Walk-A-Payung 2009

“Sooo, what do you know about Systemic Lupus Erythematosus?” asked a friend of mine. I shot a blank stare at her. I half expected her to tell me right away, but it was apparent that she wouldn’t explain. Yet. “Well, I know that it’s never lupus,” slyly inserting a subtle House MD reference, hoping that she would catch it, and catch it she did. She didn’t find it amusing.

This morning, when I interviewed 23-year old student Nadia, her reaction was similar to mine. Her understanding of SLE was just slightly higher than mine. Of course, people always say that something is better than nothing. Nadia only knew that SLE patients have to avoid the sun, hence the umbrella walk (chill with the vampire jokes, guys), and that SLE patients often suffer from the “butterfly” rash.

Based on the two scenarios, it is apparent that SLE is not as well known as diabetes mellitus, hepatitis or any other major diseases for that matter. At least not in Kuching. That is why the Walk-A-Payung event was organized by Persatuan SLE Malaysia, with hopes of perking the public’s interest in finding out more about SLE and how we may help them.

Getting looks from people was the least on my mind, as I, along with roughly 200 more people, paraded around town this morning in red t-shirts and silver umbrellas on our shoulders. In fact, we got more than just double takes. Some of them even cheered for us, while waving their hands as they drove past us.

When interviewed, teacher/blogger Cyril joined the walk to help raise awareness on SLE, which is something he has only heard about in TV shows. He has learned much from the event, and stated that the event achieved huge success, although more publicity would not hurt. Since the Walk-A-Payung is a charity-driven event, Cyril didn’t mind forking out the money just to walk 4 kilometers under the bright Sunday sky. He also brought along his partner, Amiey, to walk with him.

Amiey, who joined her first charity event today, felt that carrying the umbrella fulfills the objective of the event. She states that there should be more public charity events like these to make sure that  people are aware of these medical conditions. More people equals more funds, and these funds can be used to assist the needy. Funding is very important indeed. SLE, for your information, is a serious disease. Basically having SLE means that your own body’s immune system would turn against you. There is no single lab test for it and it takes years to determine whether someone has lupus or not.

Like Nadia, the couple arrived early to make sure that they wouldn’t be disappointed. The group, 200-something large, left the grounds of the amphitheater at 8am and their path brought them along Ban Hock Road, the city centre, the waterfront, Merdeka Palace then back to the amphitheater, but not before climbing the last hurdle which was the hill near Resevoir Park.

Lupus The Walk-A-Payung event is held annually and this is the third year it has been held (first year in Kuching). All three of them: Cyril, Amiey and Nadia, are willing to do the walk a 2nd time. They also said that they will definitely bring their friends along if situation allows.

That being said, will you be there to walk with them when the time comes?

Shiok! is in support of PSLEM’s efforts. For more information on the event or even the disease itself, do visit Persatuan SLE Malaysia’s website.

1. 

   Cyril says:

   December 13, 2009 at 11:24 pm

   oh my… i forgot to do Mike’s ‘Chest out tummy in’ when u were taking my photo.. =P

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2. 

   Cyril says:

   December 14, 2009 at 1:07 pm

   err… do correct my link, its suppose to be http:/cyrildason.com =) Thanks.

   reply
   • 

     Swagger says:

     December 14, 2009 at 1:09 pm

     Updated! :D

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3. 

   NADIA N.J says:

   December 18, 2009 at 11:48 pm

   i am so going to participate again next time. =))

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     Swagger says:

     December 22, 2009 at 4:14 pm

     And we’ll see you again next time! :)

     reply