Johnson: Now, prostate cancer is all in the family

This is an opinion column.

My brother Jimmy has always been the patient one, the funny one—a man whose witticisms have a way of cutting straight to the truth. When I shared my own diagnosis last year, I wrote about it here on our sister site, and he was the one who lightened the mood. We joked about the odds of two brothers facing the same disease, but the punchline didn't land as expected when he told me a few weeks ago that he, too, had been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

It is a sobering reality for the Johnson family. Prostate cancer claimed our father, and now it has struck both of his sons. This is a battle currently shared by one in eight American men—and one in six African American men. The link is clear: the disease has gone two for two with us.

Breaking the Cycle of Silence

Despite the diagnosis, we remain strong in our faith and grateful for a history of consistent checkups. Growing up, we didn't know our father died of prostate cancer until I discovered his death certificate as an adult; Jimmy believed it was lung cancer until I shared the truth with him recently. My own diagnosis followed a spike in my PSA blood test, and I have since made it a priority to advocate for men over 40—especially in the Black community—to get screened regularly. Scientific research indicates that genetic and ancestral factors play a significant role, but historical distrust of the medical system often keeps men from getting help until it is too late.

I am determined to move the needle on this issue. This week, I am participating in a panel at the National Association of Black Journalists convention in Atlanta alongside ESPN anchor and fellow survivor Jay Harris. We are also teaming up with the Mike Slive Foundation to host a free, public conversation on September 2 at the Valley Hotel in Homewood from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., where free PSA testing will be available to all attendees.

The Path Forward

Jimmy and I have taken different routes in this fight. While I have opted for active surveillance—checking my PSA every six months and maintaining my health through prayer, exercise, and diet—Jimmy is beginning a regimen of 28 radiation treatments. With modern medical advancements, prostate cancer is highly treatable if caught early; in fact, about 97% of men diagnosed will eventually pass away from other causes.

Currently, I am in a season of waiting for my latest PSA results. Drawing from the recent teachings of Pastor Mike McClure, Jr. of Birmingham’s Rock City Church, I am learning that waiting is a test of faith. Whether I am looking at the promise of Isaiah 40:31 or reflecting on the endurance required in Galatians 6:9, my resolve is absolute. Our lives have taken different turns, but our goal is unified: total healing. Prostate cancer is about to be oh-for-two with the Johnson brothers.