Sept. 13, in observation of National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, Gift of Life and its medical partners provided PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood tests, primary care services and physician consultations for more than 130 medically underserved Southeast Texans at the Industrial Safety Training Council (ISTC) Conference Center in Beaumont.
The event also featured a special Prostate Cancer Awareness Award & Recognition Ceremony to express gratitude for prostate cancer program supporters and honor Southeast Texas Urology Associates with the 2022 Julie Rogers “Spirit of Love” Award for its unparalleled dedication to the organization’s prostate cancer initiatives and remarkable medical care. This prestigious award pays tribute to deserving community leaders for extraordinary efforts in the battle against cancer and was presented to the practice by Men’s Health and Prostate Cancer Honorary Chair Don Shaver.
“As someone currently contending with prostate cancer, I am alive today because I was screened,” Shaver said. “I encourage all men to get tested! For those without medical resources in our region, Gift of Life is a true lifesaver! It is an honor to endorse this meaningful community cause.”
Statistics demonstrate that men typically avoid seeking medical treatment – contributing to poorer health outcomes and a reduced life expectancy compared to their female counterparts. In 2022, Gift of Life expanded its men’s program to provide monthly, scheduled screenings for local “at-risk” men who have experienced heightened barriers to care accelerated by unmet post-pandemic needs.
“We applaud the many men who have taken advantage of Gift of Life screenings,” says John Fowler, M.D., and Santos Soberton, M.D., Internists at Beaumont Internal Medicine and Geriatric Associates, who volunteered at the event. “They are embarking on an important first step towards having a healthier life.”
Since April, screenings have been provided for nearly 400 clients, many navigated to follow-up care based on the test results.
“I am alive because of Gift of Life,” said prostate cancer client José Hernandez, who shared his heartfelt testimonial at the ceremony. “I didn’t have any insurance or any money. I didn’t have any family here. I wasn’t sure what to do. But then I found Gift of Life. They ensured I received vital medical services and throughout my recovery. Today, my prostate cancer is in remission.”
Since 2000, Gift of Life has made available more than 10,700 free prostate cancer screenings, helping extend the lives of 77 men diagnosed with prostate cancer and navigated through treatment.
In November, Gift of Life will “give thanks and blessings of good health” to Southeast Texas men through the Movember Foundation movement that heightens awareness of prostate cancer and other men’s health issues. The organization will participate in a city-wide Movember campaign to increase prostate cancer awareness while also hosting its primary care and prostate cancer screening event at the Orange Baptist Hospital. Additional activities will encourage men to grow their mustaches to spark conversation about men’s health and wellness while raising funds for Gift of Life’s lifesaving medical services and educational outreach.
“We are excited to participate in this innovative movement and provide Thanksgiving blessings for men in Orange who cannot afford insurance or high deductibles,” Gift of Life Executive Director Norma Sampson said. “Together, we can make a lifesaving difference!”
For more information or to determine free prostate cancer screening eligibility, contact Gift of Life at (409) 833-3663 or visit giftoflifebmt.org.
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