In spite of the rain on Saturday, July 11th, 2009, it ended up being a very positive and interesting day. My wife and I arrived at the Indianapolis War Memorial around 7:00 a.m. to participate in the Unite to Fight 5k Walk/Run to raise money and awareness for prostate cancer.

There were around 3,000 participants which was amazing, and their corporate sponsors (one of which is Kroger) provided great food. There were even a couple of places where men could get free screenings. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of death for men in our state. Thousands die needlessly each year because of not catching it soon enough for the treatments to work.

The most powerful moment of the morning for me was when I stood with 90 other men dressed in "blue survivor shirts" to have our picture taken. Men I had never met before welcomed me with "Hi survivor" and I felt an immediate bond with them. This truly is another one of life's ripples. I have been cancer free for one and a half years, and am doing fine.

For all you men out there, get checked. Make an appointment today. Your loved ones want and need you with them. Don't let them and yourself down by putting off one simple exam that could save your life. Shalom.