Irwin Tollefson

It affects me daily

Friday 11th Apr 2025

I am riding for friends who have dealt with Men's health issues. 3 have dealt with prostate cancer 2 of them have survived and are living normal, everyday lives, but not without struggle. One of them had the cancer return and needed a second round of surgery, chemo and radiation. The third friend did not survive. He was diagnosed too late, and it had spread to other areas in his body. 

 

I myself, due to issues out of my control, struggle with PTSD brought on by childhood and workplace trauma. Most men do not deal with mental health issues appropriately, and I have had 3 friends die by suicide. All 3 were dealing with issues that they did not seek help for. They believed that, because they were men, they needed to deal with their mental health on their own and were unable to deal with their issues on their own. We all need to be more aware of the fact that all of us struggle with things and that we should not deal with them on our own.

I'm Riding for Men's Health in The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride

Thursday 3rd Apr 2025 On Sunday the 18th of May 2025, I'm riding in The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride with fellow men and women across the globe to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer and men's mental health on behalf of Movember. Men die on average 6 years earlier than women and for largely preventable reasons. The number of men that are suffering is growing, and we need to do something about that. So, before I press my tweed and polish my boots, I'm asking you to join me in raising funds and awareness for these causes by donating what you can for this meaningful cause and to help the men we love, live happier and healthier lives.