On an unseasonably warm fall morning, hundreds of people gathered together to raise awareness for prostate cancer. ZERO, an organization that helps support those fighting prostate cancer, hosted a 5k or 1-mile run/walk in Shamong, a rural town in South Jersey, at the beautiful Valenzano winery.
Many volunteers helped run the event by providing assistance in the parking lot, assigning bibs, and giving out free Dunkin’ Donuts. Some booths gave out resources for people fighting cancer, and there was even one selling running gear such as sneakers and phone holders.
Starting at 8:30 am, Steve Newsom, a prostate cancer survivor, shared his story with the crowd. He stated how every fighter and survivor has a special connection that makes them all a family.
PSA is the prostate-specific antigen in the blood. If PSA levels are higher than four ng/ml, the risk for prostate cancer increases.
Shortly after, a woman led a yoga class to wake up the participants, and to release good energy before the race.
The first race to set off was the kids’ dash. Around 10-20 kids rushed through a row of grapevines to meet their parents at the end. A volunteer said he worked this event because of all the men in America affected by prostate cancer. They explained that their favorite part of setting up was working with an interactive community and coming together with people who have been affected by prostate cancer.
Alongside all of the booths were signs with educational facts about this type of cancer. Some of the facts stated by ZERO included how “prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among American men,” and “every 17 minutes another American man dies from prostate cancer.”
As the runners and walkers started to trickle back into view, volunteers set-up a stand giving away water and snacks to the racers. Around three to four volunteers cheered the runners on until they reached the end of the finish line.
There was a wide range of racers who participated in the event including teenagers, children, parents, grandparents, and most importantly, survivors. Everyone was so supportive of each other and the atmosphere was full of sympathy and kindness.
One man who participated in the race had battled prostate cancer. He has attended this event many times, and this year he brought his whole family with him.
Racers enjoyed the wonderful weather and everyone was in high spirits.
Later on, ZERO held an awards ceremony which wrapped up the event.
This day was filled with remembrance of those who lost their battle to prostate cancer, along with hope for those who are currently fighting. The race empowered people from different generations, backgrounds, and cultures. As was mentioned at the race, early detection can combat prostate cancer in the primary stages if given treatment options and resources quickly.