Media Release
Dubai, Feb 13: A unique philanthropic fund-raising initiative labelled ‘Mercithon’ is being organized by St Mary’s Church to help several needy cancer patients of different nationalities. The day-long walkathon will take place at Creek Park on February 19 as part of the World Cancer Day initiative.
In 2017, the first Mercithon (A Walk for Hope) was organized to mark 50 years of Saint Mary’s Catholic Church. Over 12,500 people of different nationalities and religions came together to support the cause. A total of AED 575,000 was raised for the medical treatment of 6 cancer patients.
This year the requests have been overwhelming and more than 53 appeals for treatment have been received so far for patients from different religions from Pakistan, Philippines, India, Indonesia and Lebanon and the aim is to raise over AED 3.8 Million for their treatment by way of sponsorship and kind hearted support from the treating hospitals
Fr Lennie Connully, parish priest, St Mary’s Catholic Church – Dubai, said: “We are inspired by the vision of the UAE leaders, including the President Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and UAE Vice President & Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who have stood out as epitomes of generosity, and Mercithon blends wonderfully with UAE’s commitment to humanitarian causes and religious tolerance.
The recipients have been selected on the basis of their inability to pay for regular cancer treatment and some of those who have approached for assistance are:
• S.D. from Philippines who needs AED 427,000 for her treatment
• B.R. from the Philippines who needs AED 273,000 for her treatment.
• N.S. from Indonesia who needs AED 209,000 for her treatment.
• P.R.J. from Sri Lanka who needs AED 40,000 for her treatment
• A.R., a 22 year old young girl from India, P.D. from Pakistan, A.H. from Lebanon have not even been able to do her tests due to unavailability of funds.
Statement from Colm McLoughlin CEO, Dubai Duty free, "Happy that Dubai Duty Free can once again support this event. Hope you enjoy your time and realise that you are contributing to something very very important".
St Mary’s Catholic Church has been actively supporting the treatment of cancer patients for a long time and Mercithon will ensure that the cases of cancer patients, who cannot afford treatment, are highlighted so they can obtain regular financial support for their treatment, including chemotherapy and surgeries.
“We are seeking corporate support for raising the targeted amount for the treatment of patients. We are sure that companies and organisations will be generous in extending their support for this worthy cause. As cancer treatment is an on-going expense, we plan to make this an annual event on the church calendar to help those in need,” said Fr Connully.
Organised by the Samaritans Ministry and Youth of St Mary’s Catholic Church, at Creek Park on February 19 from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, the walk will begin at 9:00 am and will feature fun events, rides, games, food stalls, cultural activities, celebrities, music performances and raffle draws. The event has been approved by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department and supported by the UAE Dubai Municipality, Sports Council and Dubai Police.
Tickets for the event can be purchased in person at the church premises for AED 50 for Adults and AED 30 for Children aged 4 to 17, no charges for children below 4 and above AED 70.00. The ticket enables participants to be part of a lucky draw, in addition to a fun-filled day with the family.
The walk is open to people of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds. For more information please visit: www.mercithon.org