On behalf of Te Are Manu Veterinary Clinic, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to the incredible success of this year’s Movember campaign.

Your collective efforts raised over $5000 to support our mission of providing essential veterinary care across Rarotonga and the outer Cook Islands. We are deeply grateful.

Movember is about raising awareness of critical men’s health issues – prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. This campaign not only raised funds but also created space for real conversations and connection in the community. We feel honoured to be the chosen recipient of such a meaningful initiative.

To Akairo Construction, thank you for organising and leading the charge. Your coordination and commitment were central to making everything happen. And to Meri-Ana Ellison, your behind-the-scenes support ensured each element of the campaign came together smoothly.

A huge thank you to the tattoo artists – Raniera Ellison, Hinano Wearing, Tonez from Threeflowers Tattoo, and Luther Berg from Next Tattoo682. Your time, talent, and generosity brought people together in a unique way, sparking dialogue and creating lasting memories.

Thank you to Ben Raela for the standout graphics and design work, which helped communicate the message and advertise the events so clearly. And to Triathlon Cook Islands and The Edgewater Resort, thank you for your generous donations – your support helped push the campaign beyond its goal.

We’re also grateful to Rejuvenate for offering wellness through sauna and ice bath sessions, and to Victoria Dearlove for running a Broga session that supported both physical and mental health.

One of the most powerful moments of the campaign was the Kai Kai and Kōrero evening. Thank you to Wallace Aroita, Luther Berg, and Akairo Construction for sharing your stories, personal journeys, and encouragement with honesty and strength. These conversations matter, and your voices made an impact. Thank you also to Coastal Kitchen for the beautiful setup, kai, and service that created a welcoming and thoughtful space for such an important evening.

From the tattoo sessions and wellness activities to the Mo competition, every part of this campaign reflected the heart of the community and the importance of looking after one another.

To every single person who donated, took part, or helped behind the scenes –thank you. Your support means more than words can say. The funds raised will go directly toward improving veterinary care on our islands, and your advocacy for men’s health will continue to ripple through the community.

• Dr Rose Hasegawa, medical director Te Are Manu Vet Clinic