Prostate cancer is not funny, but humor is often a powerful tool in raising awareness about issues people are often afraid to confront head on. Such is the case with 12 women from New Jersey, including Kathleen Garner of Wyckoff, who have shed their clothes for a calendar to raise funds for the Prostate Cancer Coalition of New Jersey. Taking the idea from the story portrayed in “The Calendar Girls” which told a similar story of women raising money for leukemia, the tastefully done calendar can be purchased at: http://www.pcc-nj.org.
Other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men. The latest American Cancer Society estimates about 1 man in 6 will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime; about 1 man in 35 will die of prostate cancer. It was once the disease of a more senior population, and it still predominantly affects them, but rates are going up in the younger age groups. It is advised now that men begin getting prostate exams once they reach age 40. New procedures and advancements offer greater hope for those diagnosed with the disease, and early intervention is always critical.
Well known public figures such as actor Dennis Hopper and Hornets owner George Shinn have been lending their voices to raise awareness of the cancer both men battle. This is also the month of “Movember”, which is a combination of moustache and November. The idea for Movember was sparked in 2003 over a few beers in Melbourne, Australia. The guys behind it joked about 80s fashion and decided it was time to bring the mustache back. This month, around the globe, men grow mustaches much like the pink ribbon for breast cancer, as an act of support and to provide an opening for conversation on what can be an embarrassing subject. Readers can learn more at http://us.movember.com.
The procedure for prostate exams has been the “butt” of many jokes, and humor can sometimes help men get over the fear of having the exam done. In addition to annual exams to catch prostate exams in the early stages, studies are finding that moderate exercise - 4-to-6 hours of walking a week - can help reduce the possibility of prostate cancer. Studies have also found a lower incidence in Asian countries and are attributing this to diet. Still, there have not been enough studies done for any conclusive research. There is a real need for learning more of how this disease can be prevented, and for finding more successful treatments.
All of the women in the calendar have been in love with a man diagnosed with prostate cancer, some surviving and some having passed on. The photography is fine art quality with carefully chosen settings. The women themselves are clothed in courage, beauty, and humor; tasteful props keep the images appropriate for all ages. Get involved in helping a worthy cause by visiting the Calendar Girls at http://www.pcc-nj.org.
