of members which lasted about an hour. Yoga was developed as a spiritual practice thousands of years ago and includes three basic components Breathing, Poses, and Meditation.
Yoga improves strength, balance, and flexibility, helps with back pain relief, can ease arthritis symptoms, benefits heart health, relaxes you, helps you sleep better, can mean more energy, and brighter moods, and reduces stress.
Rowina Naa Odarkai Lamptey Moses emphasized that the event was a testament to the power of the GaDangme Association of Washington Metro Area collaboration with Goldstar Air, Krowbw House, and Taptap Send contributed by supporting the event, providing refreshments, and participating in the walk.
The collective effort demonstrated how communities can come together to support important causes, amplifying the reach and impact of the awareness campaign.
Over the past 40 years, the GaDangme Association of Washington Metro Area has achieved significant milestones in education, healthcare, and economic development. These achievements are a testament to the Association’s collective efforts to improve the quality of life for its members.
As the day ended, it was clear that the 40th Anniversary Open Health Walk and Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign had left an indelible mark on the community. The event not only celebrated 40 years of achievement but also set a precedent for future health and awareness initiatives.
It reinforced the importance of coming together for common causes and showcased the profound impact of collective action.
The legacy of this event will continue to inspire and drive efforts toward a healthier and more informed community. By promoting health and raising awareness about breast cancer, the event has laid a strong foundation for continued advocacy and support in the years to come and the beginning of a series of events that will climax with Fundraising, Dinner Dance, and Awards Night that will recognize achievements and provide an opportunity for networking and advancement of the Association, followed by a church service next year September 2025.
