Jack Layton’s death at the far-too-young age of 61 certainly sent shockwaves around the country, regardless of what political party you support. As a man, he was regarded as strong, intelligent, passionate about his beliefs and, perhaps most importantly, darn likable.
The speed of his decline also caused a universal shudder to ripple down the backs of all men as they realized how something that can’t be seen by the naked eye could eat away such a vibrant person so quickly.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among Canadian men. It afflicts one in every seven, and although it is more common over the age of 50 — especially if there is family history — it has begun showing up in men in their 40s. Cancer is a bastard that likes to change the rules every chance it gets.
There isn’t enough medical evidence available to say that prostate cancer is preventable, especially since it often appears without any symptoms, but the earlier it is detected, the better your chances of surviving to see the smiling faces of your grandchildren.
In Canada this year, 25,500 men will be diagnosed with the disease. This figure does not include the numerous cases that go undiagnosed due to men’s stubborn and old-fashioned unwillingness to go for annual check-ups.
The prostate exam is the laugh-out-loud stuff of legend for standup comics, but how will you truly appreciate the punchline unless you’re willing to go for the exam? The silly part: it doesn’t hurt, takes hardly any time, and it can save your life. If you’re embarrassed, it’s time to get over it. If not for you, for your family. Be a man and get the exam.
Photo Contest - And the prizes are
With the Sept. 1 deadline fast approaching for our 11th Annual Monday Photo Contest, we’ve nailed down what you’re competing for — alongside being part of an invite-all-your-friends gala show at the new Cedar Hill Arts Centre. Every entrant will be entered into a random draw for $100 cash prize, plus the winners in each of the six categories will receive:
1st Prize: $175 gift certificate to Prism Imaging
2nd Prize: $100 gift certificate to Prism Imaging
3rd Prize: $50 gift certificate to Art World
Also, every photo is eligible to win one of four Prism Choice awards of a $100 gift certificate from Prism Imaging. See details on page 12. M