In July 2023, prostate cancer patient Jeffrey Drew joined the PHEN Survivor Network after he spoke with his fraternity brother and PHEN Survivor Network member Johnny Richardson Jr.
Jeffrey was able to have his prostate cancer diagnosed early because his father taught him the importance of early detection and going to the doctor with any health concerns.
He underwent surgery in April 2023 at the Moffit Cancer Center, which is based in Tampa, Florida. Jeffrey joined the PHEN Survivor Network due to the educational components he could gain from working with PHEN staff. Furthermore, Jeffrey is very keen on teaching other men about the importance of early prostate cancer detection and telling his story about his journey.
Along with spreading prostate cancer awareness, I want to dispel ‘macho myths’ and tendencies to avoid the doctor,” says Jeffrey. In addition, Jeffrey advocates for men to bring their spouses into doctors’ offices to have a family discussion and make medical decisions together.
According to Jeffrey, men diagnosed with prostate cancer may sometimes forget important questions to ask while their spouses and family members can help them keep track. When Jeffrey’s wife and daughter who is an RN were in the room, they were able to ask physicians the right questions.
He wishes to teach other men to advocate for themselves and recommends those at risk of prostate cancer get PSA blood tests taken semi-annually to detect the disease as early as possible. PHEN welcomes Jeffrey to its Survivor Network and looks forward to his assistance!
