As we move into the last few days of Movember, it’s important to remember the very real reason we fundraise for men’s health.
(Masks were removed for the purpose of this photo and physical distancing was maintained at all times)
Mernda Fire Brigade firefighter Jye OToole said Movember is very significant for him, especially this year.
“Movember is important to me as I’ve had a few mates who've had significant health issues,” Jye said. “One of my friends has testicular cancer and they found out it had spread to his stomach.
“There’s also the mental health side of things, I’ve struggled myself and as a bloke it’s hard to reach out sometimes.
“I know a lot of people who go through stuff and don’t speak out because they think it’s embarrassing or makes them look weak.”
Jye said that this year is a standout year for us all to focus on our mental and physical health.
“Lots of people have lost their jobs due to COVID-19, which then creates more mental health problems, and if you’ve got a family or bills to pay and you’ve lost your job it makes it more difficult, especially if you can’t reach out.
“I know a lot of people who are struggling this year and I’m sure there are hundreds or thousands of people that are really struggling and don’t know how to reach out or whether they even can reach out.
“I want to let people know that reaching out is OK,” Jye added. “Always get yourself checked, don’t ever be embarrassed to speak out or seek help.”
Mernda Fire Brigade hopes to raise as much as they can over the month of November, and you can show your support by donating through the Mernda Brigade Movember page.
Money raised will go towards funding and delivering mental health services and help meet Movember’s goal to reduce male suicide by 25 per cent by 2030. You can find out more on the Movember website.
CFA has already raised nearly $16,000 and is currently seventh place in the First Responders Challenge. You can view CFA’s Movember page online.
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