Flemingo Duty Free KickCancerThon partnership has strengthened Sri Lanka’s cancer care efforts, with the travel retail brand committing LKR 1 million to support the National Cancer Hospital, Apeksha Hospital, during a major international charity marathon in Colombo.
Flemingo Duty Free KickCancerThon partnership pledges LKR 1 million for Apeksha Hospital
Flemingo Duty Free KickCancerThon collaboration has reinforced the role of corporate social responsibility in addressing critical healthcare needs in Sri Lanka, as the global travel retail operator pledged a donation of LKR 1 million to the National Cancer Hospital, Apeksha Hospital, Maharagama. The commitment was officially announced during the ICA International Marathon, held at Galle Face Green on 14 December 2025, a high-profile sporting event that brought together athletes, corporate leaders, and community members in a shared spirit of awareness and social impact.
The initiative forms part of KickCancerThon, a global movement launched by The Moodie Davitt Report to raise awareness and funds for cancer care worldwide. By partnering with this initiative, Flemingo Duty Free has extended its engagement beyond commercial operations, aligning its brand values with meaningful community contribution and healthcare support in markets where it operates.
The ICA International Marathon was organised by the Indian Cultural Association (ICA) Sri Lanka, a registered non-profit organisation with over six years of service. The event aimed to unite runners from around the world in Colombo under a single cause, using sport as a platform to inspire collective action and humanitarian engagement. The marathon successfully combined international participation with a strong social purpose, reinforcing the importance of community-driven initiatives in addressing national health challenges such as cancer care.
The LKR 1 million donation was formally handed over during the event in a ceremonial exchange attended by diplomatic and medical representatives. His Excellency Dr. Satyanjal Pandey, Deputy High Commissioner of India, presented the contribution to Dr. Randima Nanayakkara, Consultant Oncosurgeon at the National Cancer Hospital. The funds are earmarked to support the hospital’s Surgical Department, contributing towards essential medical requirements and strengthening patient care services at one of Sri Lanka’s most critical oncology institutions.
Apeksha Hospital, located in Maharagama, plays a pivotal role in providing specialised cancer treatment to patients from across the country, often operating under significant resource constraints. Contributions from private sector partners such as Flemingo Duty Free help bridge gaps in funding for surgical equipment, consumables, and patient support services, directly impacting treatment outcomes and care quality.
Beyond the financial contribution, Flemingo Duty Free demonstrated its commitment through active participation in the marathon. Members of the company’s team sponsored and took part in the run, symbolising hands-on involvement and advocacy for cancer awareness. This visible engagement underscored the company’s belief that corporate responsibility extends beyond monetary support to include participation, visibility, and leadership in social causes.
Commenting on the initiative, P. K. Thimmayya, Director of Flemingo Duty Free, highlighted the broader significance of the partnership. He noted that the marathon’s international reach provided an ideal platform to engage communities, raise awareness, and contribute to the greater good. According to Thimmayya, the initiative represents a meaningful step in Flemingo Duty Free’s ongoing efforts to support local communities while advancing awareness around cancer prevention and care.
The Flemingo Duty Free KickCancerThon partnership also reflects a growing trend among multinational brands operating in Sri Lanka to integrate social impact into their corporate strategies. As consumers and stakeholders increasingly value purpose-driven organisations, such initiatives strengthen brand credibility while delivering tangible benefits to society.
KickCancerThon has gained global recognition for mobilising the travel, tourism, and retail sectors in support of cancer-related causes. By connecting corporate partners with grassroots initiatives and healthcare institutions, the movement amplifies awareness while directing funds to where they are most urgently needed. Flemingo Duty Free’s participation places Sri Lanka firmly within this global network of collective action against cancer.
The success of the ICA International Marathon further demonstrated the potential of sports-led fundraising to unite diverse stakeholders around a shared humanitarian objective. The event’s ability to attract international runners, diplomatic representation, corporate sponsorship, and public participation highlighted Colombo’s growing profile as a destination for purpose-driven global events.
As Sri Lanka continues to confront rising healthcare demands, partnerships between the private sector, non-profit organisations, and public hospitals remain essential. Initiatives such as this donation to Apeksha Hospital illustrate how collaborative efforts can generate meaningful outcomes, supporting critical services while fostering awareness and solidarity.
Through its continued engagement with KickCancerThon and similar initiatives, Flemingo Duty Free has reaffirmed its commitment to creating positive, lasting impact within the communities it serves. The contribution not only supports vital cancer care services but also sends a strong message about the power of collective responsibility in addressing some of society’s most pressing challenges.