From Isolation to Inspiration

I was diagnosed with prostate cancer before the age of 50. Where I live, there are no local support groups or resources focused on serving prostate cancer patients, let alone any for patients my age. My wife and I felt utterly alone. In the process of looking for help and support, I found ZERO. 

When registration opened for the 2024 ZERO Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C., my wife and I knew we had to go. Little did I know that attending the Summit would turn out to be one of the most significant events on my journey with prostate cancer.

There are 3.3 million men in America living with this disease, and nearly 300,000 new cases are diagnosed annually. At the Summit, we had the opportunity of a lifetime to be a part of something larger than ourselves—a memory I'll never forget. 

On "Hill Day," over 100 attendees went to Capitol Hill as advocates, meeting with our elected officials in Congress. I had the opportunity to share my prostate cancer story, in my own words, and it formatively shaped my idea of advocacy and health. Those meetings were chances to educate our members of Congress on what specific legislation and resources are necessary to help provide more research, early detection testing, outreach programs, and more. 

As their constituents, we are the voice, and our voice must be loud and must be heard.

The day we spent on Capitol Hill helped transform my diagnosis from a burden to the catalyst for a bigger purpose and mission.

After affirming my purpose, I realized some part of me still felt incomplete. At the Summit, I found what I had been missing: community. To be surrounded by a group of amazing souls, unified on a mission of bringing awareness, education, and the crucial resources for a disease that often remains unspoken, was uplifting and therapeutic. From the staff to fellow patients, survivors, caretakers, widows, and loved ones- the Summit brought together an incredible community impacted by prostate cancer. There is no greater group of people to be able to interact and build friendships with. We laughed, cried, and shared our battles. In a world where prostate cancer is often shrouded in silence, we found solace and strength in each other. After attending the Summit, I am no longer alone. 

The Summit inspired me to become a bigger advocate for prostate cancer and men's health. I don't want others to face the isolation and uncertainty that I experienced. As the second leading cause of cancer death in men, the need for more research, funding, and measures to stem the tide of increasing diagnoses and deaths is essential. It was absolutely inspiring to be part of this group of dedicated people, some of whom have been on this mission for years and this was only one of numerous Summits. As someone diagnosed just 18 months prior, this was my first time. After this experience, I can confidently say it will not be my last. 

Advocacy isn't a choice; it's a responsibility. 

As we honor Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, I urge all men to prioritize their health and get screened for prostate cancer. Don't wait until it's too late. And if you or someone you know is facing prostate cancer, know that you are not alone. Reach out, seek support, and find your community. It can make all the difference in your journey.

Be Loud. Be Bold. Be Blue!