I can't quite explain my fascination with Movember. I mean, part of it stems from my love of moustaches & facial hair in general. Let's face it - nothing gets me going like a good old fashioned beard.
But I also equate the men's health movement with feminism in that it empowers individuals to overcome obstacles set by stereotypes regarding their gender. In the same way that He For She encourages men to get on board with feminism, I think women need to get on board with men's health. So I especially love that Movember added a "Movement" component to their campaign this year for those of us who can't grow a moustache. Though sometimes I really wish I could have a beard of my own to stroke when I'm pondering life's mysteries.
I think deep down, though it's a bit of a stretch, a large part of my obsession with Movember comes from missing my old man. His life wasn't taken by a health related incident, but rather a tragic accident. Who knows if it could've been prevented, but that's not the point. The point is, there are fathers, grandfathers, husbands, brothers, uncles, nephews, sons, and friends who DO have the option to take preventative measures to ensure they're here for the long haul. And if my old man had a choice, I know he'd have faught til the bitter end.
So I guess my fight is to encourage those who are still around, to do everything they can to take care of their bodies and minds. 'Cause accidents happen, and sometimes theres nothing you can do about it, but don't let something that could have been prevented take you away from your friends and family. Do right by those who didn't have that opportunity to make a change.
One person I admire with great intensity is Mr. Ron Telpner. I adore this man with everything that I am. He has a sensational spirit that has the ability to light up even the darkest of rooms. His creative ideas flow like a river and he inspires me to think and dream bigger than I ever imagined. In his interview with CBC, he talks about being able to remember exactly what he was wearing when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Well, Ron, I could never forget what I was wearing when I met you! That was a life-changing moment for me, in the best way! Here we are at the Movember Gala, Ron looking dapper as always.
If you couldn't quite tell, those are leather moustache pasties, and yes, I did make that dress myself. But enough about me and my dressmaking abilities. Needless to say, Ron and I got on famously. I told him I wanted to put on a fashion show for Movember - to get the ladies involved - and he loved the idea! Soon after, we met for a brainstorming session, and he encouraged me to think big. And there, Unbounded was born. Though we'd originally wanted to have the event this year, it soon became a much larger undertaking than I could have ever imagined and in order to preserve the integrity of the event, we've postponed it until 2016. So stay tuned for that!
This year, I won't be campainging for donations, but I do encourage you to donate to Ron's campaign. Every little bit goes a long way. Want to know where your money's going? Check out all the great things Movember's doing here.
If Movember's goals aren't enough to get you to pull out your wallet, here are 3 reasons why I contributed to Ron's campaign.
1. He's a babe.
Whoa now. I don't mean that in an objectifying kind of way. 'Cause objectification is so not cool. I mean, he's got style. That extra bit of confidence you get when you know you're lookin' fly - sometimes that's the difference between a good day and a bad day. Feeling confident and loving yourself are synonymous. Everyone should be empowered to look and feel their best. That's how healthy people are built.
2. He's also a hero.
By sharing his experience, others are being exposed to different treatment options, and as we all know - knowledge is power. Educate yourself by reading this Toronto Star article.
3. He'll show you his scars.
With Ron, no subject is too taboo. TMI? Not part of Ron's vocabulary. He speaks openly about his journey, holding nothing back. Change begins with a conversation, and Ron is all about opening up that dialog.
So ladies and gents, if you wish to contribute to Ron's campaign - feel free to do so here.
To me, Movember is about more than growing a moustache, it's about changing the way we think about men and masculinity. I hope you join the movement, one way or another.