By Myrlia Purcell on
Tennis great John McEnroe is joining the fight against cancer, becoming the latest ambassador for Stand Up To Cancer.
McEnroe, 50, has witnessed his father’s strength against the disease over the last five years. In an interview with CBS News, he says of his father, “He’s a tough guy. I thought he was indestructible, but things happen.”
The 7-time Grand Slam winner and Stand Up To Cancer are encouraging men to get tested for prostate cancer with a simple blood test starting at the age of 40. He tells people, “Be proactive, instead of reactive.”
In an interview with FOX News, he encourages wives to push their husbands to get tested, joking that men won’t even stop to ask directions.
1 in 6 men in the US will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.
“When my dad was diagnosed with prostate cancer, it was a big wake up call for me. I was really surprised by the prevalence of this disease,” said McEnroe… “I am hoping my story and involvement in this campaign may help a few more guys start managing their risk.”
Free screenings will be available across the US during Prostate Cancer Awareness Week, Sept. 20-26. These are organized through the Prostate Conditions Education Council. Colin Powell is a spokesperson for this organization.
“I personally have battled prostate cancer and won,” Powell states. “Early detection is the best weapon we have against this silent killer.”
For more information on prostate cancer and what you can do fight it, visit ProstateCancer.com and ProstateConditions.org.
Copyright © 2009 Look to the Stars
