Cibc Walk for the Cure draws hundreds
The annual CIBC Walk for the Cure was held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, beginning at CIBC Caribbean’s Wickham’s Cay branch and drawing widespread community support; a CIBC press release reported 500 registered supporters and more than 200 participants, while earlier VINO coverage cited roughly 150 attendees. Organisers, health officials and community leaders used the event to push for early detection and to support the BVI Cancer Society’s USD $75,000 target for 2025.
More than 200 people took part in the CIBC Walk for the Cure on Saturday, October 25, 2025, coming together across ages to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month and to raise funds for cancer prevention and patient support. According to an October 31 press release from CIBC Caribbean, 500 people registered their support for the walk and more than 200 participants completed the route, while earlier coverage by Virgin Islands News Online (VINO) recorded roughly 150 people at the event.
The walk began at 5:30 a.m. from CIBC Caribbean’s Wickham’s Cay branch and followed a round-trip seafront route to the well in Sea Cow’s Bay. Participants proudly wore the pink Walk for the Cure shirts, a visible show of solidarity that organisers said embodied courage for those battling cancer and the strength of community support.
In an exclusive interview with VINO, Health Minister Hon. Wheatley said he was up "at the crack of dawn" to join the event and estimated about 150 people were present when he arrived. He stressed that his attendance was about more than showing up — it was about promoting early detection and lifesaving awareness. "Awareness saves lives," the minister told VINO, warning that cancer rates in the Virgin Islands could double by 2050 if current trends continue and urging residents to seek regular screenings.
The minister highlighted cancers that commonly affect local men and women — prostate and colon cancers among men and breast cancer among women — and urged high-risk groups and those over recommended screening ages to consult primary care providers and use local screening services. "Women do not have to die from breast cancer or cervical cancer and men do not have to die from prostate and colon cancer.
Early detection, and, of course, awareness of what to do, is so important," he said to VINO. CIBC Caribbean’s Head of Country, Fabian S. Devonish, and Governor Daniel Pruce were among those who attended. In the CIBC press release, Devonish said the event "truly reflects this year’s theme — Community.
Courage," and noted the walk has grown "exponentially" since its launch in 2012. Fahie, speaking for organisers, thanked sponsors and volunteers and said, "Every donation, every step, and every show of support brings us closer to ensuring that no one faces cancer alone," according to the release.
Organisers said this year’s walk contributes to the Virgin Islands’ USD $75,000 fundraising target for 2025, with proceeds supporting cancer prevention, treatment and patient assistance programmes through the BVI Cancer Society. CIBC Caribbean served as a major sponsor, providing logistical support for the early morning event.
Health officials reiterated that familiarising oneself with risk factors, attending annual checkups where recommended, and seeking timely medical attention remain the best defences for families across the territory. Residents seeking information on screening services and recommended schedules are advised to contact their local clinic or the Ministry of Health for guidance and available resources.
Primary source: VINO