Chris Bidencope

I’m taking on The Long Run

Hi there,

I’ve committed to conquering 72 kilometres this September to raise funds for the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCFA) of Australia Long Run/Walk and to raise awareness about prostate cancer. The money raised supports vital research and services for men and their families. Their aiming for ZERO deaths from Prostate Cancer in the future.

Like many men, I never thought much about my prostate. My annual PSA tests were always normal, and I felt perfectly fine. Then one day, out of nowhere, I had an extreme urgency to pee. I was lucky my wife was with me and she recognised this was out of character and insisted I see her GP and not just brush it off.

That GP referred me to a urologist, who wasn’t overly concerned because my PSA was normal, but ordered scans to be safe. Those scans revealed a lesion, and a biopsy later confirmed moderately aggressive prostate cancer. Thanks to my wife’s insistence, the cancer was found early enough for nerve‑sparing surgery to be possible, and I’ve been fortunate with my recovery. Modern robotic surgery has come a long way, and the side effects are far less severe than they once were.

The message I want men and their partners to hear is simple: prostate cancer often gives no obvious warning signs. You can feel completely well and still have cancer. Don’t ignore subtle changes in urinary or sexual health, and don’t assume it’s “just age.” Talk to your doctor. Ask about PSA testing. Know your risk.

Early detection makes a real difference.

If my story encourages even one man to get checked or start that conversation, every step of this walk will be worth it.

Don’t ignore the signs — and even if there are no signs, don’t assume you’re in the clear. Get checked.

That’s why I’m doing The Long Run/Walk. 💙

I’d love you to support me on this challenge and make a donation to PCFA. Every dollar will support men and their families impacted by prostate cancer and motivate me to reach my goal.

You can make a donation on my page here: https://www.thelongrun.org.au/fundraisers/chrisbidencope

Thank you so much for your support.

Chris