05 September 2024
NSW local Mitchell Carey will mark the 10-year anniversary of his Dad’s passing to prostate cancer by lacing up for The Long Run this September, in support of Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA).
The Long Run helps love go the distance for all men affected by prostate cancer– with participants walking, running or riding 72km during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.
Mitchell is taking part this year in memory of his Dad, but also for his wife, who completed treatment for a diagnosis of mouth cancer one year ago.
“This year is once decade since I lost my Dad to prostate cancer – it doesn't feel that long but time gets away. The start of September also aligns with my wife’s 12-month anniversary of finishing her cancer treatment,” Mitchell said.
“I am participating for my Dad and for my wife – through her cancer experience, the resilience and strength she showed inspired me to take part in this challenge to raise funds and awareness.
“Even just getting things organised for The Long Run have brought back great memories, including looking at photos of my Dad again.
“Prostate cancer, if caught early, is a treatable disease. Unfortunately, Dad’s was aggressive and had already spread.
“Men are known to not worry about getting to the doctor as regularly as they should, and moments like Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and The Long Run are working to change that.”
Early detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer is lifesaving. Over 98% of men with early-stage prostate cancer will be alive 5 years after diagnosis.
Mitchell’s participation in The Long Run will raise funds to support men diagnosed with the disease, but he also wants to raise awareness about early detection.
“Knowledge is power. Asking your doctor simple questions and discussing prostate cancer with colleagues or mates is important, as many people know someone who has been affected,” Mitchell said.
“There aren’t any tricks to shorten 72kms! My brother is joining me this year for The Long Run, but he has knocked over marathons, and many park runs.
“I have done no training and will just grind through. My motivation will be thinking about what my involvement means to my family – plus, all the donations will be a massive help.”
PCFA CEO, Anne Savage, said The Long Run was helping to make prostate cancer history, with every dollar raised supporting all men affected by prostate cancer, and their families.
“More than 70 Australian men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every day, accounting for 16 per cent of all newly diagnosed cancers in our country,” Ms Savage said.
“This Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we are calling on all Australians to help us make prostate cancer history – by participating in, or donating to, The Long Run.
“We are so thankful to every Australian participating in The Long Run, like Mitchell, who are running, walking or riding to raise vital awareness and funds.”
Australians can donate directly to Mitchell’s efforts via https://www.thelongrun.org.au/fundraisers/mitchcarey/the-long-run-2024.
People can sign up to run, walk or ride this September via www.thelongrun.org.au, or to donate directly to PCFA by sponsoring a Long Runner.
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
