Friday night saw the coming together of Prostate Cymru supporters, to witness the unveiling of a specially produced piece of commemorative artwork, marking the charity’s 20th Birthday.
The creation, which was revealed at National Museum Wales Cardiff – was designed by Welsh artist Nathan Wyburn to celebrate the charity’s 20-year story, raise awareness and to reinforce the message that prostate cancer is not an “old man’s disease.”
Wyburn, who is a Prostate Cymru Ambassador, carefully created the piece using hundreds of photos sent in by those who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, those working on the frontline to improve services for men in Wales, fundraisers and those who have lost loved ones to the disease.
“This particular piece of work was inspired by a number of vital messages concerning men’s health,” explained Wyburn
“The portrait incorporates three different male faces, each representing a different generation. Whilst the photos used reflect the charity’s 20 year story, the image as a whole reinforces the message that this isn’t an old man’s disease and that those of all ages need to be aware of symptoms and their risk.
I didn’t realise that if you have a father or Grandfather that has been diagnosed with prostate cancer your personal risk increases from 1 in 8 to 1 in 3. That’s a worrying jump, so it was important that the artwork visually conveyed this arguably lifesaving fact.
Speaking at the event Prostate Cymru CEO Tina Tew said,
“We are delighted with the artwork that Nathan has produced, not only is it visually eye-catching, but it really makes you stop and think.
When we began talking about our 20th Birthday, we knew that we wanted to do something that incorporates all the amazing supporter stories from the last two decades, the images Nathan used to create the piece is a nod to all those stories.”
The meaning behind it is spot on, we need to change the stereotype about prostate cancer being “an old man disease.” From the age of 50, men need to go to their GP and get tested, earlier if there is a family history.
We regularly speak to medical professionals who see first-hand, young men in their early 50s, even late 40s being diagnosed. Thinking prostate cancer is something you don’t have to worry about until your later years could cost you.”
During the evening, the charity also talked about future plans including a new outreach programme, where a mobile vehicle, manned by specialist cancer nurses, will be on hand to provide support and advice. The charity is also keen to open the conversation with high-risk groups including Afro-Caribbean communities in which the risk of developing prostate cancer rises significantly to one in four men.
Prostate Cymru’s Birthday celebration will continue further into May, with a number of Welsh landmarks being lit up around the country, including castles and gardens. Keep an eye out on the charity’s social media channels for the latest Birthday images.