W Bro Stan Marut has been appointed as CHAPS Ambassador for the Province of Middlesex. This role, which is not a masonic appointment, is an initiative by the Charity to engage with the membership through the auspices of the Provincial Grand Almoner, W. Bro Ivan Chu and by promoting Prostate cancer screening. More recently it has been reported in the media that Sir Chris Hoy, the famous Olympic Gold Medallist, has developed the disease. Indeed, just a few days ago the whole issue of Prostate Cancer was highlighted on the BBC National television news. It is becoming a serious issue. You might say it always has been.
CHAPS first started testing in the Province in 2022 and have already saved masonic lives. In 2025 it is planned to continue this programme and there will be many who participated in the first round who will be invited back. Newer Brethren will fall within the age demographic and will be invited to their first participation in this event. Equally, there will be some who have been referred for an annual return to continue monitoring of PSA levels. This is vitally important and should not be missed. It is planned to hold the screening at both Harrow and Twickenham on dates to be confirmed in July 2025. Once funding has been secured and dates set then registration can commence.
It should be noted that the PSA testing initiative is a key part of the Physical Well Being Pillar which is managed by W. Bro Paresh Pandya who works as part of the Provincial Almoner’s team who can offer advice on the services offered by the MCF on a number of issues including financial support and health related matters. He will also engage with W. Bro Stan on the implementation of testing and coordinating volunteers to assist on the relevant dates to ensure the smooth running of the event.
Although Stan recently stepped back from his editor’s role for Mercury, he still wants to be part of the important work the Province is engaged in for its membership. This role of Ambassador will allow him to continue to contribute and ensure the PSA screening in the Province is a success.
