22 November 2024
When Russell Savage turned 60, he never expected to receive a prostate cancer diagnosis right after his birthday in May 2023.
“I never experienced any obvious symptoms. I was having PSA tests very six months since I turned 50,” Russell said.
“After a series of tests and a discussion about treatment options, I decided to have a prostatectomy.”
When Russell lived in Melbourne, he participated in a men’s choir called Men in Suits.
“I really liked singing with Men in Suits. I found it very therapeutic and good for my well-being".
“I wanted to continue the experience of singing in a men’s choir after I moved back to Townsville last year, but men's choirs are rare, so I started Blokes Choir,” Russell added.
“We now have about 15 men involved, and although we’re not too serious about our singing, we are serious about our health and wellbeing and the challenge it provides,” Russell added.
“One of the unique things that a men's choir can do is promote men’s health issues.
On Monday, 4th November, Russell, and his Blokes Choir conducted a charity fundraising event in Townsville, Queensland for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA).
“We used the opportunity to raise awareness for the PCFA at our final concert for the year,” Russell added.
Russell said that hosting the concert was an opportunity to pay it forward for the future generations impacted by prostate cancer.
“When I was diagnosed, I read all the resources that PCFA have on prostate.org.au and found them really invaluable to me. It told me what would happen and helped me make some difficult decisions. I definitely felt better informed,” Russell added.
"The concert was called 'The Year that Was'. It was a brilliant night! We sang songs like ‘Long May You Live’ (a translated Georgian chant Mravaljamier), 'Misty Mountains Cold' (from The Hobbit) and some parody songs that take the mickey out of life and help us to look on the bright side.” he added.
“I also took the opportunity to tell attendees my prostate cancer story, which was very humbling.
“My message: early intervention will allow me to watch my grandchildren grow up, so I encourage you to get tested for prostate cancer!" Russell added.
Blokes Choir raised nearly $1,400 for research supported by the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.
Image Above: Russell (right), his son (left) and grandson (centre); "The main reason we need more funds for prostate cancer research," he said.
