On Sunday 23rd April I successfully completed my second ever marathon (the first time was way back in 1988 at the tender age of 18!).
I was running for The Prostate Cancer Charity, which I chose to run for after a family friend died recently from the disease. Aside from my own ignorance I was very surprised to discover how little was known about the condition by my family and friends... Hands up who knows where the prostate gland is? ... exactly!
"Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer (other than skin cancer) among men and it is second only to lung cancer as a cause of cancer-related death among men".
When I first read the above statement I felt shocked and angered that I hadn't known more about it. Prostate cancer has been a neglected health issue for too long, neither understood by the public nor prioritised by politicians. It was against this background that The Prostate Cancer Charity was setup in 1996 to raise awareness and political debate about services and support. Their vision is to achieve for men, in relation to prostate cancer, what has so successfully been achieved for women and breast cancer.
In the USA, Over the past 20 years, the survival rate for prostate cancer has increased from 67% to 97%* so we have a long way to go before British men can expect the same levels of care and prevention. You can make a difference and any amount you can donate is very much appreciated, however small!
Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: The Prostate Cancer Charity will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.
So please sponsor me now! :)
Many thanks for your support!
DANIEL PRINCE
*Source: American Cancer Society, Cancer Facts and Figures 2003
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