Mo 3.0 – A Year of New Growth

In the past 29 days, I’ve gone from dashing young Steven McQueen to Movember rock star – which means I look more like a skinny Teddy Roosevelt than a young McQueen.

As my third Movember comes to a close, I’m excited to say this year’s mo looks awesome. Unlike the badass biker Fu Manchu I rocked in 2009 and 2010, this year’s stache is a combination of delicately crafted chaos mixed with roguish perfection.In addition to the monumental masculinity associated with my mo, this year is different because when I first moved to London, one of my roommates just found out he had testicular cancer. Caught earlier on, this is a completely treatable disease but even when it’s caught at the initial stage, it’s an incredibly difficult process.

I don’t know what the female equivalent is, but when a guy watches another guy get hit in the lower regions, we respond in three phases. The initial external response is to say “Oooooooo.” This is followed up with either a chuckle or something along the lines “It sucks to be that guy.” While it looks light-hearted on the outside, internally, we ALL cringe slightly because we know the pain that gentleman is experiencing.

After watching someone put testicular cancer in its place and learning more about the decisions they have to make, I start to get squeamish just thinking about the effects. It’s to these gentlemen that I tip my hat.

How to get involved

So to make life simple, and recognize you for your awesome support, I’ve developed a PBS-telethon-style sponsorship system outlining the different levels of support. Inspired by the United Kingdom’s rich heritage and affection for noble rankings, the following information should guide you through the process.

Note: If you already supported a Mo Bro or Mo Sista, leave a note in the comments section at the bottom saying what category you earned.

The International Supreme Council of Awesomeness and High Fives - $75+ / £75+

Your generosity is proof you come from blue blood. The nobility that came before you rests soundly knowing you bear their name. If British Field Marshal Horatio Herbert Kitchener, 1st Earl Kitchener – aka Lord Kitchener of Khartoum – were alive today, there’s no doubt he would invite you and your spouse to inspect both the British armed forces and his massive moustache. (Benefits: One week of daily affirmations of your awesomeness –via Twitter or Facebook, an individual phone call or email within 24 hours of your donation, personalized thank you video at the conclusion of Movember, and autographed photo of me and my mo in a recognizable London location.)

The International High Society of All Things Awesome - $50 / £50

In April 2011, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge exchanged vows front of the world. In November 2011, your actions reminded William and Kate to support others even more so than they do now. Sure, they might support other UK charities, but they’re definitely thinking about your actions to support Movember. (Benefits: Individual phone call or email within 24 hours of your donation, personalized thank you video at the conclusion of Movember, and digital photo of me and my mo in a recognizable London location.)

The Order of Awesome Activities – $25 / £25

Awesome activities should be part of everyone’s life. Membership in the Order of Awesome Activities is a badge of honor and proof that you know how to have fun. Together, you and many others are building the core of what’s going to kick cancer in the balls. (Benefits: Personalized thank you video at the conclusion of Movember, and digital photo of me and my mo in a recognizable London location.)

The Guild of Awesome – $10 / £10

There is no shame in being part of the Guild of Awesome. You are the fresh upper lip stubble that every man experiences during Movember. Sure it might not look like much, but it’s the corner stone of a good lip sweater and the beginning of a masterpiece. In the Guild of Awesome, you will find joy and comfort in the form of a personalized photo. My piercing blue eyes and blond moustache will transport you to a place, many can only dream of.  (Benefit: Digital photo of me and my mo in a recognizable London location.)

Whether you live in the US of A or the UK, joining one of the previously mentioned levels of awesomeness is easy to do.

To my colonial brothers and sisters, you can show cancer who’s the boss by clicking here: http://mobro.co/JoePiehl

Or if you’re a fan of the Queen’s cash, you can donate your British sterling here: http://mobro.co/JoePiehlUK

As always, thanks for your support of PeelingOut, Movember and yours truly.

Keep calm and grow on.

-Joe

p.s. Gents – For more information on prostate cancer, click here.