A DETERMINED Violet Town woman is this week taking to task those who do not talk enough about prostate cancer. As part of Men’s Health Week (9-15 June), Leanne Russell-Jones is walking three kilometres per day until Sunday to reach her target of $1000 as part of the Walk For Him campaign, in honour of her husband Graham, who has prostate cancer. Leanne will not only welcome donations on her laps around the Violet Town walking track she will undertake from 3:30pm daily, but has a bit of chastising for those who don’t speak up. Leanne said awareness of the signs of the disease was as important to her as fund raising. “There are too many who don’t know about prostate cancer and many go through it but then don’t share information with others,” Leanne said. “There are so many men who don’t do anything. “That is my message - talk about it.” Graham Jones – she calls him ‘Jonesy’ – was diagnosed with prostate cancer in October last year after a blood test in May indicated high PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels, which are typically the first indication of the disease. Graham’s case was unique because according to US and UK research, prostate cancer usually spreads first to the bones and nearby lymph nodes; however, Graham’s spread to all of his lymph system first and not to his bones. Add to that a non-enlarged prostate and no typical symptoms, diagnosis was late in the journey. Leanne believes a lack of awareness due to men not sharing their stories because of the stigma associated with it, is to blame. “Those who go through it do not share their stories," she said. “They need to.” Donations can be made at www.walkforhim.org.au/fundraisers/leannerussell-jones/walk-for-him-2025 For free confidential telephone information and support, phone the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.
