Vicki L MorrisonSparse to luxurious, moustaches will be showing up everywhere you turn. November has arrived and men everywhere have an excuse to grow a mo for a cause.
The Movember Foundation is the leading global organization committed to changing the face of men’s health. They challenge men to grow moustaches during the month of November, called Movember, to spark conversation and raise funds for prostate cancer, testicular cancer and male mental health.
“It’s incredibly important to us that Canadian Armed Forces Members take part. These Canadian leaders bring amazing value to the campaign. Members from coast to coast grow a Mo for our cause, and that in turn generates incredible awareness and helps to de-stigmatize men taking positive steps toward better health,” says Jeff Lohnes, business engagement manager, Movember Foundation.
Mo Bros, men who grow a moustache, sign up online. They start clean-shaven on November 1 then donate their face for 30 days by growing and grooming a moustaches, raising funds and awareness along the way. Women, known as Mo Sistas, play a key supporting role by signing up as team captains, recruiting Mo Bros, helping to raise funds and encouraging the men in their lives to take action when it comes to their health.
According to Movember organizers men may ignore their health. The average life expectancy for Canadian men is four years less than women, presently 80 years, compared to 84 years. In 2014 an estimated 23,600 Canadian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer and 4,000 men will die from the disease. The incidence of testicular cancer has increased steadily over the last several decades, but the reasons for this increase are poorly understood. In relation to mental health, more than three times more men than women die by suicide in Canada.
Movember started in Melbourne, Australia in 2003. It is now seen around the globe, with campaigns in 21 countries. Funds raised have supported more than 800 men’s health programs to date.
In Canada, $151.6 million has been raised since 2007. The funds have been committed to more than 200 programs in support of men’s health. The Movember Foundation credits 613 CAF Mo Bros and Mo Sistas for raising $69,430 for the 2013 campaign.
CAF Mo’s are among the finest in the country. There are several reasons for this including the military member’s incredible level professional preparation and training.
“They hone their laser focus at work and apply it to moustache growth as well, giving them the best possible opportunity for optimal moustache growth,” said Lohnes.
Also, Lohnes believes it is hard for anyone to compete with a moustache when a man accompanies it with a military uniform. They are made for each other.
For more information on growing your mo for a cause please visit www.movember.com
CAF members who are growing a mo to raise awareness and funds for the Movember Foundation are encouraged to let Canadian Military Family Magazine see their progress. Please email photos to [email protected]
