Abbotsford News Thursday, November 15, 2012
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ABBOTSFORD
Show you care with a little hair.
Each year in the month of November, thousands of men unite on the battleground of the upper lip in the fight against prostate cancer. The term “Movember” has gained momentum over the past few years, and serves as an initiative to raise vital funds towards the awareness of men’s health. Armed with anything from beginner whiskers to a full blown fu manchu, men of all ages effectively become month-long advocates for the cause. The marathon begins on the first day of November, when clean-shaven faces refuse the razors, and continues until the end of the month. Moustaches are the moo in Abbotsford, as residents actively participate in raising awareness and funds towards the research of prostate cancer. Chairman of the Abbotsford Prostate Support and Awareness Group, Val Strijack, helps organize monthly meetings where prostate patients and survivors can openly discuss their issues and experiences. He believes the group helps
to provide information, support and mitigate feelings of isolation and loneliness that cancer evokes. Having spent time with many men affected by prostate cancer, Strijack sees Movember as a way to encourage youth to take action before it’s too late. “Movember helps to provide a venue for younger men to gain knowledge that is useful for their screening decision,” says Strijack. “Awareness can lead to early screening and a greater chance for successful treatment.” If you can’t grow a Mo, there is now an option for kids to get involved in the movement. In 2011, Abbotsford businessman Rob Studiman decided that the milk moustaches should make a comeback in a major way. He dreamed up the idea for a “Milkvember” fundraiser that allows kids from participating schools to sell cartons of milk, and donate profits to the Canadian Cancer Society. When Studiman decided to invite local businesses to participate, he first went to Save-On Foods manager, Gord Gautier, who instantly offered his support.
“It is a way for kids to give back to the community and help raise awareness for prostate cancer,” says Gautier. “Rob and I are hoping that other people will notice the positive message, and more schools will jump on board for next year.” At this point Prince Charles Elementary School and W.J. Mouat Secondary are involved, as well as the Whatcom and Sumas Save-On Foods locations. Every Wednesday throughout the month of November, the schools will sell milk for $1 per carton, with 40 cents of each sale donated to milkvember.com. In addition, both Save-On Foods locations have added a special in-store milk promotion, with partial proceeds of every 250ml milk carton donated to the cause. “Since we are just starting off, our goal this year is to raise $1,000,” says Studiman, “but through networking and the involvement of more schools and businesses, the goal next year is to raise $10,000 towards prostate cancer awareness.” Throughout the month-long moustache-fest now known as “Movember,” either go mo-free with milk, or show you care with a little hair.
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