This March, a dedicated 23-year-old from South Wales is significantly increasing his daily step count by participating in Prostate Cancer UK's virtual fundraising initiative, March the Month. Luke has committed to walking 11,000 steps each day throughout the month to support the leading men's health charity and raise crucial funds for its vital work.
Walking in Tribute and Hope
Luke's ambitious daily target of 11,000 steps symbolically represents the more than 11,000 fathers, partners, brothers, grandfathers, and friends who tragically lose their lives to prostate cancer every single year in the UK. His motivation stems from a deeply personal place, having been inspired to take part in the challenge for his beloved grandfather, affectionately known as 'bampie'.
The young fundraiser has set a goal of raising £300 to contribute to Prostate Cancer UK's mission of stopping men from dying from this prevalent disease. The funds collected by participants like Luke are instrumental in financing groundbreaking research into life-saving treatments and providing essential practical support to men and their families navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis.
A Personal Journey Fuelling Action
Luke shared his heartfelt reasons for joining the campaign, stating: "I have decided to take on March the Month to help support Prostate Cancer UK because, this time last year, my grandpa was told his prostate cancer had returned. In an effort to do something positive, I participated in the March the Month challenge and successfully raised more than £200."
He added with relief and determination: "During that challenge period, he underwent surgery and is now officially cancer-free once more. I am really looking forward to challenging myself this March, and I’m delighted to be raising awareness of the disease and much-needed funds to stop prostate cancer from limiting lives."
The Impact of Collective Effort
The March the Month campaign has demonstrated remarkable success since its inception, having raised an impressive total of more than £4 million. This achievement is powered by a tireless community of over 23,000 dedicated walkers who have collectively covered a staggering distance exceeding 2 billion miles.
Seren Evans, Head of Events and Community Fundraising at Prostate Cancer UK, commented on Luke's participation and the wider effort: "Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with 1 in 8 receiving a diagnosis in their lifetime. We’re incredibly proud that Luke is taking on March the Month to help us fund critical scientific research aimed at stopping prostate cancer from damaging the lives of men and their loved ones."
Evans continued, highlighting the communal spirit: "The March the Month participants, including Luke, have well and truly shown how families, friends, and communities can work together, both locally and across the UK, to help save lives. We thank Luke and everyone who has signed up to the challenge for going that extra mile this March."
