by Ian Marshall, Editor

The main goal was to raise awareness for early screening and tests for girls affected by breast cancer; the response was quite remarkable.

Organised by Kastriot Orana, Board Member and Head of International Relations for the Table Tennis Federation of Kosovo,  held in the national centre in the country’s capital city of Pristina, the venue turned pink. More than 100 participants played table tennis for three hours.

Enjoying the occasion

In addition, all present listened to music and enjoyed light snacks. Importantly, they were not professional table tennis players; they were women that are fighting to cure breast cancer.

“We as a federation decided to organise such an event where we invited people who are affected by this disease and people who may be affected in the future; our aim in order to raise awareness for early screening, the diagnosis early is equal to the saving of life.” Kastriot Orana

Director of Oncology Clinic attended

Notably present was Dr. Ilir Kurtishi, the Director of the local Oncology Clinic.

“I am very happy to see that sport associations, in this case the table tennis association, is organising an event, taking in consideration that many women are touched by breast cancer in Kosovo, such organisations to raise the awareness are very welcomed in our society.” Dr. Ilir Kurtisha

President supports

Most significantly Nehat Çitaku, President of the Table Tennis Federation of Kosovo, welcomed the participants and invited them to play table tennis, believing that physical activities may help the prevention of such diseases.

“You are welcome to be part of our family, our federation. We will offer you the venue for free so you can come and play table tennis at least two to three times a week. We want you to feel here it is your home.” Nehat Çitaku.

Matters concluded with certificates being presented; the national federation following the TT4Health programme promoted by the International Table Tennis Federation.