You Are Not Alone
The American Society of Clinical Oncology reports that more
than 180,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year in the
United States, including over 1,000 right here in West Michigan
(according to the State Cancer Profiles website). They say "numbers
don't lie," so this means you are not as alone as you might feel. And if
that is how you're feeling, we understand - we've been there.
The Survivors Association
A West Michigan prostate cancer support group-is here for you and
other men who are going through many of the same steps you are in your
recovery from this disease. We know firsthand that it isn't easy, but
the good news is that many of us are still here, standing strong as we
continue to live our lives.
Even better news is the fact you are probably not going to die from prostate cancer anytime soon. In fact, the American Cancer Society reports that the 5-year survival rate is almost 100%, the 10-year survival rate is 98%, and the 15-year survival rate is 95% (when including all stages of prostate cancer).
We want you to be one of those men who look cancer in the eye and
say, "You're not taking me." There are choices you can (and should) make
to do exactly that and lead a long, full life. We are here to help you
find the strength to stand up to the disease and the knowledge of those
choices you need to make.
No matter where you are in your journey from prostate cancer, we invite you to join us. More than that, we ask you to consider helping fellow men who are going through the same experiences—both good and bad—you’ve had and continue to have. The Survivors Association is both us supporting you and you supporting us.
There is strength in numbers, especially when it comes to finding the strength and shared wisdom of men who know firsthand the struggles that come from this medical condition. When you come to our support group, you can hear our stories and learn what we’ve found works for us—and what doesn’t.
You will find there are many men who understand. As was mentioned earlier, more than 1,000 new cases are diagnosed in our community every year. With those kinds of numbers comes great strength. Of course, we are even stronger when you join us.
We know support isn’t only needed for survivors. Cancer reaches out and affects those who care about you as well. Accordingly, we offer support for the family and loved ones of men who are touched by this disease. Your loved ones are an integral support network for you, and we have the resources to help them help you better and understand the struggles you may face. If you are a family member researching The Survivors Association for a loved one diagnosed with or recovering from prostate cancer, you’ve come to the right place. We have been fortunate to help countless men since our inception in 1992. Members of our group bond over their shared experiences and are stronger as a result.