Blue September is all about raising awareness, and fundraising to support men and their families living with prostate cancer.
Across the country, families, friends, mates and businesses have been getting together, having fun and sharing the message, and the Waikato has been no exception. The Prostate Cancer Foundation has been heartened by the support, from both the commercial and rural sectors.
Here are some critical reasons for men over 50 to get a prostate check:
• 1 in 8 men will get prostate cancer
• It is the number 1 cancer in Kiwi men – over 3000 are diagnosed every year
• 1 man is diagnosed every 3 hours of every day of the year
• It is the third highest cancer killer of Kiwi men – more than 650 every year.
• Currently, there are more than 40,000 Kiwi men who have been challenged with prostate cancer, at some stage in their lives.
Men with family history of prostate cancer are at higher risk, and testing should begin at 40 years. Research shows that our men, particularly our rural men, are not good at getting checked. That needs to change and early detection is the key. And don’t wait for symptoms. A recent survey has shown that 61 percent of men diagnosed had no symptoms, so getting that routine check is very important. It can save your life.
For Prostate Cancer Foundation Ambassador and Hamilton businessman Tim Beere these messages are personal. At 42 he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, a devastating blow for the husband and father of three, not least in part due to his age. Tim’s mission is to raise awareness about early detection and the need for more research. In 2018 the ‘Blubloke’ took on the gruelling Pioneer Challenge, not only challenging himself but shining a light on prostate cancer and the importance of early detection, and doing more than a little fundraising along the way.
In training for the Pioneer, Tim also took on the tarmac at Hampton Downs Motorsport Park, alongside 195 other cyclists in Pedal4Prostate, the annual four-hour endurance cycling event in support of the Prostate Cancer Foundation and finale event of Blue September. Riders will once again hit the track on October 13, a rare opportunity to navigate its twists and turns under pedal power. The Foundation gratefully acknowledges the ongoing support from Pedal4Prostate major sponsor Hampton Downs, whose provision of the facilities ensures more funds raised on the day go directly to the Foundation to provide support, fund research and educate more people about prostate cancer.
Family members and work colleagues can be a great incentive and encouragement for the men in their family to go to the GP and get a check. Don’t leave it to the men – they are often a bit slack in looking after their health. If they won’t go to get a check themselves, make an appointment and get them along.
Find out more at www.blueseptember.org.nz and www.pedal4prostate.org.nz
