Yes, Corky.

Rumor has it, some family/friend/local in a sleepy South Dakota town called the infant version of my father-in-law a real “Corker”. Corky was soon to follow, and it stuck. I bet many of his own friends would take a second to ponder his traditional first name.

For those who know Richard, please take a second to tell him happy birthday in this post. I’m looking forward to a fine celebration this week, sir. Especially since I’m growing this ‘stache in the name of men’s health, and you’re a cancer survivor working his way to all clear.

This month I wove a nose ribbon in the name of Movember. It’s a movement to raise awareness for prostate and testicular cancers, and it supports the Prostate Cancer Foundation and LIVESTRONG. The latter has been a charity I’ve supported numerous times in the past, because I believe they exist to help.

Walking about with a multi-colored lip sweater hasn’t been an easy feat. Strangers tend to double take. I’ve noticed workmates sort-of stare and almost coil in fear of this freakish hair creation. A hockey teammate blurted out “dude, is that a sweet ‘stache?”

You betcha.

My new nose neighbor has been effective. It’s a conversation starter and a laugh device all in one. People who know me now know that one in six men will develop prostate cancer. That’s a staggering fact.

They also find out that people can battle, like my father-in-law Corky.
And my friend Jeff Andrews.
And Aaron Bell’s dad.
Same with Tiffany Cannon’s old man.

Stacey and I started thinking about all the people we know who have (and continue to battle) prostate cancer, and the list is vast.

It pays to be in the know, so I encourage every male reading this to get a physical. Ask your Doc about PSA levels and your health. Also ask him about your options. If you know me, and you’ve seen my mustache, you likely heard me say that you don’t need to be prodded by Dr Longfinger any more. How cool is that?

Please consider donating to my team, Geeks With Balls. We’ll take your pocket change, your lunch money, a round at the ole ballgame – whatever you can give will be amazing. I’ll make it up to you the next time we meet, friend.

You can also go direct to my page and donate. Either way, you are the coolest.

Thanks in advance. Please high five a man in your life, he deserves it.

And Happy Birthday, Corky!