Manitobans can now purchase a Manitoba Motorcycle Ride for Dad specialty licence plate, with each sale supporting the fight against prostate cancer. Released by Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) on Monday, the $70 licence plate is available at any Autopac agent—with $30 from each plate going to the Manitoba Prostate Cancer Support Group. “We’re really excited,” said Ed Johner, spokesperson for Manitoba Motorcycle Ride for Dad, who purchased his specialty plates during the first possible hour. “It’s just another outlet for people who support us to be able to support us. Aside from pledging riders or just making a straightforward donation, I think it would be pretty cool to have one of these on the back of your vehicle.” Established in 2009, the organization has raised over $5.7 million for the fight against prostate cancer in the province—raising over $600,000 alone during the annual ride in May. Johner said the funds will help provide education, awareness and support to those impacted by prostate cancer in Manitoba. “Physically, they may remove the disease from you, but mentally, it stays with you forever, and the support group does great work with men during their battle with prostate cancer and after,” he said. Johner, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2007, said early detection is key with treatment of the disease. “These [licences] are like little mini billboards that are going to be floating around all over the streets reminding men to go get checked for prostate cancer … It’s just another way for us to get our message across.” He added that the specialty plate is not just for motorcycles, but for other vehicles as well. According to MPI, the new plate will be the 15th plate available to Manitobans under the specialty license plate program, which has raised over $5.5 million to date for Manitoba-based charities. “It’s something that affects us all—men, families. It doesn’t matter,” said Johner. “Prostate cancer affects everyone.” -With files from CTV’s Scott Andersson
