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 abroad in Asia.
As I continue to navigate my own treatment and recovery, I’m setting out to thru-hike the 540-kilometer Lycian Way in southern Türkiye, one of the world’s oldest trading routes. Our mission is to raise awareness about men’s cancer and the importance of early detection, while helping expand access to low-cost cancer screening in rural communities.
This journey is more than a hike. Cancer changes how you understand time, distance, and 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 after cancer.
What began as a big personal challenge announced for Movember 2025, The Lycian Way Challenge has evolved into a focused mission to fund men’s rural screening pilots. With the support of our Trail Partners, Friends of the Hike, and donors 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.
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 shouldn’t determine whether 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 rebuilding my life after cancer returned. Facing cancer twice changes the way you see time and what matters most. 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.
The Lycian Way Challenge was announced during Movember 2025, and our supporters have contributed $1,255 to Movember’s work, helping put immediate funding behind men’s health programs before we even hit the trail. It’s a cause I’ve cared deeply about for many years, and one I’m proud to continue supporting alongside our focus on rural cancer screening.
Words From Our Supporters
Jessica, USA
We're so happy to support Jason. As a good friend since his first battle with cancer during College of Charleston, we're inspired by his courage and heart.
Toàn, Saigon
Keep up the great work! Can't wait to grab a beer together once you're back in Vietnam.
Collin, Australia
An amazing challenge raising awareness for a noble cause. Well done on this exceptional initiative Jason - happy to support!
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.
Lycian Way Distance
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Time on the Trail
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Global Supporters
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Fundraising Goal
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