Jamaica Reach to Recovery (JR2R) is celebrating a record-breaking staging of its annual Pink Run, held on Sunday (November 16), at Emancipation Park.

Marking its 25th anniversary, this year’s event exceeded all expectations, surpassing both its fundraising target of J$25 million and its participation goal of 15,000 registrants. The Pink Run raised an impressive J$28 million, while nearly 16,000 Jamaicans registered to run, walk, and roll in support of breast cancer survivors across the island.

The 2025 Pink Run also showcased exceptional performances. In the overall male run category, Evans Tetteh finished first, followed by Kemar Leslie in second and Dominic Amponsah in third.

Among the overall women’s run category, Cecile Heinrich took first, followed by Florence Nafamba in second and Jovi Rose in third. In the overall male walk category, Kemal Amersingh and Daniel Daye tied for first place, with Javoy Dennis claiming third.

The women’s walk saw Abbigale Whyte capturing the top spot, followed by Deschanel Douglas in second and Torian Antonio in third.

In the wheelchair category, Vignette Green took first, followed by Sasha McKane in second and Ramone Taylor in third. Maureen Saunders, though registered in the wheelchair category, completed the course on crutches with one leg in an inspiring 68 minutes.

In addition to raising funds for breast cancer survivors, JR2R extended its mission of compassion to support families affected by Hurricane Melissa. Participants donated canned goods, non-perishable food items, toiletries, and other essentials, which were handed over to Food For The Poor (FFTP). Water was also generously donated by Catherine’s Peak. These contributions will support communities most severely impacted by the storm.

Sandra Samuels, president of Jamaica Reach to Recovery, described the historic turnout as a powerful testament to the nation’s unity and resilience.

“This year reminds us that when Jamaica comes together, we can achieve the extraordinary,” she said. “Surpassing both of our goals is more than a milestone; it is a reflection of the strength of our survivors, the generosity of our people, and the unwavering spirit of community that defines us. In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, our mission grew even bigger, and participants responded by showing up not just to support breast cancer survivors but to help families trying to rebuild their lives. This is the true spirit of Pink Run: Reaching Hearts, Restoring Hope.”

The urgency of early detection and awareness is underscored by recent local expert analysis, which shows that breast cancer remains the number one cancer affecting women in Jamaica. Jamaican women are being diagnosed nearly a decade earlier than women in the United States.

As many as one in every eight to twelve Jamaican women face a lifetime risk of developing breast cancer, and almost half of local patients are first diagnosed at stage three or four. These patterns indicate that breast cancer in Jamaica tends to be more aggressive, with higher-grade tumours and a greater prevalence of triple-negative cancers.

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness delivered remarks, celebrating breast cancer survivors, encouraging awareness, early detection, and community solidarity.

“I’m very impressed by the turnout for this event. Over 15,000 persons have registered; that’s excellent. There is something about survivors that transmits hope and energy, and I want to celebrate the survivors. We are gathered here to raise awareness of breast cancer. With early detection, a proper lifestyle of activity, diet, and a good mental health perspective, we can reduce the incidence of breast cancer,” he continued.

“I also want to pay my special respects to my dear friend and barber, a 26-year-survivor who has been a tower of strength for many and indeed the key brain and organiser behind the Pink Run and JR2R, a true champion, Sandra Samuels. As you walk today, you are walking for a purpose, for a cause, and I acknowledge you and salute you. Almost half of Jamaica has been devastated by Hurricane Melissa, so walk with purpose for them as well, and as much as you can contribute, please do,” said Holness.

Also present at the event was Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Christopher Tufton, who emphasised the importance of awareness and early detection in the fight against breast cancer.

“I want to commend all who are here today. This cause is very important to humanity and to every single Jamaican. Breast cancer affects the young, the old, men, and, of course, primarily women. What we need to do first is create more awareness, and that is what the Pink Run is doing. When we know, we must get screened, and early detection is the best way to prevent death from breast cancer. From the government’s perspective, we are doing a lot, but there is still more to be done. We now have more mammograms in the public health system. The National Health Fund is providing support for both screening and treatment. We have established more centres, including one in Manchester, so people no longer need to travel long distances. We are prepared to work with all agencies, NGOs, and citizens to continue these efforts. Today is about solidarity around a common cause. Breast cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Jamaican women, and we must do more to create awareness.”

The Pink Run has long been recognised as Jamaica’s premier breast cancer fundraiser, with proceeds supporting JR2R’s islandwide programmes. Funds raised each year help cover treatment costs, diagnostic testing, prostheses, counselling, and emotional support for breast cancer survivors who rely on the organisation for care.

JR2R extended heartfelt thanks to every participant, donor, volunteer, partner, and sponsor who contributed to the success of the 2025 Pink Run and recommitted to ensuring that no breast cancer patient faces their journey alone and to uplifting communities in need.