STAFF WRITERS
AT age 82, Allan Cunningham is showing no signs of slowing down.
The Traralgon local is working well beyond retirement to support men and families in the Latrobe Valley who have suffered from prostate cancer.
Allan co-founded the Latrobe Valley Prostate Support Group in 2010, after several of his friends were diagnosed with the disease. Since then, he has gone on to champion one of the region’s largest fundraisers for men with prostate cancer, the Latrobe Valley Biggest Ever Blokes Barbecue lunch.
Over the years, Allan has supported hundreds of men and their loved ones, establishing the support group and dedicating thousands of hours to raising awareness of the disease.
On Wednesday, April 24 at the Morwell Club, that work was rewarded, when Allan received the prestigious Max Gardner Award for Distinguished Service from Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA).
Like so many unsung heroes, Allan took it all in his stride.
“We started the local group 14 years ago because too many men in our area were being diagnosed with prostate cancer and dying from the disease,” he said.
“We used to have some of the highest mortality rates from prostate cancer in the country, but over the years we have managed to reduce that statistic through public awareness, supporting the establishment of a local prostate cancer nurses, and fundraising for prostate cancer research projects.”
Notably, Allan’s advocacy catalysed research into reducing prostate cancer mortality rates in the Latrobe Valley. His efforts led to Dr Mahesh Iddawela investigating blood markers for aggressive prostate cancer treatments.
Allan’s tireless dedication and community impact highlight his invaluable role in prostate cancer support and research.
“Our group consists of men who have emerging prostate issues, or who have previously undergone treatment, or are still having treatment, and the fellowship of group members makes a very positive difference for local men,” he said.
The award was presented by the PCFA national director, Professor Tony Walker, with Allan’s esteemed group members in attendance.
“Over many years, Allan has dedicated countless hours of service to supporting men and families in the Latrobe Valley, ensuring that no man walks alone,” Professor Walker said.
“He has played a vital role in providing men and their families with information, comfort, and support, calling on his own personal experiences to make a difference in the lives of others.
“I speak for all Victorians when I convey my abiding gratitude to Allan for his profound contribution and determination to make a difference.”
Allan co-founded the Latrobe Valley Prostate Support Group with fellow local, Col Bermingham, and has been instrumental in building support for the Latrobe Biggest Ever Blokes Barbecue lunch over many years, securing high profile guest speakers such as Merv Hughes and Mick Malthouse.
PCFA Chief Executive, Anne Savage said each of the awardees was an inspiration to men and families affected by the disease.
“Over many years they have served as champions of prostate cancer awareness within their communities, ensuring that men and their partners do not have to walk the journey of prostate cancer alone,” she said.
“They have played a vital role in providing men and their families with information, comfort, and support, calling on their own personal experiences to make a difference in the lives of others.
“I speak for all those in our community when I convey my abiding gratitude to these gentlemen for the exceptional difference they have made to so many Australians impacted by prostate cancer, improving survivorship outcomes for all.
People can call 1800 22 00 99 or go to prostate.org.au to connect with the group.
