Movember 2009 Launches With Support of Prime Minister

As online registrations open around the country for Movember 2009, the organisers are pleased that Prime Minister John Key has announced his support for the moustache-growing charity event.

Kiwi men around the country will soon be growing mo’s during the month Movember to help raise awareness and funds in support of men’s health.

Funds raised by Movember will be donated to the Cancer Society of New Zealand in support of prostate cancer and the Mental Health Foundation for its ‘Out of the Blue’ depression awareness campaign.
Over the past two years, almost 40,000 Kiwi’s have taken part in Movember raising over $3 million in aid of men’s health charities.

Mr Key says he is proud to lend his support to the not-for-profit charity’s ongoing efforts in raising awareness of prostate cancer and men’s depression, even though his job prevents him from growing a moustache himself.

Mr Key will be giving the charity recognition by wearing a pair of stylish Movember cufflinks during the month-long event at a number of engagements.

The Cancer Society’s CEO Dalton Kelly says he is thrilled that Movember is receiving the backing of the Prime Minister.

“Mr Key’s support will no doubt emphasise to Kiwi men the importance of monitoring their health and to be more proactive in seeking help when necessary.

“The Cancer Society will be using Movember funding to research into the causes, detection, diagnosis and improved treatment of prostate cancer,” says Kelly.

Movember founder Jim Slattery says the unwavering support of New Zealanders will ensure that this year’s event will be the most successful ever.

“Movember plays an important role in helping men become more open and proactive in dealing with their health issues.”

Slattery says growing a mo offers a fun and interactive way to get behind a very worthy charity in support of these serious issues.”

To find out more information or to register, visit www.movember.co.nz.

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About Movember
Movember (the month formerly known as November) is an annual, month-long charity men’s health charity event that raises money for Cancer Society of New Zealand and the New Zealand Mental Health Foundation. At the start of Movember, men register with a clean shaven face and have the remainder of the month to grow and groom their moustache, raising as much money and awareness as possible to benefit men’s health.

Movember culminates at the end of the month at official Gala Parties in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch - the highlight of any Mo Bro’s and Mo Sista’s social calendar. Every Mo Bro has a chance to win the coveted 'Man of Movember' title.

For more information about prostate cancer call the Cancer Information Helpline 0800 CANCER (226 237) or visit the society's website www.cancernz.org.nz

For more information about depression or about getting help or advice contact your GP or Health Line on 0800 611 116. You can also visit www.mentalhealth.org.nz or www.outoftheblue.org.nz.