November 2023 marks my eight-year milestone of completing cancer treatment. Despite receiving an all-clear after chemotherapy in November 2015, the journey continued for two more challenging years, facing fatigue and overcoming mental hurdles to establish a new normal.
I’m forever grateful for the strong support network of family, friends, Microsoft colleagues, counseling services, along with an early diagnosis.
Openly sharing my experience was pivotal in receiving the necessary support. Unfortunately, not all men are as open about their challenges, often facing stigma. During November, I aim to raise awareness to encourage early cancer diagnosis and bolster men’s mental health support.
For now, I’ll share a startling statistic: the rate of male suicide is 3 times that of woman globally. That stat applies across all the major modern and developing countries that most of the readers here live in. Clearly mental health among men and boys is an issue that we all need to learn more about.
Together, I hope we can strive to make a difference by raising awareness around “Zero Male Suicide” – the theme for the 2023 International Men’s Day on 19th November.
🤔 What does “International Men’s Day” (IMD) mean?
Observed on the 19th of November, International Men’s Day (IMD) raises awareness about men’s mental and physical health, advocates positive masculinity, and celebrates ethical male role models.
👨🏻👨🏼👨🏽 What is “Movember”?
Movember represents a movement centered on Men’s Health. Initially recognized for its annual moustache-growing charity events, it has evolved into a broader men’s health awareness month. Movember dedicates its efforts towards funding research and support for Testicular Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Men’s Mental Health, and Suicide Prevention.
🍻 Join me for an informal get-together on *Thursday, 30th November* in Singapore!
To celebrate IMD and end of Movember with casual drinks, snacks, and networking:
- Very Informal: No panel discussions, no speeches, no name badges.
- Simply drop by, enjoy some sips and bites, reconnect with familiar faces, and potentially forge new professional relationships.
- Drop in, drop out whenever you like during the evening to suit your diary and plans.
- The venue pledges a portion of its revenues as a donation to Movember. While there’s no obligation, you can also directly contribute to Movember using the QR code provided in the flyer below.
- This event is NOT exclusive to men: “Mo Sistas” are welcome too!
- Attendance is free, and the invitation is open. Spread the word using the flyer and registration link provided.
- Whilst the cause is serious and sombre – the event will certainly not be sombre! 😀
✍️ Register now:
Spend just 30 seconds to sign up here.
