09 February 2022
Valentine’s Day can be a tough day for local men living with prostate cancer, but this year it will be a little easier thanks to Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia’s new Forget-Me-Not campaign.
The campaign lets people make a donation to buy a virtual Forget-Me-Not, dedicating it to those who have been impacted by the disease.
Hundreds of Forget-Me-Nots are now on display in PCFA’s virtual Garden of Hope, with all proceeds to research, awareness, and support.
PCFA CEO Anne Savage said the campaign would give all those impacted by the disease a chance to share the love.
“Prostate cancer treatment often takes a toll on relationships, which means Valentine’s Day can sometimes be tough for couples who are affected by the disease,” she said.
“This year, we’re bringing the love back, allowing men and women to share messages of love and hope in our Virtual Garden.
“Every Forget-Me-Not is unique and speaks to a special person in our lives.”
Around 18,000 Australian men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year, and more than 3,300 will die from the disease.
Adelaide newsreader Will McDonald (44) was diagnosed with aggressive State 4 prostate cancer two years ago and has since endured six rounds of chemo, 20 rounds of radiation and ongoing hormone therapy.
Will said he’s dedicated his Forget-Me-Not to his partner, Samantha Kelly.
"In reality, Samantha carries me, every single day. I fight because of her. I fight to stay healthy, strong and positive for her. I fight to give her the most wonderful life I can,” he said.
Ms Kelly said dedicating a Forget-Me-Not this Valentine’s Day provided a way to show a loved one just how much they mean to you.
“Will is doing so much better than we could have expected. Each and every day we face this journey, he leaves me in awe of how he handles himself, the cancer and treatment ... I have a whole new admiration for the guy I love and respect beyond words,” she said.
“And even though we know Will has an incurable prostate cancer, we believe researchers will find an answer for us in time. I’m dedicating my Forget-Me-Not to Will, so that we can accelerate the badly needed research that will save his life.”
Ms Savage said all donations will provide vital funding for research, nursing services, advocacy and support.
“Prostate cancer is tough – but together we are stronger and can beat this disease.”
To buy a Forget-Me-Not and donate to prostate cancer research, awareness, and support, go to PCFA’s campaign website at www.valentinesday.org.au.
Through PCFA, men and families impacted by prostate cancer have access to a wide range of life-changing support services including 100 Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses and Telenurses, 130 Support Groups, peer-support programs, and tailored survivorship kits and resources.
For more information and to speak with a Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse call 1800 22 00 99, or visit www.pcfa.org.au.
ENDS
Media contact:
Laura McKoy | M. 0435 094 788
