If you’ve noticed a few more men with moustaches this November, it may be because they’re taking part in Movember.
Movember is a charity that raises money for men’s physical and mental health, with fundraisers and events across the world also spreading awareness.
A twenty-one year old man has raised £500 for Movember, in an effort to spread awareness and break down the stigma surrounding men speaking out about their health.
Callum Robinson said “I’ve seen countless people through social media that have earned good money for the cause and I wanted to do my bit. I saw the support that Movember does for not only men’s mental health but also physical health when it comes to the stigma behind it, and I wanted to be a key role model in something that changes the narrative.”
The support and friendship fostered over the Movember cause has been overwhelming for Callum. “It was something I wanted to earn a bit of money for, yeah two hundred and fifty quid was my target at the start of the month and we hit that within three days.
“Everyone’s been so supportive and yes it’s amazing, now I’ve hit five hundred quid, and Carlsberg Marstons will match exactly what I donate.”, with his company, Carlsberg matching his donations, his fundraising is making a very tangible difference.
But Callum has a personal reason for taking part in the charity movement this year. He is motivated by the loss of his friend, Harry Bennett, who died when they were sixteen from a late discovered brain tumour. “It was just very difficult for everyone and me at the time and I’ve seen it change a lot of my friends and family.” The HB09 Foundation appointed Callum as an ambassador to support the charity in 2021.
“For me, I see how high the suicide rates are for men, and I believe that with the right help and support, you can talk about it. There’s people in the world that don’t have a choice and don’t have as long a timeline as some men do and I think that if you know there are people out there that you can talk to, you should reach out. Harry didn't have a choice, he didn’t have a long enough timeline.”
The journey has been deeply personal, helping him reflect on his health and encouraging him to listen to his friends’ struggles more seriously.
As Movember is drawing to a close, it is important to remember that Callum’s mission to raise money proves that small actions can accumulate and add up to make a real positive difference. He reminds us it all starts with a conversation, and sometimes a little bit of extra facial hair.
“Just talk, man. Just talk more. And be kinder to yourself.”
(Written 30 Nov 2024, republished 20 Dec 2024)
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