30 August 2021
This September for Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, thousands of Australians have made the pledge to go the distance for families facing prostate cancer, signing up to run, walk or wheel 72km throughout the month in solidarity with men suffering from the silent killer.
Prostate cancer remains the most common cancer in Australian men, claiming the lives of nine men every single day.
Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia CEO Professor Jeff Dunn AO said the charity had been overwhelmed by support for The Long Run campaign.
“We know that 45 men will be diagnosed every day, and sadly, nine will die,” he said.
“We are asking all Australians to run, walk, or wheel 72km throughout the month, to symbolise our solidarity with men affected, and to encourage more men to reach out for help when prostate cancer strikes.
“Men with prostate cancer face significantly higher rates of anxiety and depression, and a 70 per cent increased risk of suicide death, and yet 72 per cent of men will not seek help for mental hardship.
“The Long Run aims to help men and families go the distance, providing hope, outreach, and the promise of a brighter future through research and expert nursing care.”
People can sign-up for The Long Run at any point during the month.
“It’s never too late to take the first step – we would love to see people signing up and donating to The Long Run during September,” Prof Dunn said.
“All of us know someone who will be impacted by prostate cancer.
“One in six men you know, in your life right now, is likely to be diagnosed in his lifetime. One in six.
“Please, don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference, sign-up and donate today and help more men go the distance to beat this disease.
“With community support, my family, and yours, can help end the pain of prostate cancer.”
Sign up for The Long Run today at thelongrun.org.au to start fundraising.
The campaign aims to raise $1.6 million for Australian-based prostate cancer research and PCFA Specialist Nurses.
Phone PCFA on 1800 22 00 99 or go to pcfa.org.au for more information.
ENDS
PCFA media contact: Laura McKoy | M. 0435 094 788
