Though it’s hard to believe, November is upon us. Daylights savings has started, Halloween has ended, and No-Shave November is beginning on men’s faces across the country.
If you’re not involved with the trend (i.e., if you’re part of the 50% of the population that does not possess facial hair), No-Shave November is a tradition in which men vow to go without shaving their beards for the month. The tradition is alive and well across the country, but many supporters do not know the history, or the charitable goals, behind this month-long celebration of beardness.
According to the No-Shave November official site, the event began in 2009, when Rebecca Hill and Bret Ringdahl brainstormed ways in which they could raise money to support cancer research, focusing on men’s cancers. They created a Facebook page on which people pledged to give up shaving and hair styling for the month of November, and donate the money they saved to cancer research organizations.
The event grew from under 50 participants during its first year to a worldwide campaign, and No-Shave November officially partnered with the American Cancer Society last year.
No-Shave November is geared towards those who are ready to let their beard grow grizzly and wild throughout the month. But for those wanting to present a more manicured appearance, November is also the time for meticulous beard growing and shaping.
November is also known as “Movember,” or mustache-November, a related event which began in Australia in 2003. During the event, men craft and shape their mustaches into fantastic shapes, while shaving off their beards totally.
The event raises awareness for prostate and testicular cancer, and also donates money to cancer research foundations. This year, the organization is extending its outreach to include men’s mental health and general health awareness.
While the events may be man-focused, women are also encouraged to participate. Movember dubs its female volunteers “Mo Sistas,” and states they are a major source of organization and donations. No-Shave November states that women can also participate, encouraging women to “(let) those legs get mangily, and skip that waxing appointment.”
There is a very serious issue behind all of the beardly fun. Prostate cancer will affect one in every seven men in their lifetime. Prostate cancer also accounts for 22% of men’s deaths from cancer. Testicular cancer is less common overall, but is the most common form of cancer in young men, ages 15-35.
Both of these cancers are deadly, but can be treated when caught early. Along with raising funds for research, both No-Shave November and Movember are dedicated to bringing awareness to these forms of cancer.
Men (and women) should stay in good health by eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. You should also be aware of your family’s health history: if there is a history of cancer, it might be wiser to get tested at an earlier age, or be vigilant of signs and symptoms.
Participants are invited to join the movements actively, at the No-Shave November or Movember websites. But don’t be afraid to participate even if you’re not interested in raising funds or donating. Simply uploading photos of your hair with a caption stating the importance of cancer awareness and research can go a long way.
The StuPub team wishes you luck on your hair-raising adventure!
Leave a Reply