On November 3, 2021 at 4:30 pm, I joined the 1.4 million men a year diagnosed with prostate cancer. I retired four minutes later.
Appointments, tests, scans, surgery, radiation as well as hormone deprivation shots and pills followed. As of the fall of 2024 the doctors say, my cancer is “in check”. Additional tests thankfully await.
My Faith, my family, my friends and the Movember community journey beside me … and yes my mustache adds just the right touch of “Movember” good cheer.
In case you haven’t figured it out - my mustache returned in 2021 with my diagnosis: A daily reminder that I am not alone. I journey forward with the strength of the entire Movember community and its good-spirited embrace of knowledge, wisdom, encouragement and courage,
Thank you for reading and reflecting on these words and requests.
The requests:
1. If you have a grandfather, dad, husband, partner, son, brother, uncle, nephew, friend, neighbor, teammate or co-worker:
Ask them,
Listen to them,
Encourage them, and
Check in on them …
about mental and physical health concerns, risks and challenges.
2. Remember and share that the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is: Dial 988.
3. If you are a dude or love a dude, know the testicular and prostate cancer risks. Check the nuts. Get PSA checked. Now. Not later. Now.
4. If you are so inclined, embrace your own mustache.
5. Mo your own way. Whatever you do is perfect, appreciated and helpful. Smile, laugh, talk, listen, ask.
6. If you can spare a few dollars, I’d be honored and humbled if you donate.
Regardless, thanks for your care, compassion and generosity whether your offerings be spiritual, reflective, encouraging or financial.
All, are instruments of healing to me, our community and our world.
Thank you.