PlaceMakers chief executive John Beveridge has presented a giant cheque for $70,000 to the Prostate Cancer Foundation — the sum the company raised for the Blue September appeal — at PlaceMakers Mt Wellington recently.
Mr Beveridge says the company is proud of all its staff. “We had 100% participation from every PlaceMakers store throughout New Zealand. It was an inspiring effort and we hope to do even better next year.”
Prostate Cancer Foundation president Barry Young says the foundation is immensely grateful for the generous contribution which will help fight against a disease that affects one in 10 men in New Zealand.
“This donation helps save lives, it’s as simple as that,” Mr Young says. “This disease can be prevented, and Blue September is not just about raising money — it’s about raising awareness in the community.
“More than 50% of the calls we receive are from women, who want to save the men in their lives.”
Mr Young also acknowledged Peter Leitch, aka The Mad Butcher, as a Blue September ambassador who worked tirelessly for the cause.
“I didn’t recognise Peter without blue paint all over his face,” Mr Young says.
Also in attendance at the presentation was TV3 news presenter Hamish McKay, who helped out during the appeal at PlaceMakers Whangaparaoa by shaving the heads of four lucky PlaceMakers staff members.
Every year 600 men in New Zealand die from prostate cancer and another 2500 are diagnosed with the disease.
