2020: The Year of IRONMAN

Prostate cancer runs on both sides of my family so I started getting an annual PSA test at the age of 39. My diagnosis came after a biopsy confirmed why my PSA doubled each year over two years. I had mentally prepared myself for an eventual prostate cancer diagnosis when most guys learn they have it - in their 60’s. But all my mental preparedness was shattered when I got my prostate cancer diagnosis at the age of 41 late last year.

Time seemingly stood still after hearing the news while I endured a stream of doctors and tests to rule out other (potentially higher priority) suspect things that turned up in my image studies. This is when I discovered ZERO Prostate Cancer, where I learned about my cancer, treatment options, and found my post-treatment recovery motivation. Ultimately, I decided a radical prostatectomy was my best long-term option and I had the procedure performed two months after my diagnosis.

In April of 2019, my first follow-up PSA test was ZERO … and ZERO is a wonderful thing! I still have some difficulties from the surgery, but I am back doing the things I love - one of which is triathlon. Fortunately, ZERO Prostate Cancer is a supporter of endurance events which is why I have chosen to race in support of Team ZERO in IRONMAN 70.3 Atlantic City this September, which will occur only nine months after my surgery. But my recovery goals don’t end there. 

My goal for 2020 is to complete nine IRONMAN races. Why nine? Because about one man in nine will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. If I can endure nine IRONMAN races one year after my prostate cancer surgery, then guys can endure the one minute of discomfort for a prostate exam.

My goal is to make 2020 the year for prostate cancer awareness so we can make significant strides in research and treatment so my two boys can be the first generation of ZERO prostate cancer.

You can help! Join me by donating to ZERO Prostate Cancer. Join me through your corporate sponsorships or donations. Join me as part of Team ZERO and race in one or all of my target IRONMAN races. Or, join me by simply getting yourself, or motivating your loved ones to get screened for prostate cancer.