Over 300 people took to Bournemouth seafront on Sunday at Bournemouth Hospital Charity’s ‘March for Men’ event to raise money for state-of-the-art prostate cancer diagnosis equipment.
Walking or running the 1km, 5km or 10km distances, men, women, and children joined charity patron Fiona Castle and enjoyed the beautiful sunshine while raising money and keeping fit.
The prostate template-biopsy equipment will reduce waiting times for patients at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital, and will improve the accuracy of diagnosing prostate cancer and reduce infection rates.
The equipment costs almost £130,000 and enables urologists to investigate the whole prostate gland giving a much more accurate diagnosis. Standard biopsies currently performed at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital do not always allow access to the whole of the prostate and previously template biopsies have only been available in Dorchester, meaning patients have to travel.
Consultant Urologist at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital, Mr Kevin Turner, took on the 10km distance. He said: “The weather was really kind to us and those who took part were really rewarded for using their Sunday to support men’s health.
“I really enjoyed the run and it was great to see so many people there.
“The equipment everyone was raising money for will have such a positive impact on patients.”
Bournemouth Hospital Charity events officer, Barry Wilson, said: “Well done to everyone who took part in the second March for Men. We had a lot of fantastic supporters who really helped to make the event a success.
“The deadline for returning sponsorship money is 24 April and we’re looking forward to getting everyone’s sponsorship money in so we can see how much we have raised. Fundraisers can submit their sponsorship online or by popping in or calling the charity office on 01202 704060.”
Bournemouth Hospital Charity aims to raise £2m each year to support the patient experience above and beyond what the NHS can provide. Donations to the charity provide the funding for much needed equipment and resources.
