15 years a Moustache - From a cool look to a great cause!

Despite its beauty, life presents us with significant challenges. As I walked through life, I witnessed many men battling severe health issues, including cancer.

Two years ago, this reality hit particularly hard when I lost my father to esophageal cancer. Watching a strong and charismatic soul fade away in just six months was heart-wrenching and taught me the vital lesson of cherishing the presence of loved ones while we still have them.

But cancer isn't the only silent killer. There's another pervasive threat that affects people of all ages and backgrounds: Depression!

Sadly and shockingly, I've also lost younger friends to depression and mental health struggles, individuals I never imagined would face such daunting challenges.

Men are incredible beings, yet many of us carry a boyish spirit. We love to be silly, loud, and playful, but deeper issues often lurk beneath that laughter.

I dedicate time to checking in with my colleagues, asking how they're really doing. I don’t wait for “Are you OK?” day. That should be every day. We need to be proactive in reaching out to our colleagues and checking in on their well-being.

Consider the toughest-looking men in your workplace; some may be silently suffering and too proud to show pain. There’s a false belief that “men never cry”, an incorrect sentiment that still echoes in the 21st century.

Some mask their struggles with humour, reminding me of an old saying from my childhood:

The one who cries has one issue, but the one who always laughs has too many!

How it all started for me!

My journey with this cause began fifteen years ago when I felt a bit lazy, so I decided to grow a moustache for work.

“Are you doing it for Movember?” Anthony asked me. “Sorry, what’s that?” I replied, baffled. “Your moustache! I thought you were participating in Movember!". As he realised my confusion, he told me about the cause.

The first years of Movember felt like a fun and cool phase. Coming from the Middle East, I had the advantage of growing a demoralising moustache admired by many who donated to the cause.

What started as a minor effort to maintain an itchy moustache quickly turned into something meaningful. My colleagues showered me with encouragement, saying things like, “Good on ya, Mate! Great cause!”

The more involved I became, the more I learned about men’s health issues, such as prostate cancer and testicular cancer, and the importance of mental health awareness.

Conversations with colleagues who had lost friends or family members to these issues opened my eyes to the reality many face.

Interestingly, the more I became aware of these challenges, the more I discovered and could support those in need. A simple, heartfelt “How are you doing?” can work wonders.

Here I am, participating for the 15th year! Time flies!

If you haven’t yet supported this incredible cause and would like to, consider supporting me or any of the MoBros and MoSistas dedicated to helping fathers, brothers, husbands, partners, and sons.

Your contribution can make a difference. If you're interested, please donate via my Movember page: