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Mustaches abound in Prince Rupert as Movember gets underway

Prince Rupert men are growing out their facial hair in November to create a better understanding of the health risks men face.
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John Ferrell

Prince Rupert men are growing out their facial hair in November to create a better understanding of the health risks men face.

Movember is an international, month-long event where men grow out their moustaches during November each year to raise money and awareness for men's health issues, such as prostate and testicular cancer, as well as depression.

This year, a group of Prince Rupert men have initiated an effort to get more North Coast men involved with the Movember Foundation's annual event. Iain Cullen, Gerard Dolan, John Farrell, Scott Farwell and Michael Gurney have created a Prince Rupert team for this year's efforts on the foundation's Canadian website, ca.movember.com.

On Saturday, members of the committee were at the civic centre encouraging men to register and join the Prince Rupert team online.

"There's always been a lot of positive individual response to these types of fundraisers for the Canadian Cancer Society. Together we feel we could inspire others to become involved," said Gurney.

"Prince Rupert has so much community spirit and generosity. It's powerful when it's funnelled in one direction."

Gurney said as of Oct. 29 there were 19 members signed up on Prince Rupert's team.

RCMP Constable Sean Willimott registered last Saturday, saying the event is a fun way to raise money for a good cause.

"Awareness is a big part of it, too. It opens people's eyes to [men's health issues]," he said.

The Movember Foundation hopes the event not only raises money for charities, but also aims to increase early detection, encouraging men to get annual check-ups and take action to remain well.

While men are encouraged to start growing their moustaches on Nov. 1, Gurney said they can register and begin growing facial hair anytime during the month.

"I encourage all men to visit ca.movember.com and sign up to grow some spectacular facial hair, and begin the fundraising process for Movember," Gurney said, adding women can also be involved through the Mo Sistas arm of the campaign.

At the end of the month, Prince Rupert Mo's team will hold a pub event at the Crest Hotel for all participants.