Sporting a ’stache for Movember

December 11, 2014

Twitter_Movember

There was more facial hair than usual last month at Konica Minolta offices across the country. While some may have thought this was a new fashion trend, in reality nearly 300 employees were participating in “Movember.” This movement began as a small fundraiser nearly 15 years ago and has grown into a global tradition.

During Movember, (formally known as November), men are encouraged to grow a moustache to raise awareness and funds for men’s health issues. Women also participate by encouraging the men in their lives to grow moustaches and by spreading awareness. Spearheaded by the Movember Foundation, more than $559 million has been raised to fund 832 men’s health programs in 21 countries since its establishment.

At Konica Minolta we saw a variety of fashionable moustaches, from “the trucker” to the “boxcar” and “rock star.” But behind the fun and fashion lies an important message. Those participating in Movember were sparking conversations about important issues that have affected almost everyone we know either directly or indirectly.

By encouraging men to get involved in a fun, light-hearted challenge, Movember aims to increase early cancer detection, diagnosis and effective treatments, ultimately reducing the number of preventable deaths. In addition to regular doctor’s visits, Movember encourages men to adopt healthy lifestyles and to be aware of family health history.

One in seven men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, and the risk increases with age. Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men between the ages of 15-35. It is highly treatable, and often curable. That is why early screening and identification of symptoms are important. Mental health is also a serious concern for men and boys. One in four adults in the United States will experience a mental health problem in a given year, with staggeringly high rates among men.

Konica Minolta employees did an outstanding job of spreading awareness and raising funds for these causes during Movember. In total, 23 teams of employees were able to raise $12,798 to support the Movember Foundation’s efforts. Konica Minolta donated an additional $5,000, bringing total donations to $17,798.

Great job to everyone who participated – and thank you for supporting this important cause. Until next Movember, happy shaving!

Join the conversation @BrianCupka.

Brian Cupka
Executive Vice President and General Counsel

Brian Cupka oversees the Legal and Human Resources Departments. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with family, traveling, checking items off his bucket list and building character by cheering on local sports teams that lose more than they win.