Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the United States, second only to non-melanoma skin cancer. However, African American (AA) men face significant disparities compared to other groups—they are diagnosed at younger ages, experience higher death rates, and often have a lower quality of life after treatment. These inequities are driven by factors such as limited healthcare access, late-stage diagnoses, and underrepresentation in cancer support programs, which are crucial for guiding survivors through the challenges of recovery. Recognizing the urgent need for more tailored resources, the MCW Cancer Center created the Health Griots Program, which empowers AA prostate cancer survivors to serve as health advocates and trusted messengers in their communities. By educating on cancer prevention, early detection, and access to care, the Health Griots are working to close gaps in support and connect underserved patients with the care they need to live long, healthy lives.
“Education is critical in communities where systemic barriers and limited access to healthcare contribute to higher rates of late-stage diagnoses. The Health Griots Program has helped us reach people who might otherwise remain disconnected from the healthcare system, reducing fears, encouraging screenings, and offering support throughout the cancer care journey. In this way, the program is directly addressing cancer disparities,” said Ambrose Wilson-Brown, Community Engagement Coordinator-Men’s Health Outreach, and leader of the program.
The Health Griots Program builds on the foundation of Men Moving Forward (MMF), a 16-week program launched in 2019 that focuses on helping AA prostate cancer survivors lead healthier lives. Led by Melinda Stolley, PhD, Professor of Medicine and Co-leader of the Center’s Cancer Control Research Program, MMF supports men to adopt healthy diets, increase physical activity, and make lifestyle changes that improve their body composition, helping to reduce their risk of cancer recurrence and enhance their overall quality of life.
“MMF is about more than just improving physical health—it’s about empowering these men to take control of their lives after cancer and giving them the tools they need to thrive,” said Dr. Stolley. “By focusing on sustainable lifestyle changes, we’re helping AA prostate cancer survivors not only improve their chances of survival but also their overall well-being.”
MMF has inspired other efforts including the Community & Cancer Science Network’s Understanding Prostate Cancer Disparities initiative, funded by the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, which aims to identify additional solutions to prostate cancer disparities among AA men. Watch this Spectrum News 1 segment to learn how MMF supports men after cancer.
While September is recognized as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, the MCW Cancer Center is committed to supporting survivors year-round. It recently expanded the Health Griots Program by welcoming a new cohort of seven men, some of whom will be trained as community navigators to help patients access timely care and resources, ensuring AA men have equal opportunities to live healthy lives after cancer.
"Eddie, William, and Dennis have laid the foundation for how men can step up as community health leaders. I hope the next cohort will continue this momentum by building deeper relationships within their networks and expanding the program’s reach. By training some of them as navigators, we aim to have men who are not only educating but also actively guiding their peers through the healthcare system—connecting them with screenings, resources, and support during treatment. This expansion will strengthen the program’s impact by focusing on both awareness and action,” said Wilson-Brown.
Meet the Health Griots
Eddie Brooks, a Milwaukee native and two-time cancer survivor, was passionate about helping others long before his formal role as a Health Griot. After graduating from college and working in the automotive industry for many years, his cancer journey began with a rare and aggressive form of cancer in his right sinus. This experience ignited his desire to support others on similar paths, becoming a beacon of hope for friends and family navigating their own journeys. Diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2017, Eddie received treatment from experts at Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin. After his recovery, he was invited to join the MMF group, which quickly became like family to him—even after his “graduation,” Eddie continued attending meetings to support newcomers. His dedication eventually led him to the Health Griots Program, where he now shares his story at outreach events and in faith-based communities to raise awareness and advocate for cancer prevention.
“I feel like I’m fulfilling my purpose. God has blessed me through what I’ve been through, and now I can use my story to help others. If I can reach just one or two people, that makes it all worth it. I’ve seen how men react when they hear our stories—it’s like a light bulb goes off and suddenly they feel like they’re not alone. The MCW Cancer Center team has been incredibly supportive along this journey. They believe in the same mission I do—raising awareness, helping people, and saving lives. I’m just happy to be a part of it and to know that together, we’re making a real difference,” said Eddie.
Minister William Harrell grew up in Wisconsin, where he graduated from college, secured a good job, and started a family. His life took a turn when he began struggling with addiction. While incarcerated, William was diagnosed with prostate cancer after a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test revealed his levels were dangerously high. Without immediate access to treatment, he endured months of worry and uncertainty about his health. He found solace in faith, immersing himself in Bible study, ministry, and recovery programs. After his release, William sought care at Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin, where his diagnosis was confirmed, and he began treatment. His journey through recovery and finding strength in faith led him to join MMF, which became a crucial support system for him. The experience inspired him to join the Health Griots Program, where he now tells his story to raise awareness and help others in re-entry programs prioritize their health.
“We got so good at telling our stories that we grew into Health Griots, and the training we received really helped us reach people in a meaningful way. I’ve been clean for 18 years and I’m free from both addiction and cancer, but the best part of it all is knowing I can help others get to that point too. It’s easier to talk to someone who’s been through the same struggles, and that’s why I’m here—to tell men there’s hope and to remind them to take their health seriously. Go to the doctor because you’re worth it, and the people in your life need you to stick around,” said William.
Dennis McMurray, a Milwaukee native and photographer, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2019 after his doctor referred him to a urologist due to high PSA levels. Initially, Dennis didn’t take the diagnosis seriously due to other challenges in his life and stifled a lot of his feelings about having cancer. Soon after his treatment, he began receiving postcards from the MMF program but ignored them, still feeling stuck in a “dark funk.” When Dennis finally decided to attend a meeting, it turned out to be one of the best decisions he ever made. The program gave him the tools to adopt a healthier lifestyle, helping him regain his mental and physical strength. Inspired by what he learned about nutrition and encouraged by his daughters, Dennis transitioned to a plant-based diet and began working out again. As a Health Griot, he now shares his knowledge of healthy eating with others and has helped recruit new men to the program, expanding its reach and impact.
“We become the fruit of our thoughts. It’s important to think positively today and tomorrow because that shapes your life and leads to your destiny. Through MMF, I’ve gained strength in my body and clarity of mind, and it’s given me the tools to focus on healthy eating and nutrition. I’ve seen firsthand how this can change your health for the better. Now, I’m able to help other men by sharing my story and encouraging them to take care of themselves. The MCW Cancer Center team has been a huge support, giving us this platform to make a real difference in people’s lives,” said Dennis.
Learn more about the Health Griots Program.