Movember Profile – Jonny from Wintermitts

Movember. If you have been wondering why there seems to be more moustaches around all of a sudden, then you’ll be happy to know that there’s a reason. I happen to rather dislike the Movember look. A Moustache is not for everyone. My Dad has had a moustache for my entire life, but that is somehow different than all of these (thankfully) one-month-only creations that give me the NO feeling.

However, I think it’s a great way for everyone to support and talk about men’s health and prostate cancer. Yesterday there was this glorious sunshine and I had the thought that I could be a part of this by photographing some of the folks involved, despite my thoughts about the moustache.

My friend Jonny had a few minutes to spare between errands and getting ready for a gig. He’s in the Vancouver band Wintermitts, and I saw them play last night for the first time. WOW!!!! Music to dance to and get excited about. The band really loves to play together – it’s infectious.

Back to Movember – I asked Jonny a few things about why he’s growing the moustache.

I am doing Movember because it is a great cause; one in every 6 men will be diagnosed with cancer of the prostate at some point in their lives, and this year alone more than 4,400 men will die as a direct result. Those are some scary numbers. If I can help with reducing them in some small way, then this is it.

My grandfather was diagnosed with prostate cancer within the last couple of years, and because of medical research funding from campaigns like Movember, he has been in remission ever since. I think it’s working.

Not everyone knows about Movember, and part of the goal of it is to make people talk about men’s health. That can be an awkward conversation.

I have had many chances to explain Movember to those questioning my ridiculous moustache, yes. Many are surprised to know I’m not just trying to be fashionable. The moustache growing aspect of Movember is a brilliant idea as it catches people off guard, incites conversation, and gives you the opportunity to discuss the campaign.

I think a sense of humour needs to be a part of Movember, and Jonny has it. It’s his second time involved, and you can donate through his MoSpace page – http://ca.movember.com/mospace/57097/