Make an Impact in Men's Lives
Our volunteers are the heart of the Prostate Cancer Centre.
Some of them have lived through prostate cancer while others have experienced it through family and friends.
No matter the reason, our volunteers are all here because they care.
Ways to Volunteer
THE MAN VAN™ PROGRAM
The Prostate Cancer Centre’s MAN VAN volunteers are drivers and hosts for PSA (blood-testing) clinics held around Calgary and outlying areas.
RESOURCE CENTRE, PEER, AND BIOPSY SUPPORT
Volunteers who have experienced prostate cancer offer compassionate and knowledgeable support for patients in a variety of settings.
INFORMATION DESK
Volunteers assist patients in navigating their way through the SAIU and the Prostate Cancer Centre.
COMMUNITY PRESENTATIONS
Volunteers share their experience, knowledge, and a media presentation with corporate and community groups.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Volunteers help with a variety of special events for the Prostate Cancer Centre.
FUNDRAISING
Our Centre relies completely on the generosity of our community. There are a variety of fundraising volunteer opportunities available.
Volunteer Stories
“If it wasn’t for the MAN VAN..”
It was a lazy summer day during the Father’s Day weekend. John was enjoying the sunshine, chrome and shiny paint at a local show and shine. Also in attendance was a seemingly out-of-place blue and white RV .. it’s our MAN VAN.
John walked by the van several times paying it little mind, all the while enjoying the hot rods and classic cars in the show. Gradually, he wandered back towards it and was approached by a friendly fellow in blue golf shirt who greeted him and asked “Welcome to the MAN VAN. Have you had your PSA checked?”
John knew that the regular doctor visits should include PSA checks but was unsure if it had been done or what his level was. He decided to take the 10 minutes the testing required and find out.
"If it wasn't for the MAN VAN, I might not be here today. This is what a prostate cancer survivor looks like."
- John Radermacher
A couple of days passed and John received a call from the Prostate Cancer Centre, saying “Your PSA levels are elevated and we suggest a follow up with your family doctor.” Not thinking that’d be anything serious, John took their advice and contacted his doctor to schedule another blood test. This test revealed another elevated PSA reading and another test was suggested. The third test was a biopsy and this was the real eye-opener for John. This test changed his life.
“Think about the toughest words you’ll hear in your life. In my case it was – You have prostate cancer.”
After the shock of the diagnosis subsided, John was able to schedule an appointment with his urologist at the PCC to discuss treatment options. Radical surgery made the best sense to John and he had this successfully performed at the Rockyview General Hospital.
