Quinten Oustrup Laureijs

Riding Together: Supporting Men’s Mental Health and Prostate Cancer Research

Saturday 13th Apr 2024

Every year in across the globe, a chorus of motorcycle engines cuts through the silence, marking not just a rally of bikes, but a mobilization against two significant challenges in men's health: mental health struggles and prostate cancer. This year, as I join the Gentlemen's Ride, I ride not just for the thrill of the open road but for a cause deeply personal and pressing.

Mental health and prostate cancer are twin spectres that loom large over men's health, yet they often suffer from underfunding and lack of awareness. My personal journey intertwines with these issues deeply, having lost friends to the despair of mental health battles and carrying a family history of prostate cancer. These experiences drive me to advocate for better support, research, and understanding.

Mental health, often shrouded in silence among men, needs our voice and our courage to break the stigma. We know that mental health issues do not discriminate; they can affect anyone regardless of their background or lifestyle. Yet, societal norms about masculinity often prevent men from seeking help or even discussing their feelings. Initiatives like the Gentlemen's Ride give us a platform to change these perceptions and encourage men to talk openly and support each other. Every conversation we start, every story we share, chips away at the barriers built by stigma.

Prostate cancer is another leading health issue for men, affecting millions worldwide. With my own family history, I understand the fears and uncertainties that accompany a diagnosis. It's a condition that can be managed and treated if caught early, which is why awareness and research funding are crucial. We need better screening methods, more effective treatments, and, ultimately, a cure. By participating in the Gentlemen's Ride, we highlight the importance of regular check-ups and medical attention, promoting proactive health management among men.

This event isn't just a ride; it's a lifeline. It's about community and showing up for each other. We ride to remind every man that they are not alone, whether they are facing mental health challenges or fighting prostate cancer. Each kilometre covered and every dollar raised brings us closer to better outcomes for men's health. The Gentlemen’s Ride unites us in a shared mission to safeguard the health and well-being of men around the globe.

I invite you to support our ride in Auckland. Whether you sponsor a rider, share our message, or contribute a small donation, your involvement makes a profound difference. Each donation, no matter the size, is a show of support, a beacon of hope for those struggling in silence. It’s a step toward a future where men do not suffer in silence but have the support and resources they need to maintain their health and dignity.

Join us as we throttle up for this noble cause. Let’s make noise for those who suffer in silence. Let’s ride for our fathers, brothers, sons, and friends. Together, we can make a significant impact.

For more information on how to participate in the Gentlemen’s Ride, please visit [https://www.gentlemansride.com]. To sponsor me, visit [https://gfolk.me/quinten] Together, let's ride toward a healthier future for all men.

Together, we ride stronger.

I'm Riding for Men's Health in The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride

Thursday 4th Apr 2024 On Sunday the 19th of May 2024, I'm riding in The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride with fellow men and women across the globe to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer and men's mental health on behalf of Movember. Men die on average 6 years earlier than women and for largely preventable reasons. The number of men that are suffering is growing, and we need to do something about that. So, before I press my tweed and polish my boots, I'm asking you to join me in raising funds and awareness for these causes by donating what you can for this meaningful cause and to help the men we love, live happier and healthier lives.