One of most prolific and influential humans in my life was diagnosed with prostate cancer a few years back, all because it was suggested to him to take a PSA test at the time, since his insurance would cover it. This test was not something he was even considering at the time, especially since many doctors (including my own) tend to stay away from it because of things like false positives or overtreatments. On a whim (it's free, why not), he discovered he did, in fact, have prostate cancer, however it was so small (cue the doctors screaming from the back, "It's a waste of time and resources) he and his doctor mutually decided to just sit back and watch it over the next several years and when it came time, they would make further decisions. Fast forward to this past February 2024, the waiting was over and it was time to make those decisions.

After a very successful surgery, my dad now has completely undetectable levels of prostate cancer. It's all thanks to the "Free PSA Test" that was seen as superfluous and unnecessary. It probably saved his life as he was essentially asymptomatic up until they performed the surgery. If not for the vigilance and advanced screening, who knows how far along the cancer would have been by the time he started having symptoms.

Prostate cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers I feel like I hear about, along with skin cancer (both of which have significantly affected our family), and with my dad's diagnosis, we discovered dozens of other men in his various family and social circles who were also diagnosed with it. I am also so grateful to work for a company that pours so much into an organization like Movember, although we unfortunately lost an equally prolific man to the cancer prior to my joining the team. From what I know, Alan Knipe, our company's founder, was one the good ones and from his vision, our company has grown significantly and is now the global leader in what we do.

If you're a human with a prostate, get tested and get tested early. My dad is literally living proof it can save lives. Do it for you, do it for my dad and Alan, do it for everyone you love and who loves you. And if you're feeling even more motivated, consider donating to this amazing organization that supports research and funding for prostate and testicular cancer treatments and potential cures, but men's mental health and overall wellbeing.