SALE man Michael Scott will run 300 kilometres during September to raise awareness and fundraise for prostate cancer support.
When Michael’s boss was diagnosed with prostate cancer, he witnessed first-hand the detrimental toll that the disease can take on men and their families.
Committed to raising awareness of the disease and supporting those going through it, Michael will step up during September for Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and take part in The Long Run.
The Long Run is the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia’s annual fundraising campaign, calling on people to run, walk, or wheel 72km throughout the month.
This year’s theme, ‘Together for the long run’, encourages people to unite as a community to save lives and improve the mental and physical health of men affected by prostate cancer.
Michael said his boss, Denis Lucardie from Union Hydraulics in Sale (better known as ‘Dinga’), had been like a father figure to him since he started with the company nearly 20 years ago.
“When Denis was diagnosed with prostate cancer last year, I saw how this disease can completely break even the strongest of men,” he said.
“I wanted to do something to show my support, and when I came across The Long Run last year I thought it was a great opportunity to get involved.
“I enjoy running, so I’ve decided to take part again this year.”
Michael isn’t just planning to run 72km.
He’s committed to pushing himself the extra mile and running 300km throughout September for Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.
“It’s truly heart-breaking to watch someone go through cancer,” Michael said.
“With prostate cancer there is also a lot of added confusion around treatments and where to find support, and a lack of information out there.
“I know the region’s local prostate cancer specialist nurse was pivotal in getting him through the hardest days, so part of raising funds for The Long Run is about ensuing that all men have access to services like this.
“There needs to be more support services available, and awareness, to help men through it.”
In Australia, 45 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every day, with many facing lasting physical and psychological challenges.
About 72 per cent of men with prostate cancer will not seek help for their distress.
“I encourage everyone to jump on board so we can change the statistics and give men and their families the support they need,” Michael said.
He added The Long Run had become a family affair, with his four children taking turns to run with him and get involved too.
People can follow Michael’s efforts and donate via thelongrun.org.au/fundraisers/williamscott/the-long-run-2021.
New participants and teams can also register in one easy step via thelongrun.org.au
More than 3000 people are expected to join The Long Run campaign this year in the hope of raising $1.6 million for prostate cancer research and specialist nurses.
