07 June 2022
It’s the most common cancer among local men, its causes are unknown, and often it strikes with no warning.
The disease is prostate cancer, and this Men’s Health Week locals are being asked to step up to raise survival by doing the Walk for Him.
The event, run by Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, invites people to do 49,000 steps during the week – beginning Monday June 13 – in solidarity with the 49 Australian men diagnosed with prostate cancer every day.
Melbourne local Gerrard Ellis has joined the fundraising initiative to help make a difference after his own diagnosis – and has already raised nearly $5000 for the cause.
“In August 2021, as my family and I excitedly waited for our first-born grandchild, I got a PSA blood test result of 8.4. Not long after, they gave me a biopsy, and I took the dreaded call from my surgeon – I had prostate cancer,” he said.
“I felt I was in the best space of my life – I was feeling physically and mentally great. But unfortunately, I had prostate cancer without even knowing.
“l chose to have surgery last September. Not an easy choice, but one l felt would give me the best chance of extending my life.
“One thing this experience has taught me very quickly is this disease does not discriminate. No man is immune and all of us need to be aware of getting checked as we get older and ensuring we can deal with it early, so it can be treated.
“To all the gentlemen out there, l say this - get a PSA check regularly, especially if you’re over 50 - it’s just a blood test and it can save your life.
“Thanks to that simple blood test, this August I’ll be celebrating my beautiful granddaughter’s first birthday.”
Mr Ellis said the experience spurred him on to give back through Walk for Him and encourage other men to get checked.
“It has truly been a life-changing experience, and one I wouldn’t wish for any man, but I’m so thankful for the researchers, medical professionals, and specialists who have helped me. I also couldn’t have got through this without my wife and family, who mean everything to me.
“By taking part in Walk for Him I can make a difference and help raise awareness about this disease - and get more men talking about it to help save lives.”
To support Gerrard’s Walk for Him fundraising, locals can donate at www.walkforhim.org.au/fundraisers/gerrardellis, or to register, visit www.walkforhim.org.au.
PCFA CEO Anne Savage congratulated all those taking part.
“Awareness saves lives – we know that we can make great strides with Walk for Him.”
“All funds raised will go towards prostate cancer research, nurses, advocacy, and awareness, directly supporting men with prostate cancer in the local community.
“Over the past 10 years we’ve come a long way, funding $40m in research, placing 100 Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses, and providing one million info kits to the Australian community.
“But we have more work to do, together, to save lives.” Join the campaign at www.walkforhim.org.au or call PCFA on 1800 22 00 99 for support.
ENDS
Media contact:
Laura McKoy | M.0435 094 788
