As a sustainable development partner of the "Kerry Hong Kong Streetathon 2024," the Hong Kong Federation of Women's Centres (HKFWC) has been promoting holistic health initiatives for women. HKFWC encourages women to focus on their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, aiming to alleviate the caregiving stress faced by women, particularly caregivers. Additionally, HKFWC hopes to foster social support networks through sports and personal development.
Recently, nearly 30 female carers from two programs—"Carer Together" and "Jockey Club Women In Splendid Hope"—participated in a 10-kilometer race. For these carers, fitting running classes and races into their demanding caregiving schedules was quite challenging. They began attending weekly running classes in September, starting with learning proper running techniques, with some practising independently until the race on December 8 at the Kerry Hong Kong Streetathon 2024.
In addition to the typical challenges faced by novice runners, female carers also contend with familial pressures. Some husbands and elder family members discourage their participation, believing it neglects family duties; meanwhile, some of their children worry about their ageing parents getting injured and wish for them to withdraw from the race. Nonetheless, many friends and relatives came out to support them.
Ultimately, the carers completed the race with determination and smiles. The hope is that society recognizes carers' capabilities and provides more support in their family roles, allowing them to pursue their own aspirations.