Time to get moving for Movember

Published Oct 31, 2017 at 11:42 am
(Updated Oct 31, 2017 at 11:42 am)

The Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre fun-filled fundraiser Movember is ready to makes its return, helping to raise awareness of largely preventable cancers affecting men.

Men die about six years before women on average but the charity said: We can all take action to live healthier, happier and longer lives.”

Every November, BCHC provides a platform for men to have a conversation about their health. During Movember, men grow moustaches in most cases.

Robin Hood Football Club is partnering with BCHC for the second year. Steven Simons, Robin Hood vice-president, said: “As someone who has been personally touched by the devastating effects of cancer, supporting such a cause is a no-brainer.

“This event is so much fun and is a worthwhile experience for teams and individuals alike.”

A BCHC spokeswoman said: “Trucker, regent, connoisseur or wisp — no matter the shape or style of the Mo this Movember, your face can inspire donations, conversations and real change. More than just follicles on your face, a Mo is a ribbon — reminding the people in your life of the importance of men’s health.”

Men are encouraged to “know their numbers” by attending a free men’s health screening. From the age of 50 it is wise to talk to your doctor about prostate cancer and whether you should have a PSA test. If you are of African or Caribbean descent or have a father or brother with prostate cancer, you should be having this conversation at 45.

The statement continued: “Know your numbers, know your risk, talk to your doctor. If you don’t know your numbers or have not seen a doctor in a few years Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre host a free men’s health screening every November.”

This year it is being held on November 16, from 10am to 4pm at the Seventh Day Adventist Church Hall on King Street.

While starting clean shaven on November 1 and cultivating growth for 30 days, “MoBros” can seek financial support towards the cause. All funds raised are invested in men’s health prevention, detection and treatment programmes in Bermuda. To become involved in Movember you must:

1. Register to grow a Mo (or wear a Bow for those who prefer less itch) for 30 days at movember.bm

2. Movember launch: Wednesday, November 1 at 5.30pm — Robin Hood Restaurant and Pub.

3. Grow, bow, Move and know your numbers for 30 days

4. Mo-Finale: Thursday, November 30 at 5.30pm — Robin Hood Restaurant and Pub — have some fun getting your mo shaven off. But first, get judged to win various prizes.

Movember events are open to the public.

The spokeswoman said men should be motivated to get active: “Try the Catlin Man on the Run 5K being held on November 12, at 9am at Warwick Academy. Women are welcome but only on the sidelines.

“Prefer to Move on your own? Then set a distance goal at the start of the month and walk, run, cycle, swim or row your way to achieving it. You can raise much needed funds for men’s health while you’re at it.”

All funds raised support the Centre’s charitable outreach initiatives around men’s health which includes the Centre’s Radiation Therapy Initiative. For more information visit www.movember.bm