Getting Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Have you ever consider just talking to people? I wanted to get out of my comfort zone. I can talk about mental illness, pain, women, men, relationships, any topic that comes to mind, but what about talking in front of a room of men in nursing homes who could care less about prostate cancer? I was asked to do this, and I immediately freaked out. I was like; I’m not a man, how can they relate to me, what do I say, do I even know that much about prostate cancer?

How do I talk about prostate cancer?

How would I talk to men and women about this? Of course, I would have to use all my knowledge as a caregiver and all I have learned from ProstateCancer.net. We are talking about grown adults in assisted living who are already not happy with their life.

I don’t think you are ever too young or too old to educate anyone. Especially, if this is something that could impact their life one of these days. I get to speak to grown men who may have never approached or thought about prostate cancer.

Preparing for the first talk

I had to get permission from the nursing home first. They thought the topic was important and were very willing and able for me to come in for a talk. They had to do certain things to prepare, but it was up to the adults to show up.

Not only was it okay with the nursing home, but they asked me to go around to all the nursing homes in the area to discuss this subject. It is sad we have so many men who don’t care about prostate cancer.

People want to learn about prostate cancer

At my first meeting, I did not want to make my talk long and drawn out or too preachy. I did an outline and had handouts ready. I wanted everyone to know how important this disease is. I was not trying to traumatize anyone; just educate. I had 23 people in my first class; 18 men and 5 women. I really did not have to do a lot of talking; they asked a lot of questions; especially the men. I was so relieved.

I like this part of my support work. I get to stand up and be a positive voice in the community. It gives people the opportunity to calmly approach the situation and make their own decisions in their health.

Talking about screening

• Talk to your doctor about screening risks
• Get a prostate-specific antigen blood test (PSA)
• If you decide to be screened, consider a digital rectal exam
• Continue testing as often as your doctor recommends
• Age plays a factor, as you get older, your risk increases

Always get regular examinations but be familiar with your body. You should know if anything changes, such as irregular urination or burning. If you have a family history of this disease; such as father, brother, son get tested at an early age. You are also at an increased risk if you are African American; we don’t know why yet.

Always advocate for yourself

Medical experts are encouraging men in their 50’s to discuss the pros and cons of prostate cancer screening with your doctor. If you have a family history of this disease or a person of color, you can start this conversation earlier. If you have other risk factors, you can have a conversation with your doctor sooner than later.

I am a big advocate for educating yourself. Talk to your doctors; as many as possible until you understand what is going on. Do as much research as possible. The more you understand about prostate cancer and how it affects you, the easier it will be for you.

Preparing for my next talk

I’m happy to say that I was asked to come back to the same nursing home; they have more questions. I have a schedule for someone from the medical community to come with me. You don’t have to go at this alone. We are here for you at ProstateCancer.net.

Are you ready to come out of your comfort zone and just get out there and just talk? I know I am.