‘For dad’ will be the motto motivating the Rosel family at the annual Run For Dad in Bendigo on Father’s Day.

The Run For Dad on September 3 at Bendigo Racecourse is sponsored by Moira Mac's and will raise awareness and funds for a new Bendigo Community Health Services men’s health clinic and the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.

Increasing awareness of prostate cancer and men’s health is important to the Melbourne-based Rosels but it’s the love and support for one family member that sits at the heart of their participation.

Ian Rosel has prostate cancer and is awaiting a second round of eight-week intense radiation therapy the family believes will rid him of the cancer once and for all.

Ian will travel from Melbourne to complete the Run For Dad with his wife, three sons, two daughters-in-law and two grand-daughters.

Register for the Run For Dad at www.bchs.com.au with the first 100 entries receiving a free event T-Shirt.

Sue Rosel said when her husband mentioned the Run For Dad as a passing comment the family couldn’t let the opportunity go.

The family has a strong fitness connection with son Stephen and daughter-in-law Rebecca the founders and coaches of recreational running squad Generation Run.

“We rallied the troops, booked accommodation and signed up for the event! Some of us will be running the 7.5 kilometres, others walking the 3.75 kilometres. We will all be doing it ‘for dad’,” Sue said.

“It’s a small gesture of our support, our love and our hope to Ian and all those touched by prostate cancer.”

Sue said Ian’s experiences had made the family keen to raise awareness of prostate cancer and the support services available.

“As a victim of this terrible disease, Ian has felt quite alone, un-supported and insignificant in relation to what he sees around him for his female breast cancer suffering counterparts,” Sue said.

“Whilst there is little doubt that there are fantastic foundations and services out there providing treatment and support to those going through prostate cancer, regardless, Ian has found it difficult to attain assistance and helpful information.”

The Run For Dad will be held from 10am on September 3.

Register at www.bchs.com.au with the first 100 entries receiving a free event T-Shirt.

All participants will receive a medal.

A free breakfast will be available on the day.