Paddling to push prostate message
THERE was a gusty, cold wind blowing as Chris Carter headed out over the breakers at Kingscliff this morning on his paddle board.
With the aim to get to Yamba by Sunday, his epic journey is an effort to raise awareness about prostate cancer and give men a jab in the ribs to get a check up.
The 42-year-old from Pottsville has been through the cancer mill.
"You think it's an old man's disease and that's the danger," he said.
"I went to the doctor with a chest infection and asked for an overall check, including cancer.
"The doctor reassured me I was too young and said I had no worries.
"I insisted, wanting a clean bill of health. I got a prostate- specific antigen test which indicated all wasn't well.
"It was almost passed off as an infection, but a biopsy showed otherwise.
"That was the start of a huge emotional road through erectile dysfunction, incontinence and emotional trauma."
Mr Carter wants other men to heed his warnings.
"Don't do the blokey thing and pass things off," he said.
"Get regular checks.
"There's no second chance at life."
NEED TO KNOW
- If detected, early prostate cancer is treatable and curable
- Testing decreases the death rate by up to 44%
- Appointments only take between 20 to 30 minutes
- You can book by calling 1300 10 33 33
