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Check, mate - Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

  • Writer: Mikael Wagner
    Mikael Wagner
  • Aug 30
  • 5 min read
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"Check, mate." It's a phrase from chess, signalling the end of the game. But when it comes to Prostate Cancer, those two little words don't have to mean defeat. In fact, they should mean the beginning of a conversation that saves a life. Mine included. September has been declared Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, a time to start sharing and providing information to everyone that you care about, male or female.


I was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2023. Like many men, I never imagined it would happen to me. In all honesty, I had no idea what prostate cancer was or the meaning of the word prostate. I felt healthy. I was busy living my life, working long hours and traveling all over the world facilitating marketing workshops and trainings at conferences. I was convinced that I was invincible. Lessons in life taught me that cancer doesn't care how busy you are, how young you feel, or how uncomfortable the topic makes you. It cares about the opportunity, and if you ignore the warning signs or skip routine checkups, it will take that opportunity to grab your attention, making you focus on the issue. I am grateful, thanks to several committed physicians, that my cancer was caught in time. Not every man is so lucky.


As an African American man, I am certain that I would be dead by now due to the lack of care and concern for any person of colour seeking any treatment in what I once believed was my country. Several years ago, I moved to Melbourne, Australia, with my partner, where the healthcare system opened their arms to me and helped me to get the diagnosis, care, and treatment needed to survive a life-threatening disease.


Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed disease in Australian men. Each year, around 26,000 men are diagnosed, and tragically, more than 3,500 Australian men die because of it. That's nearly ten men every single day. As grim as it may sound, there is hope. When detected early, the five-year survival rate is over 95%. The key is early testing, and early testing starts with a conversation.


So why is it so hard for men to discuss something that could literally save their lives? Pride, fear, embarrassment, pick your poison. Many of us grew up with an "I will be alright" attitude or the belief that real men tough it out. We have all been in that space. We are more comfortable talking about baseball, footy scores, race car drivers, or tennis matches, rather than our own health. And then there is the stigma around the exam itself, which often stops men before they even learn what's involved. In all honesty, I was horrified, even though I had no idea what would happen next. Here's the truth, a basic check begins with a simple blood test called a Prostate-Specific Antigen or a PSA test. If your PSA levels are elevated, further tests may follow. Is it fun? No. Is it worth it? Absolutely. A few minutes of discomfort is nothing compared to what's at stake. A simple blood test could save your life, it saved mine.


We can't do this alone. The role of families, friends, and colleagues are essential. On my own journey, several people were there to guide, support, and just be there for me. My partner of 25+ years was my champ because he shared many of his stories with me and encouraged me survive and thrive. Many years ago, he was diagnosed with laryngeal cancer that involves the voice box. A laryngectomy, a surgical procedure was conducted to remove part or all the larynx, the area of the throat that contains your vocal cords. We provided the same care to each other, but just during different times. There were women in my life who were saviours, encouraging me, comforting me, advising me how to survive many of the dreadful side effects from receiving female hormone injections, and holding me accountable. If you love or care about a man, your father, your partner, your brother, or friend – ask if he has been checked for prostate cancer. It's an opportunity to get the conversation started in a safe space. Start the discussion, even if it feels awkward. Silence is deadly; talking about it with others can save lives.


My diagnosis brought me to my knees. There were days I felt scared and uncertain about wanting to live another day. What kept me going was my support system and the small, deliberate choices I made every day, such as, walking around my community, laughter with friends near or far, exercising to stay fit, journaling my feelings, and surrounding myself with people who reminded me I was more than my cancer. Whenever I would become sad, I would always remember the words of a true friend's mother. She would say, "Stop it, now slap yourself." For some reason I could visualise her smiling face and it would make me laugh. No one needs to fight this battle alone. It surprised me how many people cared, some were complete strangers but shared their support. Hope is not naive, it's necessary.


The more I learn about prostate cancer it helps me to share information with so many people of all ages, regardless if they are male or female. Prostate cancer risk increases with age, but it's not just an old man's disease as I once thought. If you are over 50, or over 40 with a family history of cancer, talk to your doctor about a screening. Don't wait for symptoms to arise, prostate cancer often develops silently.


What can we do to turn awareness into action? September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, filled with blue ribbons and fundraising walks and talks. Awareness is only the first step, what matters is the action we take. Talk to your doctor and schedule the test. It's essential to share your story with as many people as possible. Encourage your friends, mates, and contacts to do the same. The more we normalise these conversations, the fewer lives we lose. Key activities and events in Australia include:


  • The Long Run - A challenge to run, walk, or ride 72km for the cause.

  • Turning Australia Blue - Where major landmarks are lit up in blue to raise awareness.

  • Other Activities - There are also online, and in-person events hosted by the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA), including informational presentations and fundraising drives. 


If you need support or information in Australia, reach out to:


I am alive today because I refused to stay silent. I am alive because I got checked. Prostate cancer doesn't have to be a death sentence, but it does require courage, not the kind measured in muscles or bravado, but in honesty and self-care. So, here is my challenge to you: If you are a man reading this, make the appointment to see your doctor. If you love a man, start the conversation regardless how painful it may be. It may feel awkward, but awkwardness has never killed anyone, but silence has. Check, mate. It's your move. Don't wait until it's too late.

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