For people facing cancer, advocacy can begin with something simple: asking questions, sharing information and making sure the people around you are paying attention to their health.
In this program from UC San Diego’s annual Prostate Cancer Patient Summit, keynote speaker and three-time MLB All-Star David Justice talks from the perspective of a friend, teammate and advocate. Five of his closest friends have had prostate cancer, experiences that prompted him to learn more and encourage others to take their health seriously.
“I think it’s my duty to get this information out to as many of my athlete buddies, my entertainer buddies, my golf buddies,” Justice says, noting how many people he knows who do not regularly go to the doctor.
Justice draws on lessons from baseball: supporting teammates, handling setbacks and focusing on what can be done today. He describes staying closely connected with friends going through prostate cancer and acknowledges the mental stress that can come with a diagnosis. He also recognizes caregivers, telling them, “Just know that you are appreciated.”
Justice’s message is not about pretending difficult days will disappear. Instead, he emphasizes persistence.
“Let’s win the day. Just win the day,” he says.
That idea—taking things one day at a time—connects his experiences in sports, friendship and health advocacy. His appearance at the summit underscores the value of speaking openly, looking out for one another and helping people find the information and support they need.