From African Adventures to Kilimanjaro: My Journey with Prostate Cancer

Although I lived and worked in South Africa three separate times for over 7 years, I never seriously thought of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Yet here I am, embarking on the ZERO Peaks Challenge in September 2025 - a trek to the summit that resonates deeply with my personal battle against prostate cancer.

The Silent Intruder

Prostate cancer is often called a silent man's disease, striking without warning. In April 2022, I became one of the one-in-eight men diagnosed with this formidable opponent. My world shifted when I received the news that I had prostate cancer. The diagnosis unleashed a flood of emotions - anxiety, worry, and a fear of the unknown. Like many men, I knew very little about prostate cancer and the lack of knowledge adds to the fear. The silence surrounding this disease is deafening, as men often keep our health struggles private. But I'm breaking my silence now.

Facing the Challenge

After extensive discussions with my medical team, I have chosen to pursue a course of "active surveillance". This approach allows my doctors to monitor my cancer closely while deferring treatment options for now. It's a path filled with uncertainty, but one I'm following this path with hope and determination.

Why Kilimanjaro?

The ZERO Peaks Challenge struck a chord within me. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro symbolizes the uphill battle men face with prostate cancer. Each step towards the 19,341 ft summit represents hope, determination, and our collective commitment to conquering this disease.

The Impact of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer affects more than just our bodies. It challenges our sense of identity, our relationships, managing side effects from treatment, and our outlook on life. But there's hope. Advances in treatment have dramatically improved survival rates with reduced side effects. More than 3.3 million men in the United States who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer are still alive today. With your support, we can push these numbers even higher.

Please Join Me on This Journey

I've set an ambitious goal of raising $15,000 for ZERO Prostate Cancer which is an A-rated charity dedicated to ending prostate cancer. Thanks to our generous corporate sponsor Tolmar,  every dollar you donate goes directly to ZERO Prostate Cancer. Tolmar is covering all the expedition costs, ensuring your entire donation goes to this special cause. Your support will fuel groundbreaking research, provide vital patient and family support services, public education, early detection, and bring us one step closer to a world without prostate cancer. Together, we can turn this personal challenge into a force for positive change. 

As I train to conquer Kilimanjaro, I ask you to be part of this life-changing adventure. Your donation, no matter the size, is a step towards hope for countless men and their families. Let's reach new heights in the fight against prostate cancer – please join me on this trek to the summit by donating to ZERO Cancer!

#ZEROPeaksChallenge #EndProstateCancer #KilimanjaroForACause"