Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is over ~ but is it?

September is prostate cancer awareness month, but for me, I am in prostate cancer awareness era! I believe that the onus of telling others about this disease, how to be screened, and lending advice and support is on us ~ and does not end. Through blogs and groups like this one, I feel an obligation to continue to spread the word. For what good is it to have learned as much about this disease and keep it to myself? I challenge all of us to do the same.

One thing I have learned as I "celebrate" my 2nd anniversary of a PSA near 20, is that men have not stepped up to publicize their afflictions like the ladies have with breast cancer, yet this disease is more common. But I have noticed, that while we don't bring it up in discussion often, once it is then the discussions seem to open us up. For me it's not a problem. Be embarrassed? Why? ED? So what. I will stay open and informed, and if I have to, do the informing.

Here is what I will continue to do:
Blog ~ My story might not be the most exciting, but it is what it is.
Share ~ "What is it you would like to know?" is a great way to communicate once someone knows what I deal with daily.
Mentor ~ I am not a doctor, and that's why my experience can be valuable. Sorry Docs! You do a great job finding and treating the disease, we patients are better equipped to talk about the experience.
Care ~ If it is only another patient one will talk to, I will continue to make myself available and I want to help.
Inform ~ Advocacy is one way, The wrist band stays on. (for over a year now). Knowing the facts about this disease will help others understand, too.

Am I doing enough? Are you?

....I'm with ya' Tony....nothing to be embarressed about. Like I said before, none of us stood in line and asked for this...I'm talking, telling...I still cannot believe so many guys are so ignorant concerning their prostate, PSA, etc etc.....I continue to wear my bracelet and jump at the chance to share my story, your story, so many others on this site....I feel we have to do this and I will continue....