Bold for Blue Awards

Diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer 14 years ago, Darrell knew in his heart that he’d been called to serve and uplift others affected by the disease. As a clinical trial consumer reviewer, a prostate cancer research advocate, and a support group leader, he works tirelessly to bring hope to patients and their families. 

His involvement with the Prostate Cancer Research Program is helping bring life-saving research and treatments to advanced prostate cancer patients. Darrell understands that patients like him are running short on treatment options. Darrell’s passion is to continue the fight and to warrior on for increased prostate cancer research funding. As Darrell has shared, "Research is what’s keeping me alive and research is what’s giving me hope.”

Scott Freitag is currently under treatment for stage IV prostate cancer but he’s not letting that get in the way of cycling the perimeter of the United States. With his wife Katy following in their camper, they are traveling state-to-state, spreading awareness about prostate cancer and stressing the importance of early detection. They are taking every opportunity to meet with men and share the importance of testing. 

Their 11,000-mile, year-long journey reflects their dedication to making a difference in the lives of those impacted by prostate cancer. Their efforts are a testament to the power of advocacy and the impact that can be made in the fight to end this disease.

This award is sponsored by Lantheus.

Dr. John McGill, a leading urologist in rural Georgia, is a beacon of dedication and innovation in advancing health equity. He works tirelessly to ensure that anyone who is at high risk of prostate cancer receives information, is connected to resources, and has access to free testing, which is evident in his role as the Chair of the Community Health Fair initiative at R. Frank Jones Urological Society. 

The Community Health Fair Program has transcended geographical boundaries, ensuring that vital information and preventive care reach those most in need. Dr. McGill has championed a model that has improved community health and screened several hundred men in 2023, with plans to partner with ZERO and screen even more high-risk men. 

Marty Chakoian is a dedicated volunteer and experienced support group leader. Marty served as Board Chair of Us TOO and is now an active member of ZERO’s Board of Directors. 

His prostate cancer support group in Seattle meets twice each month; he is also a member of the NCI Council of Research Advocates and chairs the Pacific Northwest Prostate Cancer SPORE Patient Advocates Committee at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center.