Alongside moustaches, Movember encourages people to take on challenges to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. Since 2003, the Movember Foundation has raised over $1 billion, helping fund life-changing programs and encouraging men to look after their individual health and each other.
Jason's Lycian Way Challenge for men's health
About The Lycian Way Challenge
Hi there. My name is Jason Cronen. I’ve faced cancer twice now, first as a college student in 2004, and again in April 2024, after several years living and working in Asia, far from home.
As I continue living with cancer and navigating my own treatment, I’m setting out to hike across the 540-kilometer Lycian Way in southern Türkiye, one of the world’s oldest trading routes. My goal is to raise awareness about men’s cancer, champion early detection, and help fund low-cost screening in rural communities.
This journey is more than a hike. Cancer changes how you understand time, distance, and your own strength. It changes what it means to keep moving forward when life is interrupted. Walking the same paths people have traveled for centuries, one step at a time, brings that perspective into focus. Every step honors those rebuilding their lives during and after cancer.
What began as a big personal challenge announced for Movember 2025, The Lycian Way Challenge has evolved into a focused mission to deliver cancer screening access to those who need it most. With the help of our Supporters, Trail Partners, and Friends of the Hike from around the world, I’d be grateful to have you beside me on this path.
An ancient path, a modern challenge, and a hike driven by purpose and community.
WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO:
Why I’m Hiking the Lycian Way
The Lycian Way Challenge is my way of showing what someone living with cancer can accomplish, without pretending it’s easy. It’s about moving forward instead of being defined by what was lost.
Where a man lives should not determine whether or not he can get screened for cancer. Beginning in 2027, we’ll help men in rural communities access screening they might otherwise go without, taking care of the transportation, paperwork, and scheduling that can stand in the way.
A Mission Beyond the Trail
I created The Lycian Way Challenge while trying to rebuild my life. Facing cancer twice has brought fear and uncertainty, but also a desire to make my days count. We are bringing together supporters, partners, and donors around the world to help more men access life-saving cancer screening.
Endurance in Action
Cancer doesn't pause your life and hand it back neatly. There is no clean restart. You simply keep moving through the uncertainty. My thru-hike reflects that reality, demanding resilience, patience, and the willingness to keep putting one foot in front of the other, even when the path ahead isn't clear.
Men's Health Matters
Beyond helping men reach care, we're making men's health information easier to access. Our Trail Markers, translated into 15 languages, share essential facts about men's cancers and encourage guys to get screened. It's a simple way to reach people wherever they are and remind them that early detection matters.
Why Movember Matters To Me
Movember is a global men’s health movement held each November, best known for the simple act of growing a moustache. The moustache is meant to be noticed. It sparks questions, starts conversations, and makes it easier to talk about men’s health in everyday life.
When I announced The Lycian Way Challenge during Movember 2025, my friends and early supporters contributed over $1,200 to Movember’s annual campaign while the vision for my hike was still taking shape. Movember is a cause I’ve cared deeply about for many years, and I’m proud to continue supporting their work, alongside our dedicated efforts to expand rural cancer screening.
Words From Our Supporters
Collin, Philippines
An amazing challenge raising awareness for a noble cause. Well done on this exceptional initiative Jason - happy to support!
Toàn, Saigon
Keep up the great work! Can't wait to grab a beer together once you're back in Vietnam.
Gigi, Chile
When you told us about your hike earlier this year, it inspired us to start hiking back home in Chile. Come visit us someday and we'll be thinking of you.
Robert, Vancouver
I’ve watched your strength, resilience, and character grow over the years, Jason, and it’s a pleasure to back you in this mission. Well done, young man.
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