Another Motion Source Movember in the books! For the month of November, our team participated in our third Movember; a time to grow mustaches in the name of the Movember Foundation. This year, we exceeded our team goal and raised $1,440, funds that will be used to tackle prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention. As we reflect on the past month, each Movember team member shared their motivation for participating and thoughts on the experience.

Jeff says:

In the last few years, I've had some male family members go through tough times in regards to their health, not to mention a close friend being treated for testicular cancer. While these serious health issues can make bystanders feel helpless, it's a comfort to know that growing a mustache can do so much.

Mitch says:

This year I decided to participate in Movember to help raise awareness for prostate cancer, as my grandpa is currently going through it, and to raise awareness for men’s mental health. That has been an issue close to me for a long time now. On a personal level, I’ve been very curious as to how long it would take for me to grow a respectable mustache. After this month, I’m still not sure on this. I thought I would have a nice Nick Offerman or a Wilford Brimley thing going on. Not the case. This couldn’t have come at a better time either because I had my 10 year high school reunion this month and had to get a new driver’s license photo taken.

Michelle says:

After two successful years of Movembers with the Motion Source team, I felt compelled to do so again this year. Supporting men’s health, particularly mental health and suicide prevention, is important to me. In the United States, 75% of suicides are men. That is a staggering statistic. I lost an important male figure in my life to suicide, so that especially hits close to home. As team captain (and the only Mo’ Sista), I once again wanted to stand by my team’s efforts this Movember and applaud the mustaches and funds they have grown.

Craig says:

I was on the fence about whether or not to participate in Movember this year. A mustache isn't really my style, and I have always been mystified as to how men can comfortably wear them: it inevitably pokes at your lips and the corners of your mouth! When I told the rest of the crew about my hesitation, I could see how enthusiastic everyone else was, which helped me to remember the purpose of all of this, as well as the fact that a month of discomfort was a minuscule sacrifice for such an important cause. I told Jeff that I'd make a bet with him, decided by the flip of a coin. If he won, I would commit 100%; if I won, I would still consider participating, but wouldn't be obligated to. As the quarter spun in the air I was about 85% certain that I would participate no matter the result. Coming to a rest, my decision was solidified: Jeff had won. Regardless, I tend to think I would have still sported the upper lip fur no matter the result!

Steve says:

Approaching November every year is a tad dreadful knowing that my co-workers and I will not be looking our best. In an industry where working with new people is a weekly occurrence, it can be a bit off-putting for clients when the crew arrives with matching mustaches. However, each and every year, our clients always seem happy that our team is united in our efforts to raise awareness of men’s health issues. Though we look ridiculous, I'm humbled to see the money we raise and hope that it makes some small difference in the challenges men face.

Sal says:

This was my inaugural year for Movember and I'm so glad I did it. Not only did we exceed our goal as a team, but I found out that I look exactly like my dad when he sported his 'stache. What inspired me most last month was the amount of people who reached out to donate. We usually think of social media as something that we need to take a break from, but it helped immensely in my fundraising efforts. If anyone is thinking about participating next year, I would say DO IT! It feels great to contribute to this amazing cause and, who knows, you may find out how ravishing you look with a mustache!

None of this would have been possible without the generous support of our donors. Thank you to each and every one of you! Together, we are helping change the face of men’s health.