Movember -or- Why I'm growing a mustache that my wife can't stand

Most people do something fun to kick off the summer.  Some go on vacation, others barbecue and hang out in the back yard.  Me?  I had a colonoscopy.  

Not necessarily the way I would recommend to start off a summer, but at the same time, is there truly a good "time of year" to have a colonoscopy?  However, there actually is a right answer when it comes to "when is the right time" to get it done.

1) When your doctor says to do it.

2) After your 40th birthday (especially if you are a man)

3) Sooner if you have a family history of colon cancer or other GI related issues.

But most people won't get it done.  And most men don't want to talk to their doctor's about it.  This is why I am supporting the Movember movement this November by growing a mustache to raise awareness (and much needed funds) for men's health issues.

Just consider these facts:

- A man dies from prostate cancer every 17 1/2 minutes

- A man is 35% more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer than a woman is to be diagnosed with breast cancer

- If treated early on, the chances of surviving prostate and testicular cancer are high (as high as 95%)

But here is the issue.  Men don't talk to their doctors.  Hell, many men don't go to see doctors period.  And frankly, there is no good reason why.  It is just dumb.  And it is even dumber to risk death because of whatever excuse you (or your husband, boyfriend, sibling, co-worker, etc) is giving to not go and see the doctor and have a few routine tests.

I can speak from experience.  No, a colonoscopy wasn't the time of my life.  But honestly, it wasn't bad either.  My root canal hurt way worse and truly, thanks to some powerful (and awesome) drugs, I don't remember a thing (or most anything from the entire day).

If you can, help me not only raise awareness for men's health issues, but also help me raise a little bit of funds for it as well.  You can donate to my Movember page at the link below:

http://us.movember.com/mospace/7813645

I believe in this so much that I even got the ball rolling myself with a small donation.  That's how much I believe in this.  I'm not asking you to do something that I am not supporting myself. 

So go ahead, skip Starbucks tomorrow or have one less beer at the bar and throw a few bucks my way.  Not only will it do your heart some good this November, but it will help to do some good for men across the United States.

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