A report by W. Bro Stan Marut PPrJGD SLGR – CHAPS AMBASSADOR
In a slight twist to the Dracula story, Van Helsing the vampire hunter, was out of his depth, but hopefully not in blood. One hundred and ninety-one Middlesex brethren attended the PSA testing at Harrow Masonic Centre on Friday July 4th. This was an extremely important initiative as this “letting of blood” would help identify those who might be risk of developing prostate cancer which gives no warning until it is, perhaps, too late. The importance of PSA testing cannot be underestimated. Within a short time, results will be available and any member of the Province who might fall into the testing danger zone will either be referred to come back in twelve months for an updated test or will be advised to make an urgent GP appointment for further analysis, possible MRI scan and treatment. By utilising the CHAPS PSA testing programme in the Province, there are a number of brethren whose lives have undoubtedly been saved, and their testimony has been published in Mercury.
Regrettably there were some who had booked their testing slot but were unable to attend. It is hoped that their circumstances which did not permit them to have the test are not serious. The PSA testing was undertaken by CHAPS and generously supported financially by the Masonic Province of Middlesex Charitable Trust to whom a grateful thanks is extended.
A thanks also to those brethren who helped the CHAPS team on the day: Rohit Patel, Paresh Pandaya, Pash Bharania and Kirit Patel.
Incidentally, in the reference above to Van Helsing, you may know that he is a character in Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Stoker himself was a freemason and was initiated into the Buckingham and Chandos Lodge No. 1150 in February 1883 and remained a member for about six years, according to records.
Further PSA testing by CHAPS will take place on Thursday 17th July at TDMC.
