Because 1 in 9 is 1 too many!
Because prostate cancer runs on both sides of my family, I started getting an annual PSA test when I was 39-years-old. My diagnosis came after a biopsy confirmed why my PSA doubled each year over 2-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 in November-2018.
Time seemingly stood still after hearing the news and 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 The End of 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 2-month after my diagnosis.
In April-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 The End of Prostate Cancer is a supporter of endurance events which is why I have chosen to race in support of Team ZERO in the Atlantic City IRONMAN in September-2019 which will occur only 9-months after my surgery. But my recovery goals don’t end there. My goal for 2020 is to complete 9 IRONMAN races. Why 9? Because about 1 man in 9 will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. If I can endure 9 IRONMAN races one year after my prostate cancer surgery, then guys can endure the 1 minute of discomfort of 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 2 boys can be the first generation of ZERO prostate cancer.
You can help! Join me by donating to ZERO The End of Prostate Cancer. Join me through your corporate sponsorships or donations. Join me as part of Team ZERO and race in 1 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.