Durban bro grows his mo for cancer awareness

BY the end of this month, Escombe resident Phil Gandy’s moustache may rival that of Tom Selleck, Sam Elliot or Jack Parow, all of whom boast impressive moustaches.

The 45-year-old is part of a global community of people making a difference by raising awareness of men’s health issues.

Also known as Movember or No Shave November, the month sees people grow moustaches, and in some cases, beards, for the entire month to raise awareness about prostate and testicular cancer, as well as suicide awareness.

Also read: Men’s Health Month: Facts about prostrate cancer

“For me, growing my moustache has added significance as I lost my father to lymphatic leukaemia. My mother, who is now in remission, was also diagnosed with leukaemia, and I know a close friend who had cancer. So, in solidarity with them and in memory of my father, I am growing my ‘tache’ to raise awareness of cancer. I’ve also had conversations with others who have lost family to cancer as a way to speak up about men’s health,” he explained.

Gandy said he hopes to inspire others to also grow their facial hair in support of the month.

“My wife was horrified when I told her I was growing a mo this year, however, in a few weeks’ time, I’ll be sporting a Tom Selleck-esque moustache, and she may change her mind,” he quipped. “I actually think by November 20, I’ll have my own bushy caterpillar. I would encourage others to participate during the month and if they are able to, donate to a local cause or the international one on cancer awareness and men’s health awareness,” he said.

To find out more about Movember and to support the cause, visit www.movember.com.

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