Comedian Stevie D, is a prostate cancer survivor and self-described hillbilly hellraiser. When he was given the shocking diagnosis at 44, he knew he had to maintain a sense of humor to help him get through it. Stevie D shares advice and his men’s health tips.
1. What’s the best grooming advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t use cologne as after-shave. I heard that from Macaulay Culkin.
2. What’s your favorite part of visiting the barbershop?
When I was a kid, I went to a barbershop with my dad. The best part was getting the bubblegum afterwards. I hated getting my hair cut because I always wanted long rock and roll hair. It's hard to do a hair flip with a crew cut.
3. Who is your male role model? And what’s one important thing they’ve taught you?
Besides Burt Reynolds and his epic moustache, I love Elvis. I’m an Elvis fanatic. He was a hillbilly. He was different, but he wasn’t afraid to be different; he was doing what he wanted. He kept a sense of humor about himself, which is something I try to do. You can’t be afraid to be different and be yourself.
4. Can you remember a moment when your perception of men’s health changed?
My dad died at 40. Since then, in the back of my mind, I was like I have to always be healthy. I knew my family history, and knew I had to monitor my health. I started seriously getting into fitness around 22, and now I do it also because I have to keep up with my children and to keep my girlish figure.
5. What advice would give other men?
Enjoy life. Every day is a gift. I found out that no matter how fit you think you are, there is no guarantee. Seize the day, rock the mo!