Gorakhpur, March 21 (NationPress) - The Mayor of Gorakhpur, Manglesh Kumar Srivastava, announced that children from Gorakhpur and nearby regions who are diagnosed with cancer can now receive treatment at BRD Medical College. This initiative is part of the Uttar Pradesh government's commitment to enhance access to early cancer treatment, as stated by an official on Saturday.

Srivastava emphasized the urgency of raising awareness about recognizing the early symptoms of childhood cancer and the importance of seeking prompt medical care, reaffirming the state's dedication under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to strengthen health facilities for childhood cancer patients.

The Mayor, who is also a prominent BJP leader and serves as the Senior Vice-President of the All India Council of Mayors, participated in a vibrant cycle rally aimed at promoting awareness for childhood cancer.

He launched the Gorakhpur segment of the national initiative 'Cycle for Gold', which encourages community participation through cycling events. Srivastava noted, "When healthcare professionals, educational institutions, cyclists, and the community unite, it conveys a powerful message that children facing cancer are not alone in their fight." The rally covered an impressive 12 lakh kilometers across more than 417 cities with the participation of around 2,500 cyclists.

Initiated on World Cancer Day (February 4), this campaign, organized by CanKids, is recognized as one of the largest charity cycling challenges in the country.

As a medical practitioner, the Mayor joined forces with cyclists, medical professionals, students, and local communities in Gorakhpur, cycling from BRD Medical College to Gorakhnath Math.

Poonam Bagai, a member of the ICMR Central Ethics Committee on Human Research and the WHO South East Asia Region Representative for Childhood Cancer International, emphasized the significance of collaborative efforts, stating, "This movement showcases the strength of communities rallying together for children battling cancer."

Bagai, who is also the Founder Chairman of CanKids and Vice Chairman of Pallium India, highlighted their mission to enhance childhood cancer care by establishing statewide referral networks for diagnosis and treatment, training ASHA workers and healthcare professionals for early detection, and providing financial and social assistance to affected families.

Echoing the sentiments of Gorakhpur's Mayor, she expressed that 'Cycle for Gold' exemplifies what can be achieved when individuals across India come together for a shared cause.

Over the course of 40 days, cyclists from various cities, towns, and coastal areas rode collectively, from the scenic Marine Drive in Mumbai to routes extending from Goa to Karwar, and in places like Sangli and beyond.

Notably, in the Gorakhpur segment, there was enthusiastic involvement from doctors, nurses, and hospital staff from pediatric oncology departments.

The Gorakhpur rally commenced with Mayor Srivastava and BRD Medical College Principal R.K. Jaiswal flagging it off from the principal's office, proceeding to the District Magistrate's office.