Movember fundraiser raises prostate awareness
Their stories are similar, and their cause is the same.
For Lansdowne Centre general manager Jason Roberts and Richmond realtor Keith Liedtke, it was a familial link to prostate cancer that drew them in to being involved in Movember, the annual fundraiser for prostate-related awareness and healthcare initiatives.
“It’s ironic, because my father was actually diagnosed earlier this year with prostate cancer,” said Roberts. “We’re very close and this is something that was brought to my attention by my marketing manager.”
And while his wife isn’t a great believer in facial hair, that’s something he’s willing to endure for such a worthy cause.
Roberts recalls participating in Movember years back, through his rugby clubs, but now the cause is closer to his heart.
“This is something that actually means something to me now.”
Fundraising is through Lansdowne Centre’s website, with proceeds from the Richmond Moustache Challenge directed to the Richmond Hospital Foundation and the hospital’s urology department.
Liedtke said his connection to the cause is actually a happy one.
It was a few years ago when his father was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
“He was lucky. They got it in time.”
Liedtke’s father, who turns 85 next week, is today totally recovered, and is healthy and strong.
Liedtke said he’s been involved with many charitable causes over the years, from the B.C. Children’s Hospital and local charities.
“But this is something that would be a fun thing to do and draws awareness.”
To donated to Liedtke’s effort, visit mobro.co/2937173
During the month of November, the Movember effort sees men sprout their facial hair to raise awareness and funds for prostate cancer and male mental health initiatives. Originating in Melbourne, Australia in 2003, the effort has gone global, with the initiative raising $125.7 million in 2011.
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