22 February 2022
Orange local John Moss will celebrate his 70th birthday in an unconventional way next month by attempting a 42km marathon to raise funds for prostate cancer research, awareness and support.
As part of the Orange Running Festival, Mr Moss launched the Dick Potts Memorial Marathon fundraiser in memory of a dear friend, Dick Potts, who lost his fight with prostate cancer at 63.
Mr Moss will run in Dick’s honour on March 6, with the support of five senior members of the Orange Runners’ Club.
“Dick was a true champion whose life revolved around family and friends, his passion for sport and his international career as an eminent mining engineer,” he said.
“Dick was my great friend, inspiration and mentor. Since his premature loss in 2008 my goal has been to honour Dick through a fundraising marathon soon after my 70th birthday.
“It has been around eight years since I last completed a marathon, and while I have maintained a reasonable level of fitness, and completed several half marathons and lots of Park Runs, the training has been tough. Age is starting to leave its mark! However, I’ll give the marathon a red hot go.”
“Raising funds for prostate cancer research, awareness and support has been my motivation to keep active since my last marathon.
“Orange Runners Club members have been very keen to support me through this journey and we all hope to raise vital awareness of prostate cancer while honouring my mate, Dick Potts.
“We want to support PCFA’s research into early diagnosis, treatments and care options to help other men impacted by the disease.”
To donate to The Dick Potts Memorial Marathon, visit https://fundraise.pcfa.org.au/fundraisers/johnmoss/the-dick-potts-memorial-marathon.
PCFA CEO Anne Savage commended John and Orange Runners’ Club members for their mammoth commitment to helping locals impacted by prostate cancer.
“We are tremendously grateful to have John’s support, which helps us to fund new research, new support services, and new awareness activities that benefit men and families in the local area,” Ms Savage said.
“Every 30 minutes one of our fathers or sons will hear the news that he has prostate cancer. Alarmingly, it remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian men.
“We know that many families in New South Wales are facing prostate cancer right now and will need special care and support.
“Community action is key to beating it – we know that research and early detection saves lives.
“We are proud to work with champions in the local community like John to create a world free from prostate cancer.”
The Orange Prostate Cancer Support Group and a local prostate cancer support nurse will host an information booth at the two-day running festival for participants and supporters seeking more information about the disease.
For information and support, call PCFA on 1800 22 00 99.
ENDS
Media contact: Laura McKoy | M. 0435 094 788
