A national campaign encouraging men to look after their physical and mental health is getting some local support from a Tillsonburg chiropractor who's been growing moustaches for a good cause for more than a decade.
Movember is celebrating its 20th anniversary in Canada this November, encouraging Canadians to grow moustaches, raise money and start conversations about men's health. This year's campaign, called, "Make a Growmitment," encourages people to challenge a friend to grow a moustache, check in on one another and help raise funds for men's health initiatives.
Todd Minerson, Country Director for Movember Canada, says one of the biggest challenges is overcoming the stigma that prevents men from reaching out when they're struggling.
The campaign supports work in prostate and testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention. According to Movember, nearly 75,000 Canadian men died before reaching the age of 75 in 2023, many from preventable causes.
Minerson says the organization is working to change those outcomes.
Bringing Movember Home to Tillsonburg
In Tillsonburg, chiropractor Dr. Mark Dickson of Library Lane Chiropractic & Wellness Centre is taking part in Movember for the 11th year. In a November 1st Facebook post, Dickson announced that his fundraising efforts have brought in a combined $28,847 over the years, putting him within $1,153 of his $30,000 milestone. He's hoping to reach that mark before the end of November. Dickson even spent October growing a beard to give himself a head start on this year's moustache.
Anyone wishing to support his efforts can visit Dr. Mark Dickson's Movember fundraising page.
Supporting Young People Through Hockey
Movember's work also extends into the hockey community. Through a program called Breaking the Ice, developed in partnership with the Ontario Hockey League and Western Hockey League, the organization is helping young athletes and those around them recognize mental health challenges and find appropriate support.
Minerson says the program is designed to make difficult conversations a little easier.
And growing a moustache isn't the only way to participate. Canadians can also walk or run 60 kilometres during November, organize fundraising events, take on personal challenges or donate to someone who's participating. The 60-kilometre challenge represents the estimated 60 men lost to suicide every hour worldwide.
More information about the national campaign is available at Movember Canada.
