Movember, which was founded in Australia, celebrates its second year in Canada. In 2007, more than $545,000 was raised in Canada alone and end of the month Gala Parties were held in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton and Toronto. This year, Movember hopes to raise one million dollars for the Prostate Cancer Research Foundation of Canada (PCRFC) and will be holding an additional Gala Parté in Victoria BC. Participants can register on www.Movember.com and can also track the funds raised across the globe on this Web site: Canada is currently second in donations worldwide.

“Males traditionally shy away from health issues and concerns, so Movember is a means to educate men about prostate cancer and emphasize the importance of prostate exams in a non-traditional way,” says Adam Garone, Movember co-founder and North American Operations Director. “Movember is literally changing the face of men’s health and if we can encourage just one exam that leads to early detection, we’ve succeeded.”

On Movember first, men start with a clean shaven face and start growing and grooming their Mos. These Mo Bros – and their supporting Mo Sistas – raise awareness and donations throughout the month, and come together at the end of the month to celebrate the hairy upper lip.

“Prostate cancer is a very real concern but the good news is that with early detection, the disease is entirely treatable,” says Steve Jones, President and CEO, Prostate Cancer Research Foundation of Canada. “Movember takes a new approach to raising funds and awareness – Mo Bros are donating their face for an entire month for this great cause, and having fun doing it.”