State highlights prostate cancer issue

BOSTON (WWLP) - Thursday was Prostate Awareness Day in Massachusetts, and two lawmakers representing Western Massachusetts took the opportunity to share their stories of survival.

Both Sen. Stephen Brewer (D-Barre) and Rep. Stephen Kulik (D-Worthington) are prostate cancer survivors. Together, they discussed the difficulty of prostate cancer and the importance of getting checked up. Senator Brewer said seeking medical surgery for his cancer was the scariest experience in his life, but because he sought treatment, he was able to make a full recovery.

A Springfield group was at the event to spread awareness to African-American men, who are 60% more likely to get prostate cancer and 250% more likely to die from it.

“Men have a hard time, especially men of color, going to the doctor. We usually have to be pushed to go to the doctor be it from our loved one, our wives, our significant others,” said Lamont Scott, a Men of Color Health Awareness (MOCHA) mentor.

“You know you want to be around for your family. You know and if you don't get it checked, as I say, if you don't check in, you'll certainly check out,” said Antonio Delesline, another MOCHA mentor.

MOCHA members want other Springfield men to take a pledge with them if you see them at your local YMCA. The pledge is to live a healthier life so that you may be there for your family and your community.