The Climbers at 11,000 feet
Ken Malik, Brad Neal, Ralph Lake, and Jan Zlotnick
The Climbers at the Peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro
Ralph Lake, Ken Malik, Jan Zlotnick, and Brad Neal
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.