Elekta Foundation Raises Funds, Awareness for Rwanda Women With Advanced Cervical Cancer

Forty Elekta employees have embarked on a 500 km (310.7 miles) cycle challenge to raise awareness and funds for women with advanced-stage cervical cancer in the Gicumbi district of Rwanda on behalf of the Elekta Foundation. Together, the team of cyclists has already raised more than $50,000 USD, making Ride4Rwanda the Foundation’s largest fundraising event since it was launched in early 2022.

The cyclists left Elekta’s office in the UK and will arrive in Amsterdam on September 17. Each participant has raised at least $1,200 USD so far and the top fundraiser will have the opportunity to visit the Elekta Foundation’s project in Rwanda and see, firsthand, how the Foundation works with key partners to eliminate cervical cancer in Rwanda.

One Elekta colleague, Fei Yin, who is riding from the UK to the Netherlands, says: “There’s no greater motivation than supporting an extraordinary cause and contributing to a positive global impact. This initiative demonstrates our commitment to supporting cancer patients, their families, and the medical community.”

Lacy Hubbard, President of the Elekta Foundation, says: “I’m overwhelmed by the interest, energy and commitment from Elekta employees in supporting our work in Rwanda. Earlier this year, Rwanda’s Minister of Health emphasized the need for early screening and treatment to eliminate cervical cancer in the country. These are exactly the initiatives that the Foundation is committed to. So, indirectly, the Ride4Rwanda cyclists are making a significant contribution to the health of people in Africa.”

Cancer is a leading cause of death in underserved countries, where access to quality healthcare is limited and resources are scarce. The Elekta Foundation, a philanthropic organization, is committed to closing the cancer care inequity gap and uphold the right to high quality and equitable healthcare for everyone. It has been implementing a campaign for cervical cancer prevention and treatment in the Gicumbi district since September 2022.