28 May 2025

This Men’s Health Week, Bagara local Karen Parsons will be stepping out to walk 25km in support of her husband who is battling aggressive prostate cancer.

Mrs Parsons has joined Walk for Him, a seven-day go-at-your-own-pace walking challenge, held during Men’s Health Week (June 9-15) to raise funds for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA).

“I got involved because my husband Ian (68) was diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer just over three years ago – and his cancer has spread to a vertebrae, his left thigh, bone marrow and lymph nodes,” she said.

“Ian’s diagnosis was a shock to him and our family – he had no pre-existing conditions and no symptoms. He also regularly did blood tests and health checks, but didn’t realise that a PSA test wasn’t included in those.

“Since then, he’s had chemotherapy, radium treatment and hormone therapy. He’s doing much better now and continues to lead a healthy lifestyle, with regular visits to his oncologist for monitoring.

“I want to support Ian in every way possible – and that’s why I’ll be walking 25km throughout Men’s Health Week. I hope to raise as much money as possible to defeat this horrible disease.”

Mrs Parsons said her husband Ian, and his friend, also started the Bargara Prostate Men’s Support Group as a way to support more men in the community and raise awareness about early detection.

“Our strong message to all men is; if you are over 40 years with a family history of the disease, or over 50 years with no family history, have a PSA test. It’s a simple blood test but an early diagnosis can lead to a long and health life,” she said.Mrs Parsons is hoping to raise $1,000 the cause.

Locals are encouraged to get behind the Parsons and join the Walk for Him movement to make a difference.

Participants can walk 25kms, or a distance of their choice, in solidarity with men and families impacted by prostate cancer.

PCFA CEO, Anne Savage, called on the local community to get involved.

“The Walk for Him is a great way to raise awareness and funds in the fight against Australia’s most common cancer,” she said.

“It’s a disease that takes a significant toll not just on men, but also on their partners and families, and on our community.

“All funds raised during Walk for Him will support men and their families, clinical trials, prostate cancer nurses, and our nationwide telenursing service.

“With 1 in 5 Australian men likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, local action has never been so important.”

To donate to Karen Parsons visit www.walkforhim.org.au/fundraisers/karenparsons

To sign up, go to www.walkforhim.org.au or phone PCFA on 1800 22 00 99 for support.