The Fuzzy Muzzies

By: Kirsti Ridsdale

Nov. 14, 2012

The month of November is dedicated to men growing out their mustaches to raise awareness of prostate cancer, the most common cancer in men.

The Fuzzy Muzzies group started in 2009 by some friends talking about growing their mustaches for fun. After doing some research they discovered people often do it to make a difference.

Caleb Denomme has been a member of the Fuzzy Muzzies since the group started. The foundation hits close to home for him because his uncle died of prostate cancer when he was young.

“Three years ago when the Fuzzy Muzzies started it just made sense for me to join,” said Denomme. “My uncle died when I was very young and prostate cancer has always been an issue that’s touched my family.”

The group started off with 15 members and has now grown to 19. The group of friends, mainly from Essex County, are growing their stashes for Prostate Cancer Canada.

President of the group, Mike Dupuis, has been a member since day one and said their goal is to continue raising money.

“First year we raised $3,868, second year $8,744. My goal is to break past 10 grand this year,” said Dupuis.

“The proceeds go to Prostate Cancer Canada which funds awareness  and education, global action plan and Canadian male health network,” said Dupuis.

The Fuzzy Muzzies sell t-shirts, bracelets and other merchandise, as well as hosting events which include car washes, benefit dinners and their first pub-crawl this year.

Carly Mayhew has been attending most of the events since the formed.

“A lof of my friends are involved in the group so it’s a social outing to support a cause,” said Mayhew. “It’s awesome to see everyone in a small town get together to raise money and it’s amazing how supportive people are.”

With hep of the community backing and supporting the group, it motivates them to raise more money each year.

 

CUTLINE: Back row, left to right: Brandon McKeen, Scott Van Hende, Nathan Puchnatyj, Ray Mailloux, Matt Mailloux, Kory Glasier, Gord St. Denis and NevenWiebenga. Front right to left: Be Phalavong, Mike Dupuis, Josh Mailloux, Caleb Denomme, Noah McFadden and Kenny Labadie make up the Fuzzy Muzzies group to raise awareness of prostate cancer. (PHOTO BY: Kirsti Ridsdale)