The DeWayne Charleston Foundation initiating raising Prostate Cancer Awareness

On August 31st, 2024, Panther Stadium at Prairie View A&M University was more than just the battleground for the annual Labor Day Classic between Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern University—it became a beacon for prostate health awareness. Spearheaded by The DeWayne Charleston Foundation (DCF), the initiative held profound meaning for many, including myself, as I lost my father to this cancer in October of '97.

DeWayne Charleston, the founder of DCF, has been battling prostate cancer for 16 years. He has been a long-time resident of Prairie View, Texas, where he runs daily at the University track circuit and stadium steps. When his life changed, DeWayne held the position of Justice of the Peace of Waller County. Now as a Texas Ambassador with the Prostate Health Education Network (PHEN), he serves to raise awareness of prostate cancer to Black men to gain better access to screenings, diagnosis, and treatment.

This year’s game was more than just a continuation of an intense football rivalry; it served as a vital reminder of the importance of health education, particularly regarding prostate conditions. Prostate cancer is the second most common form of cancer in men and is curable if caught in its early stages. Factors such as family history, genetics, ethnicity, lifestyle, and age can all impact the risk of developing prostate cancer. Age plays a larger role in risk, with about six in ten cases being diagnosed in men aged 65 and older. In the African-American community, the stakes are even higher, with one in six men facing a diagnosis in their lifetime, compared to one in eight across the general population. This statistic underscores the critical need for awareness and early detection.

Blake Green, a Texas Southern University alumni and an advocator of prostate cancer awareness, informed me it has been just shy of an entire decade since TSU last claimed victory in this classic Labor Day weekend matchup against Prairie View A&M. However, beyond the score on the field, both schools emerged as champions of health advocacy. Thanks to a generous partnership with Riddell and the National Football League, each school received $15,000 and 45 new Speedflex helmets. These helmets weren’t just functional; they carried a powerful message, each adorned with a light blue ribbon decal symbolizing the awareness campaign. Players further reinforced this message by donning light blue towels and gloves, visually uniting in the cause of promoting health.

The commitment to prostate health didn’t stop at the game. Throughout September, which is recognized as Prostate Health Awareness Month, The DeWayne Charleston Foundation is offering free prostate cancer screenings. These screenings are crucial, providing an opportunity for early detection, which can significantly improve outcomes for those at risk, starting at 40. There will be four screenings in the Houston area.

The event’s significance was further highlighted during the pre-game coin toss. DeWayne Charleston, along with sponsors such as African American Male Wellness Agency, Salt & Pepper Gang, 100 Black Men, prostate cancer survivors, and advocates, gathered on the field, all dressed in blue—a color now synonymous with prostate health awareness. This visual display of solidarity was a powerful testament to the importance of community and collective action in the fight against prostate-related diseases.

As I stood there, surrounded by individuals united by a common cause, I was reminded of the critical role that health plays in our lives. The event was more than just a game; it was a rallying cry for awareness, early detection, and hope—a message that resonates deeply in our community and beyond.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FREE PROSTATE CANCER SCREENINGS THIS SEPTEMBER, PLEASE VISIT WWW.DCFBLUE.ORG.