Author: Tammy Lane • First Posted: Monday, November 22, 2010

Nearly a dozen men on staff at Tates Creek Middle decided to grow moustaches all month to call attention to men's health issues like prostate cancer. Front row: Phillip Clay, Michael Price and Mike Webster; back row: Trevor Sundy, principal Greg Quenon and Lucius Winding. (Photo: Tammy L. Lane)

The men of Tates Creek Middle School are growing moustaches during “Movember” to raise awareness of men’s health concerns, particularly prostate cancer.

“We’ll go to ballgames or play a round of golf and never say a word. Guys just don’t talk about it,” said associate principal Michael Price, who rallied faculty and staff to sport a “mo” for the cause. “It’s a great avenue to get conversation started.”

Probably more people are familiar with October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

“Women do a great job committing to their cause. It’s not a scary thing to talk about,” Price said.

Nearly a dozen school colleagues are trying to make people just as comfortable talking about prostate cancer, which will strike 1 in 6 men in their lifetime.

“Through a lighthearted experience of growing a moustache, we’re just trying to bring awareness,” Price said.

The moustaches, like pink ribbons, symbolize their 30-day commitment.

Students, who are invited to donate money for medical research, have gotten a kick out of the men’s efforts.

“The kids are like, ‘What’s that dirt on your lip?’” Price said with a grin.

On a serious note, he thinks Movember will make a lasting impression.

“We hope the kids go home and talk with their dads and say, ‘Hey, are you taking care of yourself?’”

Online: www.movember.com (Funds raised through Movember’s U.S. campaign benefit the Prostate Cancer Foundation and LIVESTRONG, the Lance Armstrong Foundation.)