Penn State Health and Mid Penn Bank have concluded the 10th year of their No Shave November campaign by raising a record $355,000 for prostate and urologic health. The initiative, which began in 2016, has grown each year to support research and treatment for prostate and urological cancers at Penn State Health.
Participants from both organizations grew facial hair throughout November as part of a fundraising competition aimed at increasing awareness about men’s health issues. Dr. Jay Raman, professor and chair of the Department of Urology at Penn State Health, led the “Raman Noodles” team to raise $182,357. Rory Ritrievi, CEO of Mid Penn Bank, led the “MPB Execs” team with $120,732 raised. Their efforts were central to achieving this year’s fundraising milestone.
“Rory and Mid Penn Bank have been unbelievable partners over the past decade,” said Raman. “Their team, along with the rest of our community partners, have helped to save lives and made a true difference in the health and well-being of our patients here at Penn State Health.”
The funds will be used to support research by physician-scientists in the Department of Urology. This includes work on cancer care for older adults, reducing disparities among minority populations, and expanding genetic testing for personalized treatment plans.
In addition to supporting research initiatives, proceeds from the campaign enable free prostate cancer screenings in the community. The Department of Urology was able to double its number of free screenings offered over the past year due to these efforts. Funding also supports hiring three fellows for research and patient programs as well as strengthening patient support systems and care collaboration across central Pennsylvania.
“For 10 years, Mid Penn Bank and Penn State Health have joined forces during the month of November to raise funds for prostate cancer research to help fight this formidable disease that affects one in eight men,” said Ritrievi. “We are proud of our partnership and its contributions to the groundbreaking research being performed by Dr. Raman and his incredible team of physicians.”
As No Shave November moves into its second decade, organizers say their partnership continues to benefit local patients through ongoing awareness campaigns and expanded services.
