Support can sometimes come in various forms. Some of the time it happens when it is least expected.
For Robert Bostrom and Bob Orlando, they found support in one another as teammates on the softball diamond. Upon realizing they both were diagnosed with prostate cancer, they felt it was only natural to start up a support group.
“We both have (prostate cancer),” Orlando said. “There are other guys that are going to have it. If we can help them just talk about it, or answer questions, and share experiences. That was kind of the whole thrust of this thing when we started it up.”
The first meeting was held back in September. There were six men who attended, and the conversations had seemed to really help those who came.
“One of the participants in the first meeting just moved here from California and was looking for doctor recommendations,” Bostrom said. “That was brought up and guys threw in their doctor’s names. Hopefully they follow up with that and find someone closer to home.”
In addition to offering an outlet, the group also is hoping to help reduce stress, depression, and anxiety within the individual. Bostrom and Orlando hope to give those a better understanding of prostate cancer through talking about what they, and others have experienced.
Like most cancers, early detection is key. The group aims to discuss prevention and educate those about the many risk factors, such as age, family history, and lifestyle choices that can make a major impact on one’s health. This information will be helpful to those who have not been diagnosed yet and are just curious about prostate cancer.
“Start talking to your doctor about men’s health,” Orlando added. “It starts with the person. It’s not a death sentence by any means, but the sooner you can detect will give you a chance at a better outcome.”
The next meeting will be held on Friday, October 27 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Hickory Room. The group is open to anyone. Feel free to email Robert at rjbostrom@hotmail.com with any questions.
“There are a lot of other groups out there,” Bostrom added. “We just thought maybe there are some guys in this community that wanted to talk about it or felt that they didn’t have an outlet. We just wanted to give them an opportunity, like us, just to talk to each other.”
