The 2009 Herald City 2 Surf is now open for registrations. To register online go to http://www.city2surf.com.au. Once registered, you will be prompted to create a fundraising page for the charity of your choice (PCFA, of course); simply follow the instructions.

Once you have registered PCFA will be in touch to tell you about running with our team and send you some goodies from our wonderful sponsors so you can take on the City 2 Surf in style.

If you have any questions about running the 2009 Sun Herald City 2 Surf for PCFA, please call the NSW Team (Events Co-Coordinator: Melissa Harris or NSW State Manager: Wendy Farrow) on 02 9438 7050. We would be happy to take your call.

Thank you for your support.

"My journey with Prostate Cancer started with a throw-away line at my GPs when I had a few minutes left of a consultation. I casually asked if there were any cancers I should be checked for? I was 42 at the time and my father had died of Prostate Cancer. So there was a history of Prostate Cancer in my family and I was at risk. My GP took a PSA test. The numbers came back elevated and I was referred to an Urologist. I underwent a biopsy and the diagnosis was very clear: "You have Prostate Cancer".

Unfortunately, I got this news the very same day my wife gave birth to our twin boys. So there I was with new life in one hand and a death sentence in the other. But I decided to do something about it.

I wanted to be there for my children’s 21st birthday. I spoke with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and received excellent information and most importantly, my wife and I were supported really well throughout the journey.

In 2007 I had a Radical Prostatectomy. Ironically, this was on Melbourne Cup day and I was lucky enough to score a tri-fecta: Today I am cured, dry and potent. I was lucky.

– and I am acutely aware that others have not been so lucky. But luck does not belong to me so now I am involved with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia as a Men’s Health Ambassador spreading awareness about the disease. I know that through my efforts other men have been diagnosed early enough to do something about their Prostate Cancer."

PCFA Men’s Health Ambassador

– Hayes Van Der Meer

This year, Hayes will be one of thousands of people coming together to participate in one of Australia’s most enjoyable events: Sydney’s 2009 Herald City 2 Surf, as part of the PCFA team.