When Keith first walked through the doors of the Prostate Cancer Centre (PCC) in 2000, he was just beginning to make sense of a personal health crisis that would reshape his life. Little did he know then that this journey would also lead him to become an enduring pillar of the Centre, dedicating a quarter of a century to volunteering and witnessing firsthand its transformation from a fledgling organization to a beacon of hope for men across Alberta.
Keith’s story with prostate cancer began in 1999 when he was 59 years old. During a routine physical, his physician requested a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test, a relatively uncommon practice at the time, as many doctors were skeptical of its benefits. When his initial results came back slightly elevated, his physician recommended a follow-up test. Keith jokes that before this, “I didn’t know what a prostate was, where it was, or what it did.” But when his second test showed a PSA level of 6.8, his physician sent him to see a urologist, Dr. Greg Kozak.
A biopsy followed, taking only six samples—far fewer than today’s standards. Keith recalls the experience with humor, noting that the first biopsy didn’t stress him out because he had no idea what to expect. But when the results were inconclusive and a second biopsy was needed, Keith knew exactly what was coming and wasn’t eager to go through it again. This time, the results confirmed that he had prostate cancer. Given the option of radiation or surgery, Keith considered the side-effects and outcomes of both and ultimately chose surgery, a decision that was reinforced after speaking with a prostate cancer survivor who bluntly told him, “dead men don’t get erections.” For Keith, the choice became clear.
The surgery was successful, though it required an eight-day stay in the hospital—much longer than today’s typical two or three days, a change Keith attributes to the incredible advancements in prostate cancer treatment. He fondly recalls his time at the Rockyview Hospital, where he stayed in a room with a stunning view of the mountains and reservoir. The nurse jokingly called it the “Rockyview Hilton,” a small comfort during a challenging time.
Back then, navigating prostate cancer treatment meant visiting multiple locations across the city for tests, biopsies, surgery, and post-op rehabilitation. The PCC was still in its infancy, and Keith realized how much the Centre would revolutionize prostate cancer care by consolidating these services under one roof. Today, patients benefit from pre-surgery “pre-hab” programs, comprehensive follow-up care, and a wide range of support services, all available at the PCC.
Inspired by his own experience, Keith began volunteering at the Centre in 2000. In those early days, the PCC was a small, evolving organization, and Keith admits there wasn’t much to do. But as the Centre grew, so did his involvement. A pivotal moment came with the introduction of the MAN VAN®, a mobile health clinic that brings prostate cancer screening to communities across Alberta. Keith was there from the beginning, helping to build the program from the ground up. He fondly refers to the MAN VAN® as “his baby,” recalling the tight-knit group of volunteers and nurses who worked tirelessly to make the project a success.
In those early days, the MAN VAN® was parked at a Ford dealership, exposed to the elements, requiring constant snow removal during winter. Keith laughs, remembering how they had to constantly sweep snow off the van. As the program expanded to include a Rural MAN VAN®, Keith’s excitement grew. He began driving both vans, bringing critical screening services to men in rural areas. Unfortunately, a knee injury eventually forced Keith to stop driving. One particularly bad fall while cleaning snow off the van led to him hitting his head on the pavement, an incident that ended his driving days for good. However, he didn’t let this setback end his volunteer work; instead, he transitioned to working inside the PCC, where he now helps patients and supports the administrative staff.
Keith’s role at the Centre has become more than just volunteering; it’s become a key part of his social life. He treasures the routine of coming in on Fridays, doing his rounds, and greeting everyone at the Centre. Reflecting on how much the organization has grown—from a small team wondering if they’d make payroll, to a fully developed and well-staffed facility—Keith is both proud and amazed.
As he considers the future, Keith sometimes wonders how much longer he’ll keep volunteering. But every Friday, without fail, he finds himself energized and happy to be at the Centre, surrounded by the community he’s helped build over the past 25 years. “I would miss this place,” he says, and it’s clear that the Centre would miss him just as much.
Keith’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and the power of giving back. His journey mirrors the evolution of the Prostate Cancer Centre itself—a journey marked by growth, compassion, and unwavering commitment to helping others. As the PCC celebrates its 25th anniversary, Keith stands as a testament to what can be achieved when we come together in support of a common cause.