Fortis Healthcare and Harley Owners Group unite for 'Ride for Cancer' to Raise Cancer Awareness

Ludhiana, February 3, 2024: In an endeavor to create awareness around cancer, Fortis Healthcare today flagged off the ‘Ride for Cancer’ bike rally from Fortis Hospital, Ludhiana. The flag-off was done by Dr. Vishavdeep Goyal, Head-SBU, Fortis Hospital Ludhiana, under the presence of Cancer Survivors, Fortis Senior Oncologists, and Senior Leadership. 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 Ludhiana. 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 Ludhiana 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. Davinder Paul, Senior Consultant, Fortis Hospital, Ludhiana, said, “On World Cancer Day, riders and cancer survivors united to support those in need and raise awareness of the disease. Observing World Cancer Day serves as a poignant reminder of our shared need to raise awareness of the benefits of early detection and preventative healthcare practices. Early detection is our greatest ally in the fight against cancer. Together, let's raise awareness, promote routine screenings, and cultivate a self-care culture. By acknowledging the significance of early detection, we enable people to take control of their health and build an environment in which prompt action can reverse the effects of cancer.”

Dr. Vishavdeep Goyal, Zonal Head, Fortis Ludhiana, said, “I want to congratulate all the 80 fierce riders and celebrate their spirit of adventure to fight all odds and their enthusiasm for adventure. To defeat cancer, early detection is crucial. Let's join forces on February 4th, World Cancer Day, to encourage routine screenings and increase public awareness of the illness. Keep in mind that our chances of defeating cancer increase with early detection and personalized treatment.”

A female Cancer Survivor, Fortis Ludhiana, said, “I ride to overcome obstacles thrown at me by cancer, not merely to log more kilometers. Accompanying Fortis Healthcare and the Harley Owners Group on the 'Ride for Cancer' is more than simply a road trip—it's an expression of hope, survival, and fortitude. Together, we're speeding towards a time when cancer submits to the spirit of oneness and early detection is the norm. This 600-kilometer ride is more than just a rally; it's a powerful symphony that reverberates at Fortis Escorts Amritsar and throughout Delhi and Punjab. As we ride our bikes on the roadways, we take on the role of awareness ambassadors, using them as tools for change. Let's ride together to overcome the distance, the stigma, and the darkness cancer leaves behind.”

The oncology team of Fortis Ludhiana was also present – Dr. Davinder Paul, Senior Consultant - Medical Oncology; Dr. Praveen Kaur, Additional Director - Radiation Oncology; Dr. Harish Matta, Additional Director - General & Onco Surgery; Dr. Anish Bhatia, Associate Consultant - Surgical Oncology; Dr. Ravinder Singh Sidhu, Senior Consultant - Nuclear Medicine of Fortis Ludhiana. 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.