Oct. 1 is the date for the next 1st Tuesday Fundraiser at the Mex Pub, an event to raise awareness and funds for the Prostate Cancer Canada Network - Comox Valley.
There are two local performers sharing the stage for this event. Opening with hosts Judy and Bruce Wing will be Al Pasanen, known through his musical tributes to Johnny Cash as the Comox Valley's Man in Black, and a prostate cancer survivor. Following will be a set by local singer/songwriter Randy Standish who is currently receiving treatment himself. Violinist Blaine Dunaway will also contribute to the musical evening, which starts at 7:30.
Pasanen is known for his Johnny Cash tribute concerts at various local venues, including VI Musicfest. Al has been involved in the local music scene since retiring from the air force. Originally from northern Ontario, he joined the RCAF after high school and served as a navigator in maritime command on both coasts before retiring in the valley.
After experiencing considerable downtime in recent years because of medical issues including prostate cancer, Al is happy to be operational again and part of this fundraiser.
Standish is a local performer who reacquainted himself with the guitar at age 49, when he began playing with local musicians, attending the Comox Valley Songwriters Circle and performing at local open mics and 888 Wing.
Randy's music has been aired on CHLY Radio in Nanaimo, and he shares his love of music with the passion of a true balladeer. Since being diagnosed with prostate cancer, Randy has undergone surgery and is receiving the treatments necessary to regain his health.
Performing music is something he loves to do, and even more so when it provides an opportunity to express gratitude for the support that he has received.
Prostate cancer is said to affect one in seven Canadian males and is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in males. In spite of this, education about the disease is still a challenge.
While rectal exams that screen for symptoms of the disease are covered by MSP, a less invasive detection by blood test, known as the PSA test, is not covered by MSP in BC unless there is a family history of the disease. Men over 40 are encouraged to monitor their PSA numbers as early detection offers the best chance of overcoming the disease.
The Prostate Cancer Canada Network has support groups from coast to coast, including the Comox Valley. This group provides peer support, education, and outreach programs for men who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
1st Tuesday Fundraisers are a monthly concert series sponsored by the Mex Pub that pair local performers with their favourite charities. For details, visit http://facebook.com/1stTuesdayFundraisers.
— 1st Tuesday Fundraisers