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Ken Malik, Executive
Director of the Prostate Awareness Foundation: I have been fortunate. I was diagnosed with
early stage PC and, with a strict diet, life-style changes and the use of
nutritional supplements, have recently been told after a second biopsy that I
no longer have malignancy. After 8
years of battling the disease, I feel cautiously triumphant. I was a
participant in the first Prostate Cancer Climb to Mt Aconcagua in the Argentine
Andes. We raised almost $250,000. I’m proud to have the opportunity to
participate in this year's Climb. We want to raise public awareness about:
early detection, taking proactive responsibility for one’s own health, and the
pros and cons of all the treatment options available to those diagnosed. I know
the Climb will inspire men and their families with a message that a rich and
rewarding life is possible after a cancer diagnosis. We need your help to
succeed. Jan Zlotnick, RN, Med, EdS,
California:
I found out I had prostate cancer at the ripe old age of 41. I have been
through surgery, radiation, and most recently the blockade of my hormones (ADT)
to stop the disease from progressing. I’m now 51 and have not suffered from PC
at all, only from the treatments. Boy, have I gotten an education. During this
time, I have married the love of my life and had a wonderful son. I have
learned I can lead a rich and rewarding life even though I have cancer. As a
nurse and educator, I created and teach a men’s health class at my local
college. I am now challenging myself to climb higher than I ever have; I want
to succeed at something that frightens me. I look forward to the Climb and
raising critical funding for research and education. Brad Neal, Texas: When I heard from a friend
about the Prostate Cancer Climb I knew I wanted to be on the team. Prostate
cancer has affected my best friend - my father. Diagnosed 15 years ago, he had
radiation, and then surgery. He is going strong as he approaches 80. My
involvement is a way of acknowledging my father’s courage. I have to admit I
have concerns about making the climb and the high altitude. However, I’m more
concerned about getting prostate cancer. I understand that this possibility is
much greater in men like myself with a family history of the disease. My
personal dream is that this epidemic will be eradicated long before the snows
melt from the mountaintop. Ralph Lake, Texas: It seems that no family
these days goes untouched by cancer. I was shocked to learn that my closest
uncle was recently diagnosed with PC. Even more so when a high school friend I
had not seen in years told me he was diagnosed 8 years ago at 50. As a recent
retiree, I don’t want to become another statistic. With my newfound awareness
about the disease, I am taking positive, proactive action to maximize my
health. Awareness and personal action are key elements to prevention, early
detection, and the early treatment that can save lives. I have been a contributor and advocate for
cancer research for most of my life. The Prostate Cancer Climb will give me a chance
to stand up and be counted. |
