26 August 2024
Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) has called on Australians to get active in the fight against prostate cancer, urging men and women to advocate, donate, and discuss the disease.
NSW Local Jason Lynch is leading the charge to raise awareness and save lives, already running more than 100km to raise funds ahead of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month this September.
Jason’s effort is part of a campaign known as The Long Run, which encourages Aussies to run, walk or ride 72km to raise vital funds for PCFA.
1 in 5 men will develop anxiety or depression due to a prostate cancer diagnosis. The 72km Long Run target represents the 72% of men who will not seek help for these mental health issues.
It’s this statistic that inspired Jason to lace up and hit the pavement for PCFA. Following a workplace accident in 2020, he has experienced significant struggles with his own mental health.
“Taking part in The Long Run means I get to join a national campaign that’s all about ensuring more men affected by mental health issues as a result of prostate cancer get the support they need,” Jason said.
“I’ve already exceeded my running target, but it’s just the beginning – I’m in it for the Long Run to support PCFA and educate men in NSW on testing and treatments for prostate cancer.
“Every dollar raised through this campaign helps men affected by prostate cancer to access support, and funds research into new treatments and testing options.
“Since sharing my Long Run journey on social media, many friends have helped to amplify the conversation about prostate cancer risk and diagnosis – which is absolutely vital.
“This September we can all do our part to prioritize our health, continue the conversation about this disease and help all men affected by Australia’s most commonly diagnosed cancer.”
Jason encouraged the community to get involved in The Long Run, either via taking part or by donating to support the more than 26,000 men diagnosed with prostate cancer each year.
PCFA CEO, Anne Savage, urged local businesses and community leaders to get involved.
“The Long Run is a great way to inspire community action in the fight against our most common cancer,” Ms Savage said.
“We’d love to see people signing up or sponsoring Jason. Our ultimate goal through this campaign is to help make prostate cancer history.”
Thousands are expected to take part in The Long Run, Australia’s largest online event in support of families facing the disease.
Australians can donate directly to Jason’s efforts via https://www.thelongrun.org.au/fundraisers/jasonlynch/the-long-run-2024.
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