That’s me (on the right) with Lebron James and others at the Ralph Lauren Center For Cancer in Harlem.
Last year, I was alerted to the alarming fact that something to the tune of 75% of all men diagnosed with prostate cancer in Harlem wind up dying from it because the detection happens so late in the process. It is supposedly the highest rate for any neighborhood in the US, and could all be prevented if patients chose to get tested earlier in their lives. The Ralph Lauren Center For Cancer Care And Research was founded to address this problem, and they approached me when they opened to help with outreach. I made some suggestions for them to hit up various local tournaments where many players and fans are of age to be concerned, or have elders that are. I also knew that I was part of the 40+ target audience myself . . .
I turned 42 recently, and although a prostate exam is not something to look forward to, I decided that I couldn’t be out there promoting others to get checked without doing so myself. Gracias a Dios, I’m fine. My family does have history with cancer, however luckily my results were negativo. Shortly after, Lebron James slid through the Ralph Lauren Center For Cancer Care And Research in Harlem to show support to some of the cancer patients currently being treated, and also to greet others who have gone through the early detection process.
‘Bron was real respectful walking through the halls, and seemed very chill to me. He tried giving me a business handshake, but I returned it with a pound and homeboy hug. Then one of the doctors stepped on my Air Force 1s Rasheed Wallace hi-tops by accident, and I yelled out, “Oh, no! Doc, you didn’t step on my sneakers!” I was totally joking, and everyone started laughing, including Mr. #23, which was a nice ice breaker to get heads more relaxed.
On the real, mad respect to the young man. He had just come back from the China Olympics, I’m sure had a ridiculous amount on his plate, yet he made time to flow the ‘hood to inspire his peoples to perhaps save their very own lives, or at least share a smile on their last days with us. I don’t know if his visit made national news. Probably not. But he gets a ton of props from me. Now if he can just make an appearance on the court during a Uptown summer tournament in ‘09 . . .
If you are in your 40s, or love someone who is, please reach out to the Ralph Lauren Center For Cancer Care And Research. They have grants that can help many get tested who may think they can not afford such treatment.
They are located at:
1919 Madison Ave
New York, NY 10035
(212) 987-1777
Bless
October 16th, 2008 at 10:25 am
Feets Malone says:
Bob –
This is a wonderful cause and as you uncovered a much needed resource in our backyard (no pun intended). BUTT, do you care to elaborate on the process of prostate checking??? (to those that aren’t familiar)
I believe this was the same night LBJ walked through the Mercer St store as well and created the first Be-Spoke ($800 customized Air Force I low)
October 16th, 2008 at 10:33 am
Teddy "Doowop" says:
Nice to hear stuff like this happening. Glad to see Bron is a good dude that takes time out and cares. He is one of my top fav players of all time so that makes it extra nice to hear. Those Sheeds are flavors by the way!
October 16th, 2008 at 10:57 am
Audie 5000 says:
Bob ,
Great post familia ! A lot of us are getting close to that age that we need to better take care of our bodies and mind. It’s good to know that the Harlem community is aware of this growing problem.We need to be healthy and strong for our children and there children.
October 16th, 2008 at 11:36 am
trayBAGZ!! says:
guys, it is not the most comfortable situation, but finding out the results in the long run are definately worth it!!!!!!!!!!
ayo bob sirius as cancer(no pun intended), dem sheeds are HEAT INDEXX 50!!!
October 16th, 2008 at 12:43 pm
Drew Peets says:
Another “Small World On This Blog” Moment…
Bobbito “The Barber” on one side and my man Denny Moe who owns the barbershop I go to and is a legend with the clippers.
Beautiful thing when a cause brings folks together. So does “Humanitarian” get added to your HOF plaque Bobby?
October 16th, 2008 at 6:49 pm
PFTB says:
Even though there’s no history of prostate cancer in my family i’ve gotten tested each of the last 5 years.
Thank goodness the results have continued to be negative.
Hey Feets-the Daily news always does free screening tests (I think its usually around May or June)Check the Daily news during those months.
The screening is just a blood test called a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen)to see if your serum PSA levels are within normal limits.Even if the levels are with in normal limits its still recommended that you get a DRE (Digital Rectal Exam) especially if you have a family history.
Yo KBL,SURRRRE you were joking when the doc stepped on ya “Sheeds”.For real though,how long after did you check out ya kicks to see if he smudged them? I’m joking (wink,wink)
October 16th, 2008 at 7:34 pm
Seldom Seen says:
The word Cancer is very scary but real and I’m sure we all know someone close to us or very near who has been affected by it’s ill effects…this article spells that out so let’s all take the time like Bobitto encourage’s and do the right thing so we can continue enjoying the god given time with our family, friends and love ones…taking the time now can truly save your live!
October 17th, 2008 at 8:42 pm
23edge says:
Lebron is wearing a suit that looks like what MJ had back when he had a cast on his leg