Megan Bidencope

I’m taking on The Long Run

Hi there,

Throughout September, I’m participating in the 72 km Long Walk for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer. The money we raise supports vital research, treatment, and support services for men and their families — all working toward a future with ZERO deaths from prostate cancer.

My reason for walking comes from a moment that changed everything for us. One day, my husband suddenly had an extreme urgency to pee — something completely out of character. Like many men, he would have brushed it off and moved on. But something didn’t feel right, and I insisted he see my GP rather than ignoring it. I’m so glad we paid attention to that small change.

The GP referred him to a urologist, who wasn’t overly concerned because his PSA had always been normal, but ordered scans to be safe. Those scans revealed a lesion, and a biopsy confirmed moderately aggressive prostate cancer. Because we acted quickly, the cancer was found early enough for nerve sparing surgery, and he has been fortunate with his recovery. Modern robotic surgery has come a long way, and early detection gave him options that may not have been possible later.

My message is especially for partners: you play a crucial role in men’s health. Prostate cancer often gives no obvious warning signs. Men can feel perfectly well and still have cancer. Sometimes it’s the subtle changes — the things they dismiss — that we notice first.

Please encourage the men in your life not to ignore changes in urinary or sexual health, and not to assume it’s “just age.” Have the conversation. Ask about PSA testing. Help them understand their risk. Early detection truly matters.

If our story prompts even one partner to speak up, or one man to get checked, every step of this walk will be worth it. That’s why I’m doing The Long Walk. 💙

I’d love your support. Every dollar helps PCFA provide life changing research, care, and support for men and their families. 

You can make a donation on my page here:

 https://www.thelongrun.org.au/s/21020/25420

Thank you so much for your support!