Free pizza a boost to Movember campaign

Dr. Mark Dickson, along with his support team of children, Josie and Thomas, will raise money for Movember to support men’s health. Donors to the campaign will receive a large Domino's Pizza. (Jeff Helsdon Photo).

Jeff Helsdon

Dr. Mark Dickson is hoping the community will again get on board with his campaign to reach $25,000 raised as part of the Movember campaign.

The local chiropractor has been raising money for prostate cancer, testicular cancer and men’s mental health since 2015. To date, he has collected $23,876 towards the cause.

“One of the main reasons I support Movember is a lot of men are self-conscious about talking about health issues,” he said. “They think they are tough and push health aside.”

Dickson has had family members and friends who have had prostate cancer.

“It’s given me a lot more motivation to do this each year,” he said.

It especially hit home this year as he lost a close friend and mentor who lost his life when prostate cancer spread.

Dickson has fun with the campaign, posting photos of his latest mustache while dressed in costume to social media.

“It’s quite amazing that through growing mustaches and having fun these kinds of funds can be raised,” he said.

New for this year, supporters of the campaign will receive a certificate for a free large Dominos pizza. Dickson explained his neighbour owns Dominos and made the generous offer. Put another way, those who donate can receive a tax receipt and a gift certificate for a pizza.

Donations can be made through https://ca.movember.com/mospace/12563117 or by dropping them off at Dickson at Library Lane Chiropractic at One Library Lane. Those making online donations can stop at Dickson’s office to pick up pizza gift certificates.

Dickson is aware he has a way to go to meet his goal but said a lot of donations come in at the last minute. He believes excitement builds around what costume he will wear in his final promotion photo of the year. While he wouldn’t reveal details, he said it would be connected to a Simpsons character. In the past, he dressed up as Hulk Hogan and a cowboy, amongst others.

Outside of Movember, Dickson encourages men to talk about their prostate health, get a PSA blood test, and be more active in preventative health.