27 September 2024
Queenslander Tony Gorry laced up to jog 72km in just one day during September, from Toorbul to the Story Bridge, in an effort to raise local awareness about the impact of prostate cancer.
Tony’s 72kms, covered during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, were in an effort to raise funds for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) through a campaign called The Long Run.
The Long Run helps love go the distance for all men, with participants walking, running or riding 72km to raise funds for the 72 Australian men who are diagnosed with prostate cancer daily.
Instead of completing the challenge over the month, Tony covered the distance in one day – dedicating his efforts to his Dad Brian, who is fighting stage four prostate cancer.
“My Dad’s prostate cancer returned aggressively in the middle of last year. He was previously diagnosed around age 60 with advanced prostate cancer, and after receiving radiotherapy and hormone treatment was good for about 10 years prior to it coming back,” Tony said.
“He has recently finished chemotherapy and is now receiving strong hormone treatment. I am absolutely amazed at his strength, resilience and positive mindset.
“Completing 72km in one day was a small hurdle compared with what he has been challenged with.
“I'm proud to help raise funds for PCFA, to assist in life-saving prostate cancer research, clinical trials and support including nursing and education that they offer to men and families.
“Together, we can make prostate cancer history.”
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month ends on 30 September, but Tony wants all Queenslanders to keep driving positive change – raising funds and awareness for all men and families affected.
“Just because Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is coming to end doesn't mean we should stop the conversations and support around the disease,” Tony said.
“Men are shockingly bad at looking after their health and getting checked up, but in reality, it shouldn’t be overlooked and talking to your GP is a small act men need to take, to ensure early detection.
“Prostate cancer is no joke. It is Australia's leading cause of cancer and 1 in 5 men are likely to be diagnosed, that’s 72 Australian men each day.
“Awareness is paramount to driving actions to enable early diagnosis and lead to better outcomes.
“The Long Run has been an opportunity to open up those communication channels and normalise these discussions across Queensland.”
Australians can donate to Tony’s 72km Long Run effort via https://www.thelongrun.org.au/fundraisers/tonygorry/the-long-run-2024.
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with more than 26,000 men told they have prostate cancer every year.
PCFA CEO, Anne Savage, called on Australians to advocate, donate, and discuss the disease beyond September.
“During and after Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we are calling on all Australians to inspire community action in the fight against prostate cancer,” Ms Savage said.
“We are tremendously grateful for those who have participated in The Long Run, like Tony, who are raising vital awareness and funds.
“Every dollar raised through The Long Run helps PCFA support all men affected by prostate cancer, and their families.”
Thousands are taking part in The Long Run during September, Australia’s largest online event in support of families facing the disease. Visit www.thelongrun.org.au to donate today.
For more information and to find a local support group, call 1800 22 00 99 or go to www.prostate.org.au.
ENDS
Media contacts for further information or interviews:
PCFA – 1800 22 00 99
Katie Clift – katie@maybe.agency |M +351 913 976 202
