12 September 2024
Victorian local and prostate cancer survivor Alan Blair will hike 72km this Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, raising funds for the 72 Aussie men diagnosed with the disease every day.
When he’s not hitting the trails – from the Dandenong Ranges to the Murray, Mountains Rail Trail and all around the Alpine National Park, Alan will be raising his glass in an effort to raise further funds for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA).
He will personally host two local fundraising events: one in Bright Brewery on 21 September and the other at Hop Hen Brewing in Lilydale on 28 September
Alan was diagnosed in June 2024 with stage 3, locally advanced prostate cancer.
“I'm 53. I had no symptoms other than highly elevated iron levels – a symptom of inflammation I'm told – and I knew practically nothing about prostate cancer before my diagnosis,” Alan said.
“I didn't know it was a matter of a simple blood test – but I've always tried to be proactive about looking after my health. It's easy and it makes a huge difference if you can catch it early.
“I will be outdoors hiking 72km to raise funds for PCFA in-between hosting my two Long Run fundraising events.
“Both events have been planned to allow people to show up, raise a glass, enjoy themselves and have the chance to win some prizes and merch.
“Bright Brewery has kindly donated a "karma keg" and Hop Hen will be donating $1 from every schooner sold on the day. All people have to do is come on out, enjoy themselves, and donate to help PCFA find a cure for prostate cancer.
“The other thing I'll be doing on those days is encouraging everyone to talk to their doctor about their personal risk of prostate cancer.”
Australians can donate directly to Alan’s Long Run efforts via https://www.thelongrun.org.au/fundraisers/alanblair/the-long-run-2024.
Prostate cancer is Australia’s most common cancer, with more than 26,000 men newly diagnosed with the disease every year.
PCFA CEO, Anne Savage, thanked Alan for his efforts to raise funds and awareness for all men affected by prostate cancer.
“1 in 5 Australian men are at risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer by the time they turn 85 years old,” Ms Savage said.
“Alan is not only in it for The Long Run to support other men like him who will be diagnosed with prostate cancer – but he’s raising vital awareness and encouraging conversations about the disease.
“Early detection can be lifesaving. Thank you Alan for sharing your story and for your tremendous support raisings funds for PCFA this Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.
“All Australians can play a part this month in helping make prostate cancer history – by participating in, or donating to, The Long Run.
“Every dollar raised helps PCFA support all men affected by prostate cancer, and their families.”
The Long Run is Australia’s largest online event in support of more than 26,000 men diagnosed with prostate cancer every year. Visit www.thelongrun.org.au 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
