Living with stage four prostate cancer, Gymea local Geoffrey Blake walks 72km to give other men 'a better chance at life'
For Gymea local Geoffrey Blake, the fight against prostate cancer is personal. Living with stage four prostate cancer, he's taking on The Long Run this September to help ensure other men can access vital research and clinical trials.
The event, led by Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA), encourages Australians to cover at least 72km throughout Prostate Cancer Awareness Month – a symbolic distance honouring the 72 men diagnosed with the disease each day.
Mr Blake was first diagnosed in late 2022 after noticing unusual symptoms and undergoing a PSA blood test. The cancer had already spread to his bones, and his treatment journey since then has been long and complex, including surgery, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and drug trials.
“I know firsthand how important research and clinical trials are,” said Mr Blake. “They give men like me a better chance at life.
Now on a clinical trial, Mr Blake is determined to make a difference for others facing the same battle. He first joined The Long Run last year, managing to walk 22km in one day. This year, he’s aiming to walk the full 72km across the month.
“It helps me feel like I’m doing something, and I enjoy walking,” he added. “I’ve also told my sons to get checked regularly. With our family history, they’re at 50 per cent higher risk. It’s only a blood test.
“Every step I take this September will be for the thousands of men and families who are impacted each year.”
To support Mr Blake, visit www.thelongrun.org.au/fundraisers/geoffreyblake
More than 26,000 Australian men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year. PCFA is on a mission to reach zero deaths from the disease by investing in research, awareness, and vital support services for men and their families.
PCFA CEO Anne Savage encouraged the community to get on board.
“Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia,” Ms Savage said.
“While survival rates are drastically improving, around 4,000 men are still dying from the disease each year.
“It’s our goal to invest in lifesaving research and clinical trials that will help save their lives, and in addition, provide access to vital support services to help them navigate this devastating disease.”
Ms Savage said that taking part in The Long Run was a practical way for everyday Australians to help join the fight to save more lives.
“We’re on a mission to defeat this disease, but we can’t do it alone,” she said.
“Every Australian has the power to play a part in this fight – whether you raise funds or raise awareness about the disease this September, it all makes a difference.”
Those who sign up and raise $50 or more by September 1 will also receive a free event T-shirt.
Visit www.thelongrun.org.au today to get involved.
