Content article
Brantford city councilor Greg Martin’s “Grow a Mo to Save a Bro” campaign has reached new heights.
Content article
A photo of Martin and his mustache appeared on billboards overlooking Yonge-Dundas Square in downtown Toronto and the Burrard Street Bridge in Vancouver, BC The photo was taken by his wife, Liz, and shows Martin, a retired Toronto fire department captain, in his firefighter’s uniform.
“It was pretty cool to see them,” said Martin, who had photos of the billboards sent to him.
“We got the one from Vancouver first and we sent a message to our son, Kevin, who lives there to make sure he had a chance to check it out.”
The billboard display featured the 10 winners of the Great Canadian Mo Challenge, a nationwide search for the best mustaches and supporters of Movember. The annual event involves the growing of mustaches during the month of November to raise awareness of men’s health issues, such as prostate cancer.
Martin, 61, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2016. He underwent hormone therapy, chemotherapy and radiation treatment at the Juravinski Cancer Center in Hamilton. His cancer is in remission.
Following his diagnosis, Martin wanted to raise $ 2,000 for Movember.
After easily surpassing that goal, he raised the target to $ 4,000, which he exceeded this year.
Over the years, Martin has raised more than $ 23,000 for Movember.
“I really want to thank all of the people who have donated to my campaign,” he said. “I’m grateful for the support.”
Martin has also spoken publicly about his cancer battle.
“It’s the kind of thing that can sneak up on you,” he said of prostate cancer. “That’s why it’s important to get checked.
“Early detection is your best hope for a positive outcome.”
Martin is in his second stint on city council. He first served from 2000 to 2010. He was re-elected in 2014 and again in 2018.
twitter.com/EXPVBall