By Xavier Smerdon
FOOTBALL is being used as a way to encourage men from Wyndham to take a proactive step with their health and have regular prostate checks.
Carlton Football Club’s Bryce Gibbs is the face of a campaign calling for male residents from Wyndham to speak to their GP about prostate cancer.
According to figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics Census Age and Population for Wyndham City Council, more than 6230 men in Wyndham are expected to develop prostate cancer in their lifetime, with nearly 20,000 Australian men diagnosed each year.
Mr Gibbs will be a part of a clash between Collingwood and Carlton at the MCG on Saturday 16 July for the Richard Pratt Cup in honour of the AFL legend who passed away following a long battle with prostate cancer.
Mr Gibbs said the annual battle between the two clubs was another way to bring awareness to an often taboo topic.
“We want the Richard Pratt Cup to continue to raise awareness of this disease, as we work with the Richard Pratt Fellowships in Prostate Cancer to identify improved treatments for sufferers,” Mr Gibbs said.
At the match, 15,000 blue ponchos will be handed out to supporters “signifying the impact of the disease on Australian men”.
Fifty fans will also form a guard of honour on field before the game to honour Richard Pratt.
“Carlton Football Club is asking any footy fans and members of the Wyndham community who have been affected by prostate cancer to register to participate in the guard of honour,” Mr Gibbs said.
“The Richard Pratt Cup was developed to encourage men – everywhere – to consult their GP and ensure they are regularly screened for prostate cancer.”
Visit www.carltonfc.com.au for more information or to make a donation towards fighting prostate cancer.
