Homs-Sana
With the participation of more than 300 people of different age groups and social, cultural and civil activities, the second (Karna) marathon was launched today, organized by the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Armenian Quarter and the (Karna Akbarna) team on the occasion of the International Day of the Elderly, which falls on the first of October of each year.
The route of the marathon reached 3 km, where the participants gathered at the Nozha roundabout, heading to the President's Roundabout, then the New Clock Roundabout, to conclude at the Old Clock Roundabout, interspersed with rest stops to provide hospitality and medical care to the participants.
In a statement to SANA reporter, Father Edward Karam, priest of the Church of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary in the Armenian neighborhood, indicated that the marathon is a step to shed light on the elderly group, the great contributions they make to society and the need to take care of them, occupy their spare time and help them pass the many psychological, social and biological changes that accompany them. their age stage, in addition to raising societal awareness of the problems and challenges faced by the elderly.
In turn, Janan Al-Abdullah of the “Agbarna Akbarna” team indicated that the team seeks, through its various activities, which include lectures and cultural, recreational, social and medical activities, to instill hope in the hearts of the elderly, increase social cohesion, and enhance the interaction of the elderly with members of society.
Ramez Al-Hussein, Director of Mada Cultural Project, noted the importance of sports and recreational activities as a social necessity to occupy leisure time at this age, to encourage adults to exercise and to draw a smile on their faces, and to protect them from isolation and psychological loneliness, which is one of the most prominent problems that the elderly suffer from as a result of the shrinking of their social environment.
While a number of participants considered that the idea of the marathon is good and has a positive impact in engaging and strengthening the role of the elderly in life, to be active in society and an appreciation of their sacrifices and giving during the stages of their lives.
Rasha made
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