‘Ride for Cancer’ Bike Rally organized by Fortis Healthcare and Harley Owners Group to raise awareness on cancer; culminates at Fortis Escorts Amritsar 

‘Ride for Cancer’ Bike Rally organized by Fortis Healthcare and Harley Owners Group to raise awareness on cancer; culminates at Fortis Escorts Amritsar  

70 participants from Harley Owners Club covered 600-kms ride, Flagged off at Fortis Gurugram, Haryana enroute Mohali, Ludhiana culminating at Amritsar   

Amritsar, February 2024: In an endeavor to create awareness about cancer, Fortis Healthcare yesterday flagged off the ‘Ride for Cancer’ bike rally from Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, at 7:00 am which culminated at Fortis Amritsar at 8:00 pm yesterday. Over 70 enthusiastic Harley Davidson Riders, comprising of cancer survivors, participated in the ‘Ride for Cancer’ rally, emphasizing early detection, treatment options, and the resilience needed to conquer the disease. 

Following the flag-off from Fortis Gurugram, the riders embarked on their journey to Fortis Mohali. Here, they were warmly received and acknowledged by senior oncologists, hospital staff, and Fortis management, underlining the hospital's commitment to cancer care. The ride continued from Fortis Mohali to Fortis Ludhiana and then further to Fortis Amritsar, where the rally concluded. This remarkable journey covered a total distance of approximately 600 kilometers in just one day. The event brought together esteemed senior oncologists from the Fortis Group, who shared their insights and perspectives on the significance of cancer prevention and care. 

Dr. Vishavdeep Goyal, SBU Head of Fortis Escorts Hospital, Amritsar, said, “The bike rally aimed to raise awareness about the prevalence of cancer in India while stressing the importance of early detection and regular screening. The rally was designed to inspire and support cancer survivors and patients, highlighting their courage and determination. It also fostered community engagement and support, representing more than just an event—it symbolized a movement towards a cancer-aware society. The 'Ride for Cancer' embodies hope, strength, and collective determination to conquer cancer. Fortis Healthcare's commitment, combined with the support of the Harley Davidson community, sends a powerful message in the battle against cancer. Together, they ride not only for awareness but for a future where cancer is no longer a feared adversary”  

Dr. Imran Khan, Associate Consultant - Oncology, Fortis Escorts Hospital Amritsar, said, “Riders and cancer fighters come together on World Cancer Day to support those in need and spread awareness of cancer. Riding longer distances is a way for bikers to spread awareness and inspire others to take up the battle against cancer. They can enable people to face the illness head-on and eradicate cancer from the planet by advocating for early detection and assistance.” 

Mr. Dhiraj Pal Kang, Blood Cancer Survivor shared his experience, “Cancer attempted to take many things from me, but it was unable to break my will. Dr. Imran Khan and Huma Noor's amazing care and knowledge gave me the strength to battle in addition to my inner power. Their dedication to my welfare served as a beacon, and when we faced each obstacle together, we did it with fortitude and optimism.” 

Sanjay Dawar, Another Bike rider who also is a Cancer Survivor, an enthusiastic social worker, a fitness enthusiast, a passionate lawn tennis player and had all in place for him until a few years back he was diagnosed with cancer. Sharing his journey Sanjay said “In 2017 I was diagnosed with Lymphoma cancer. Chemotherapy, radiation, and painful side effects were all about my life then. More than all the physical pain, it was a mental battle every day giving up on all his must-do activities. However, with zeal, mind, body, and soul, I gave cancer a tough flight and I was cancer-free in a matter of one year.  Today, I am an accomplished social worker who contributes to the betterment of old age homes, orphanages, and education of girl children, a popular healer, and a strong supporter of cancer patients & cancer survivors who need medical guidance and emotional support!” 

It's important to highlight that all the Fortis Hospitals covered in the bike rally have a Fortis Cancer Institute, featuring advanced state-of-the-art cutting-edge cancer treatment technologies and supervised by a dedicated team of senior oncologists who provide comprehensive care, covering every aspect from prevention and screening to palliative care, and post-treatment support. 

Cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality globally. India had 1.01 million new cancer cases and 0.68 million cancer deaths in the year 2012. The number of new cases is expected to rise by about 70% over the next 2 decades and it is the second leading cause of death globally.