Movember is about sharing a memory of someone who has died or solidarity with someone who is ill.
Throughout November, men all over the world take part in Movember, a campaign where participants grow moustaches through the 30-day month to raise awareness of men’s health issues, as well as raising donations that go to various organizations attached to prostate cancer and mental health.
One group of about 15 Estevan men includes a number of representatives from the Estevan Police Service, though it’s not exclusive to the cops, as it includes members of Estevan Fire Rescue along with other community members.
EPS constable Jay Pierson has been growing a moustache for a number of years as part of the Movember campaign. Originally, the movement focused on prostate cancer but has since broadened its approach to include mental health issues as well.
When Pierson talks about awareness, it’s not so much about informing anyone that health issues exist and need to be monitored or treated. He said it’s about changing how men talk about these issues, and if they don’t talk at all, encouraging a greater openness to discuss health issues.
Pierson’s father passed away after being diagnosed with cancer, and a number of his family members have joined to take part in Movember this year. He also has co-workers or previous co-workers who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
“Everybody who participates usually has somebody in mind of who they’re doing it to show respect for or show a memory of, and create an awareness and raise some funds for the cause,” said Pierson.
He said the awareness has come not necessarily in an increase in men booking check ups with their doctors, but in how to speak about prostate cancer.
“Certainly in dialogue (I’ve seen changes) and over the last two years a second cause has been added, mental health awareness. That again creates the dialogue. When you have a bunch of men wearing the moustaches that we generally sport, that is going to draw some attention.”
The stares are welcomed.
Movember has become something of an expected spectacle over the month of November, said Pierson. If it went away, there may be a rather large void.
But this campaign also must run in the Internet Age, when campaigns like the Ice Bucket Challenge burst onto the scene in a way so that people forget why they’re there in the first place. The activity overshadows the campaign.
Pierson doesn’t think Movember is seen the same way. It has staying power.
“The reminder is strongly there. It’s a month-long campaign. It’s very visible. It’s day-to-day activities. It’s not a one-time event. It’s a month-long process, where everybody can tell what you’re an advocate for.”
That, he said, is the power of Movember.
Those interested in donating to the group’s page may visit it here.
