We don’t usually talk about testicles and prostates in public, but this month, many guys are.
Enter Movember.
This world-wide movement started in Australia back in 2003, in order to help fund men’s health projects, specifically promoting awareness about prostate cancer.
One of the ideas behind this increasingly popular event is that, traditionally, guys feel pressure to be strong and invincible, so being aware of their health needs isn’t always seen as aligned with being cool, strong and manly.
But too many men suffer from prostate cancer, testicular cancer, depression and other mental health issues and they wait too long to get help.
What is Movember?
Here are the rules:
1. Once signed up at movember.com, each “mo bro” must start with a clean shaven face.
2. For the entire month of November, each “mo bro” must grow and groom a moustache.
3. Don’t fake it. No beards, goatees or fake mustaches.
4. Use the power of the mustache to create conversations about men’s health, and raise funds for prostate cancer awareness and treatment, testicular cancer awareness and treatment and mental health awareness and treatment.
5. Each “mo bro” must conduct himself like a true gentleman.
Yes, it’s well into November this year, but you can still help. Guys, start growing now. Challenge a group of friends to participate, or simply support someone who’s already doing the challenge. Talk about it and celebrate. For more ideas, visit www.movember.com.
Women, we can help, too, by raising funds and awareness. Help break down the barriers guys feel when they talk about their health with each other and their doctors. Create or join a team, raise some funds and celebrate by hosting a “Shave the Date” party for your favorite “mo bros.”
You, too, can find more ideas at www.movember.com/get-involved/mo-sistas.
Together, we can have a little fun and do a lot of good.
Federal Way resident Amy Johnson, MSW, is a trainer, educator and coach in the Pacific Northwest. She is co-author of the books, “Parenting by Strengths: A Parent’s Guide for Challenging Situations” and “Homegrown Faith and Justice.” Amy facilitates classes and workshops in the Puget Sound area and online. She specializes in working with parents and in sexuality education.
Amy can be reached at comments@diligentjoy.com.
