UnderWear Affair

by Megan McLeod
(Vancouver)

Protestors in panties picket against underwear cancers

Mock demonstrators form picket lines in underwear to raise
awareness for BC Cancer Foundation’s 2009 Underwear Affair


April 29, 2009 (Vancouver) - Pedestrians and motorists passing by Robson and Howe Streets witnessed an unusual spectacle this afternoon. A scantily-dressed gang of demonstrators gathered at the Vancouver Art Gallery, formed a picket line and protested against cancers below the waist.
The light-hearted rally was held to raise awareness for the fourth annual BC Cancer Foundation Underwear AffairŽ presented by JOE BOXER, on July 11th in Vancouver. The 5km walk/ 10km run raises money for below-the-waist-cancers such as prostate, colorectal, uterine, cervical, ovarian, bladder and testicular.
In 2008, 24,700 Canadian men were diagnosed with prostate cancer, and 1,300 Canadian women diagnosed with cervical cancer.
Nick Locke, Senior Vice President of Development at BC Cancer Foundation expressed his pleasure at the demonstration. I am thrilled to see all of the support which was shown today for this cause. The point is that we DO something about these cancers that are far too prevalent. In fact, cancers below the waist account for over 40 percent of all cancers. I hope everyone will join me on July 11th as we put the fun back in fundraiser,said Locke.
Participants in the BC Cancer Foundation's Underwear Affair presented by JOE BOXER walk or run through the streets of Vancouver, often in outrageous or brief costumes. Everyone is encouraged to be part of a great cause, raise as much funding as possible and help end cancers below the waist. Participants and guests are invited to the EXPOsed Afterparty which features live music and entertainment.
Funds generated over the past three years from the BC Cancer Foundation’s Underwear Affair have contributed to research at the BC Cancer Agency to improve early detection and develop better methods for treatment and have helped to increase the survival rate of those diagnosed with colorectal cancer by 30 percent.
Registration for the BC Cancer Foundation's Underwear Affair presented by JOE BOXER is now open at 604.734.CURE or online at www.uncoverthecure.org.