Two Central Coast brothers are getting into gear for a major fundraiser to be held on January 15 to support the work of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA).
Logan Grattan, 19, and his brother Ronan Grattan, 17, are inviting 4X4 enthusiasts to join them for a day of driving, food and fun in support of the cause.
The brothers were inspired to give back after their uncle, Mike Berton, passed away from advanced prostate cancer last year at the age of 53.
“We want to honour Uncle Mike and start a conversation about men’s health in the hope it saves even one family from going through what our family has,” Logan said.
“Considering each of the guys involved in the event will have a male figure in their life, this conversation and awareness could potentially save a life.”
Ronan said Mike had loved four-wheel-driving so the event was a no-brainer.
“Through 4X4 we’ve found a community of people who would never drive past someone that needed a hand without stopping to help,” he said.
“This is what this fundraiser is all about – helping out where we can.
“We couldn’t have done this without the help and support of our Aunty Jen, Mike’s wife, who has helped us get this off the ground.”
Jen Berton, who also lives locally, said she couldn’t be prouder of her nephews.
“Mike was a fit, healthy and active man,” she said.
“He had no family history of prostate cancer, and it was never on the radar.
“But after being tested at 51 they found a high PSA level (with further investigations showing) an aggressive form of prostate cancer.
“Twenty-two months later he passed away at just 53 – leaving behind his family and friends.
“I don’t want any other family to go through what we have so I am proud of Logan and Ronan for thinking up a way to raise awareness of prostate cancer.
“I know that their Uncle Mike would be so proud of them.”
PCFA CEO Anne Savage commended the brothers for their commitment to helping locals impacted by prostate cancer.
“Logan and Ronan are an inspiration to us all – taking up the challenge to make a difference in their local community and raise vital funds for the cause,” Savage said.
“Their support will help us fund new research and support services to ensure that every man diagnosed with prostate cancer has the best chance of successfully treating this disease.
“Every 30 minutes one of our fathers or sons will hear the news that he has prostate cancer.
“Alarmingly, it remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian men.
“Across the Central Coast alone over 3,400 men are living with prostate cancer, with an additional 300 men newly diagnosed each year.
“Together, with the help of community champions, we can continue to strive for a future free from prostate cancer.”
The event on January 15 will take place from10am to 3pm at Watagans National Park.
Drivers are asked to meet at Pines Picnic Area at 10am (entry through Martinsville Rd then onto Watagans Forrest Road, Onley).
Those interested in attending can RSVP via Facebook.
Donations can be made at pcfa.org.au/fundraisers/jenberton.
For prostate cancer information and support, call PCFA on 1800 22 00 99.
Terry Collins