Sunrisers Hyderabad mentors unveil 'Whitathon' t-shirts

To raise awareness on early detection of eye cancer (Retinoblastoma) in children, L V Prasad Eye institute (LVPEI) is organizing its first "WHITATHON" Run on May 20 to commemorate the World Retinoblastoma Awareness Week that will be observed from May 13-19. And our very own mentors from Sunrisers Hyderabad VVS Laxman and Tom Moody offered their support to the initiative as they unveiled the

Whitathon

T-shirt at the LV Prasad Eye Institute.

Retinoblastoma, most commonly (90%) affects children below three years of age. Around 20 to 25 per cent cases of eye cancer worldwide in children are from India, and 50 per cent of cases worldwide lose their lives due to late detection and inadequate treatment.

Tom Moody speaking at the event said he was privileged to be a part of something that costs vision. "We take our eyesight for granted. If we as cricketers can help in reaching out to more people and enhance awareness, we would be enthusiastic to be part of it. It is important to be associated because it involves the health of children," he said.

VVS Laxman said that when he heard about eye cancer, it was a real eye opener for him. "The best thing is it can be cured and we can see there the little champions who endured the pain and come out valiantly. How can the kid know if he is suffering from cancer? It is the responsibility of the parent, paediatrician to identify that white reflex and early detection is critical, like in all cancers. That’s why "WHITATHON" Run on May 20 is very important, it’s not just a run, it’s a run with a purpose, a run for spreading the message, which will save the lives and vision. I urge all the Hyderabadi’s to come forward and participate in this run," Laxman said.