I would like to respond to the letter Mr. Fonger wrote that was published on Oct. 31. He mentioned he was not familiar with any efforts to recognize men’s health and cancer awareness similar to “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” or other similar women’s health initiatives.

May I point Mr. Fonger to the “Movember” campaign where men are encouraged to grow out their mustache as a visible symbol to raise awareness of health issues plaguing men — prostate health, colon health, mental health, suicide prevention, and much more. The campaign encourages men to de-stigmatize men’s health, promoting healthy lifestyles, health screenings, mental health treatment and preventative care. Many early deaths in men (and women) are preventable with these measures.

There are national campaigns aligned with the Movember movement, but if those interested would like to have a more direct impact locally, I would encourage them to go to www.grh.org/healthiertogether and make a donation to the Grande Ronde Hospital Foundation. This campaign is helping to support capacity growth at GRH, which includes the new surgical center housed in the campus expansion building currently under construction. This will house new procedure rooms that will increase the volume of cancer screenings such as colonoscopies and biopsies, as well as help purchase enhanced diagnostic equipment that will aid in essential screenings. Other future projects include the expansion of access to primary care and behavioral health care.

I hope Mr. Fonger will join me in growing out a (admittedly meager in my case) mustache to join my chin goatee for the month of November!

Patrick Flynn

La Grande

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