By Alana Mitchelson
A PAKENHAM man has gone the extra mile towards Movember, not only growing a moustache but colouring it purple as well.
Pakenham’s Steve Vella wears a purple uniform, works in a purple building, drives a purple car and has now committed to growing a purple moustache – all in the name of men’s health.
He will be among almost 400 staff and franchisees of Battery World Australia who have taken the challenge after a number of team members have battled with prostate cancer this year.
Mr Vella was quick to jump on board when fellow franchisee and friend David Mathison was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
“When you hear the word cancer it is a real shock,” David said.
“When I hit my mid-forties I thought I should have the prostate cancer PSA check (prostate-specific antigen) and when the results came back that my numbers were high I was immediately referred to a urologist.”
Mr Mathison said that the “real devil” was early detection.
“I am lucky in that I have the cancer cells but, at this stage, they are just there and not doing anything. I have annual tests to check that everything is under control,” he said.
“My father had prostate cancer and lived until 90 so I guess I have the same cancer that he had.
“My message to men is to take the blood test and if it happens to lead to having the next test, think about your options – would you rather die of cancer or have a moment you might find embarrassing?”
Franchisee Greg Leslie is also leading a call to arms after his father has beaten cancer twice thanks to early intervention.
“My dad, Bill, was typical of men from his generation. He has never been one for doctors especially when he was younger, but as he has gotten older he has seen the wisdom,” Mr Leslie said.
“He has now been clear of prostate cancer for four years. Just last week he was released from hospital after they successfully removed bowel cancer – all thanks to catching it early.
“While the female franchisees and staff across Australia will sport fake moustaches, the whole male team from stores to support office, will do their best to grow and dye our mo’s purple in the hope that being a bit silly helps get the message across to men that they are not invincible.”
For more information about Movember, visit au.movember.com.
