Gianfranco Gallo, a sixty-year-old Lucanian journalist, arrives in Calabria by bicycle. In 1995 he overcame Hodgkin’s lymphoma and since then his life has been divided between profession and volunteering, committing himself, with both, to raising public awareness on the topic of cancer, including childhood cancer.
A cycling trip lasting approximately 30 days
«I left Potenza on Saturday morning – says Gianfranco Gallo – the highest regional capital in Italy, for a cycling trip lasting about 30 days, with a dual purpose: personal and social.
In 1995, I was thirty years old, I was affected by Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Obviously my situation, which I overcame successfully and brilliantly, made me particularly aware of the issue.
I have been writing about healthcare for over 20 years and have been involved in various associations that still continue to deal with oncohematology today.
Given the situation of Italian healthcare that lies ahead, particularly in the South, it seemed necessary to me, as far as possible, to contribute to keeping attention high on the topic of oncohematology, including pediatric ones. Having turned 60 in January, I wanted to take the opportunity to send a strong message of hope to those who are now in the midst of the vortex of diagnosis and therapy, giving a tangible example which – I know from experience – is the most effective for give strength and hope for a future not lost to patients. The journey I will make by bicycle, with pedal assistance, starts from Potenza and touches Calabria, Sicily and Sardinia.”
The arrival and stages in Calabria
He is expected to arrive at Paola Hospital on Monday where he will be welcomed by Dr. Gianfranco Filippelli and his team. After the welcome, a press conference is scheduled where Gallo will illustrate the initiative in detail and, immediately afterwards, he will continue to Cosenza for a stop at the Gianmarco De Maria Association where, on this occasion, we will continue to raise public awareness on the topic of pediatric oncohematology in Calabria.
