CSA Reaffirms Commitment To Breast Cancer Awareness Through CMJAH

JOHANNESBURG: The Pink ODI Fund’s support towards Breast Cancer related programmes was on display for all to see when Cricket South Africa (CSA) representatives took time out to visit beneficiary hospital Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital’s (CMJAH) Breast Clinic on Tuesday.

The visit allowed the CSA team and commercial partners to witness first-hand the tireless effort medical professionals at the hospital dedicate towards fighting breast cancer, and to engage the patients who benefit from a significant portion of proceeds from the popular PINK ODI Match.

The Proteas Men first started playing in pink to raise awareness about breast cancer in 2013, with the DP World Wanderers hosting 13 Pink ODIs, including two in 2023. The Pink ODI Fund, a Public Benefit Organisation, was established to manage the donations made by fans and companies to support the nominated recipients who provide breast cancer health services.

“Through this annual visit, we honour the heroes who provide quality breast care to people from all walks of life, regardless of geography or income,” said CSA Chief Executive Officer, Pholetsi Moseki.

“This initiative speaks directly to our belief that sport has the power to change lives, not just on the field, but far beyond it.”

This year alone, the Pink ODI Fund has approved over R3.1 million in funding. This includes investment in critical research, upgrades to mammography equipment, and continued provision of refreshments for day patients visiting the Breast Clinic – making the patient journey just a little more comfortable.

CEO of CMJAH, Ms. Gladys Bogoshi, spoke passionately about the power of this partnership:

“This collaboration isn’t just about donations, it's about impact. Sport is a powerful form of therapy. Many of us didn’t understand cricket before, but now we’re fans. We watch, we cheer, and most importantly, we listen, because sport is being used here as a vehicle for education.

“We must measure this partnership not only in rands but in health outcomes. Years ago, women in SouthAfrica had a life expectancy of just 53. Today, it’s around 70. That’s the impact of collective efforts like this, where access to screening and care is free, where education is made accessible, and where hope is real.

“Our goal is to push that life expectancy to 75 in the next 25 years. That may seem ambitious for a developing country, but with support like this, it is possible.”

Moseki also echoed this sentiment:

“The awareness raised by Pink Day is just the beginning. We have a responsibility to open doors for our partners, new and existing, so they can witness the work being done here and be inspired to contribute, in whatever way they can.

“I’m heartened by how many people in our circle are already reaching out to make connections that extend beyond CSA. That’s the essence of this movement: building a network of support that truly changes lives.” Moseki concluded.

Source: cricket.co.za

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