About Us

The mission of The Reluctant Brotherhood is to provide clarity, solidarity, and levity to those who are suffering from prostate cancer (PCa) and its consequences.

• Clarity – This organization provides avenues for information, education, and support during all phases of PCa (diagnosis, treatment, and recovery) in familiar, non-judgmental. and jargon-free forums – both on- and offline. 
• Solidarity – The Reluctant Brotherhood consists of men who have/had PCa.  We stand with each participant and offer real-world experiences, perspectives, and support for those who must make decisions that often cannot be reversed.  A typical virtual gathering will be of men of mixed ages, prognoses, and knowledge; and are focused on providing support in an emotionally intelligent manner.
• Levity – Humor is a tool central to the manner in which information is disseminated, points are made, and tension is managed.  It is never meant to be hurtful; rather, humor provides a way to attain understanding during a time of personal upheaval.  Also, as you will see, the Reluctant Brotherhood are family-like friends and have no doubt shared deep emotional issues, resulting in a familiarity that lends itself to enhancing the experience we call the Reluctant Brotherhood.

 PCa patients are overwhelmed with important scores, statistics, and other facts that do not necessarily provide information regarding the “soft” side of this disease; namely, to understand the scope, learn to cope, and find hope through the lens of PCa.  It is our vision to be seen as an adjunct to any member’s team of professional providers. The Reluctant Brotherhood is committed to being the premiere source for those seeking solutions to the impact of PCa.

• Understand the Scope – Through careful listening, the experienced members place an emphasis on “the big picture” by providing realistic perspectives of a given situation.  
• Learn to Cope – A PCa cancer diagnosis is an intimate disease.  Treatment may include a combination of radiation therapy, hormone manipulation therapy, and or surgery.  While these prospects are confusing and fraught with misunderstanding, the consequences of any of these modalities can devastate all elements of well-being and identity.
• Find Hope – Those diagnosed with PCa will very likely deal with it for years.  Too often, individuals feel depressed, becoming distant from loved ones, and apprehensive about their future.  The Reluctant Brotherhood provides suggestions, guidance, and referrals based on their own experience to maximize hope.