On March 6, 2021, I had a double mastectomy — something I never thought I’d experience. But because of early detection, I’m here today, standing strong, grateful, and loud about the importance of checking yourself. Please, do it. Don’t wait. Don’t assume it can’t happen to you. And yes — that means men too, especially those with a family history. Breast cancer doesn’t care who you are; it affects us all. When I think back on that time, what I remember most isn’t the fear — it’s the love.
My family, friends, and my church, Unity on the Bay, surrounded me with so much strength. My AA support group showed up every single day — watering my plants, bringing food, making me laugh, and reminding me that healing doesn’t happen alone. Unity on the Bay prayed for us, and I felt those prayers. And my wife, Teresa — my private nurse, my researcher, my peace when I had none. She found the answers when I couldn’t. She loved me through every stage — fear, pain, and finally, recovery.
I’m also forever grateful to the UM Sylvester Cancer Institute, whose care, compassion, and expertise carried me safely through. I know how lucky I am to be here. So this month, I honor those we’ve lost, those still fighting, and those just finding out. You are not alone. And I’m especially honored to be hosting the Breast Cancer Awareness Month Gallery Exhibition at Arts United Gallery, 2401 N Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, Florida, on October 18, starting at 7 PM. The evening will feature incredible artists who have gone through breast cancer, sharing their stories through art, hope, and healing.
It’s going to be a night of strength, beauty, and community — and I would love to see you there. Please, take this as your reminder: schedule that mammogram, do that self-exam, and check on your loved ones. Early detection truly saves lives. It saved mine.
