Climbing to Raise Prostate Cancer Awareness: A Bold New Initiative

Peaks Challenge: A Bold Climb for Awareness

In an inspiring initiative aimed at increasing awareness and advocacy for prostate cancer, ZERO Prostate Cancer has introduced the "Peaks Challenge,” a campaign that will send a group of 20 individuals, including prostate cancer survivors, advocates, and caregivers, to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This groundbreaking initiative, supported by Tolmar, seeks to shine a spotlight on survivorship and the vital importance of early detection during National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in September.

A Journey Led by Survivors

The expedition will be led by Courtney Bugler, the CEO of ZERO Prostate Cancer and a 19-year survivor herself. This compelling journey symbolizes hope and progress in the fight against prostate cancer. With prostate cancer claiming a man’s life every 15 minutes in the U.S., Courtney emphasizes the urgency of this cause. “With over 300,000 men expected to be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year alone, we need bold action to match the scale of this crisis,” she said. The Peaks Challenge represents more than just a physical climb; it is a movement aimed at raising awareness on prostate cancer—showing that survival is just the beginning of a relentless journey toward knowledge and prevention.

Addressing the Crisis

Prostate cancer remains a formidable foe, being the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American men after skin cancer, and it ranks as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men. The crisis is particularly severe for Veterans and Black men, who are substantially more likely to face a prostate cancer diagnosis. Despite the alarming statistics, early detection can significantly alter the path of this illness. Thanks to the generous support of Tolmar, ZERO Prostate Cancer is amplifying this crucial message by focusing on early screening and survivorship support, especially for underserved communities that are disproportionately impacted by this disease.

Meet the Climbers

Among the climbers is Eric Morrow, an Air Force Veteran from Maryland, who aims to show that a prostate cancer diagnosis marks a new beginning rather than an end. Diagnosed at 49, he now works tirelessly to advocate for early detection and take charge of his health and future. Another participant, Leo Nunes from Colorado Springs, is using his experience to underline the need for affordable access to prostate cancer care. As a healthcare leader, he envisions the climb as a beacon of hope, reinforcing that a diagnosis is not synonymous with despair.

Emily Faurote, a pediatric occupational therapist from Indiana, climbs for her father, who was diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer last year. She hopes to spread awareness about the significance of screenings, especially for those with family histories of prostate cancer. “If we had known then what we know now,” she reflects, “we could've caught his cancer before it spread.”

Building a Community

These climbers exemplify the collective strength and determination of the community united in this mission. A spokesperson from Tolmar commended the participants and underscored the importance of awareness, commitment to care, and survivorship. "The Peaks Challenge is a remarkable way to show what’s possible when science, passion, and purpose align," they noted.

The Call to Action

Together, ZERO and Tolmar are scaling new heights in the fight against prostate cancer and rethinking what survivorship means. The Peaks Challenge is a call for action encouraging everyone to get screened, stay informed, and join the movement advocating for a future without prostate cancer.

To learn more about the Peaks Challenge and to schedule interviews with the climbers or ZERO's leadership team, visit zerocancer.org/zero-peaks-challenge for more information.

About ZERO Prostate Cancer

ZERO Prostate Cancer is a leading national nonprofit organization committed to ending prostate cancer through advocacy, awareness campaigns, and direct patient support. They strive for early detection, equitable access to care, and improved outcomes for everyone affected by prostate cancer. For more information, visit www.zerocancer.org.

About Tolmar

Founded in 2007, Tolmar Inc. is a pharmaceutical company focused on long-acting injectable drug delivery, particularly in urology, oncology, and endocrinology. They are dedicated to enhancing the lives of patients globally through advanced science and collaboration. Learn more at www.tolmar.com.