As a Scuba Professional I'm Diving Into Movember To Help Save Lives.

Last year my goal was to spend 100 consecutive minutes underwater on one tank of air. I managed 103 minutes.

This year, on November 2, 2023 I have upped the anti! I have worked on my buoyancy control and breathing techniques, and I am attempting 120 consecutive minutes underwater on one tank of air. 

The questions you are probably asking yourself is WHY!  Why would I spend, or try to spend 2 hours underwater? (without taking a pee I might add)  Well because...

Men's Health is in Crisis in Canada and Around the World

Men’s health is in crisis in Canada and around the world. Men are dying on average 4.5 years earlier than women and for largely preventable reasons.

A growing number of men – around 10.8M globally – are facing life with a prostate cancer diagnosis. Globally, testicular cancer is the most common cancer among young men.

Across the world, one man dies by suicide every minute of every day, with males accounting for 69% of all suicides.

Our fathers, partners, brothers and friends are facing a health crisis, yet it’s rarely talked about. Men are dying too young. We can’t afford to stay silent.

It is crucial to raise awareness about men's health issues and encourage open discussions to address this crisis. By breaking the silence and promoting preventative measures, early detection, and timely treatment, we can work towards improving men's health outcomes.

Some key areas that require attention include prostate cancer and testicular cancer. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men globally, and its impact on individuals and families is significant. Encouraging regular screenings and educating men about the symptoms and risk factors can help with early detection and improved survival rates.

Listen to Bob's Story - It's Impactful!

Prostate Cancer is not the only issue

Testicular cancer, although less common, primarily affects younger men and, if identified early, has a high cure rate. Educating young men about self-examinations and seeking medical advice for any abnormalities can play a crucial role in preventing unnecessary suffering or death.

The alarming rate of suicide among men is also a significant concern. It is essential to break the stigma around mental health and encourage men to seek help when needed. Support systems, mental health resources, and accessible healthcare services are critical in combating this crisis.

Addressing men's health issues requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves promoting healthy lifestyle choices, encouraging physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, and managing stress effectively. Additionally, healthcare systems need to prioritize men's health concerns and provide accessible and comprehensive healthcare services.

It is up to individuals, communities, governments, and healthcare organizations to take action and prioritize men's health. Together, we can change the narrative, improve outcomes, and ensure that men live longer, healthier lives.

As a Canadian PADI Scuba Professional I am working on doing my part. I choose to do a Scuba Challenge because scuba diving is something I love, and my hope is that is stands out and helps to shine a light on Men's health issues. 

Movember Scuba Challenge

My Movember donations link: https://ca.movember.com/mospace/2279944


Larry Wedgewood
Larry Wedgewood

Larry is a PADI Course Director and Master Instructor With thousands of ocean dives to his credit. Larry has owned his own PADI dive shop in Phuket Thailand and has taught in cold, temperate, and tropical waters. Larry's dive career started in Victoria British Columbia and has spanned 2 continents and more than 8 countries.