Know Your Numbers: Why I’m Sharing My Prostate Cancer Journey
Del Alcalde del Condado de Orange, Jerry L. Demings
Septiembre es el National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about one of the most common cancers affecting men. This year, the observance carries special meaning for me because earlier this year, I was diagnosed with Stage 1 prostate cancer.
Like many families who receive this kind of news, my family and I suddenly found ourselves facing difficult decisions and an uncertain road ahead. After talking with my doctors and learning about my treatment options, I chose to undergo surgery to remove my prostate. Today, I'm grateful for the outstanding medical care I received, the unwavering support of my family and the opportunity to continue serving the community I love.
One lesson from this experience stands above all others: early detection matters.
De acuerdo con la American Cancer Society, one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. For African American men, the risk is even greater - one in four will receive a diagnosis. Those numbers are sobering, but they also remind us why education, awareness and routine screenings are so important.
One of the greatest challenges with prostate cancer is that it often develops without noticeable symptoms until it has progressed. That's why I encourage every man to talk with his doctor, understand his personal risk factors and know when screening is appropriate.
If your screening shows everything is normal, that's wonderful. If it identifies a problem, early detection gives you and your medical team more treatment options and greatly improves the chances of a successful outcome.
Throughout my career in public service, I've learned that facing challenges begins with confronting them directly. Cancer was no different. I chose to trust my medical team, focus on healing and move forward with faith and optimism.
This journey also reminded me how important family, friends and caregivers are during difficult times. My wife, Val, stood beside me every step of the way, and I'll always be grateful for her love and support, as well as the compassion shown by the many healthcare professionals who cared for me.
I’m sharing my story for one simple reason: I hope it encourages you to take charge of your own health. If you’re a man, talk with your doctor about your personal risk factors and whether prostate cancer screening is right for you. And if you’re a spouse, child, sibling or friend, encourage the men in your life to have that conversation.
Don't wait. Know your numbers. Talk with your doctor. Get screened.
Early detection saved my life, and it could save yours.
Eligible residents can learn more about the Clínica Médica del Condado de Orange y la Red de Acceso a Cuidados Primarios (PCAN), which connects uninsured and underinsured residents with affordable primary care services.