The Empowerment Network Champions Prostate Cancer Awareness Across St. Louis

Overview: The Empowerment Network (TEN) is a St. Louis non-profit organization. It champions prostate cancer advocacy, awareness, and education for men aged 40 and older. Through early PSA screenings, support circles, first responder clinics, and community partnerships, TEN delivers vital resources that save lives and comfort families.

Prostate cancer survivors and supporters smiling together at The Empowerment Network annual celebration in St. Louis — Prostate cancer survivors gather in fellowship at The Empowerment Network annual event Image courtesy The Empowerment Network

Grassroots Outreach, First Responder Screenings, and Survivor Fellowship Drive Early Detection Across the Region

Awareness, Action, and Celebration Across St. Louis

September brought energy, purpose, and celebration to The Empowerment Network (TEN). Throughout National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, the team mobilized across the St. Louis metropolitan area.

Outreach efforts met residents where they live and work. The organization shared vital information through television, radio broadcasts, podcasts, and digital news. In addition, team members engaged people directly at neighborhood gatherings. Their core purpose remained clear: urge men over 40 to know their risk, get screened, and follow up.

Prostate cancer is very treatable when doctors catch it early. Alongside medical education, TEN provided essential emotional relief to patients. Families found steady encouragement, brotherhood, and practical hope.

The campaign culminated on Saturday, September 26, at the Orlando Gardens Banquet Center. Survivors, caregivers, medical partners, and donors gathered for the 18th Annual Fundraising Gala Luncheon.

Mellve Shahid, two-time survivor and founder of TEN, reflected on their regional impact:

“I hope someone became more aware of his prostate health because of something we said or did. We gave our time. We gave our resources. We gave our hearts. We tried. And if even one man’s life is changed because we tried, then every hour, every mile, every dollar, every conversation and every sacrifice was worth it. September is gone, but the work does not end.”

Reaching First Responders with “Give Me 10!”

On Saturday, September 19, TEN launched the “Give Me 10!” initiative. The event brought essential care to municipal workers in Moline Acres.

Local police officers, firefighters, and paramedics gathered with their families. Participants received free PSA blood tests and metabolic screenings. Furthermore, attendees gained access to educational materials and preventive lifestyle tips. The program carried a simple message: taking ten minutes for a test can save your life.

Police Chief Colonel JaMaal Davis earned the prestigious Blue Eagle Award during the campaign. He championed regular testing within his department. Consequently, most active officers in Moline Acres completed their prostate screenings.

Annual Gala Honors Leaders and Caregivers

The September 26 luncheon celebrated survivorship and honored community leaders who advance public health.

Dr. Kelvin Adams, President of the St. Louis Community Foundation, served as keynote speaker. Meanwhile, veteran journalist Rene Knott guided the program as Master of Ceremonies.

Clinical and Civic Honors

Dr. Lannis Hall, MD, MPH: Received recognition for her compassionate patient care. Dr. Hall accepted the honor alongside her clinical team, the First Ladies of St. Louis, and her husband John.

Dr. Martin Wice: Earned the TEN Board Member of the Year Award. The honor acknowledged his guidance and dedicated community service.
Colonel JaMaal Davis: Formally received the Blue Eagle Award for his first responder health leadership.

“Year of the Caregivers” Fashion Showcase

The gala program also featured an energetic runway event titled “Year of the Caregivers.” This show honored spouses, family members, and friends who assist loved ones during recovery. Caregivers and survivors walked the stage wearing elegant outerwear from the Fur and Leather Center. As a result, the runway highlighted resilience, modern style, and community solidarity.

Expanding Outreach and Survivor Services

Direct patient care continued across the region throughout September and October.

After Surgery Kits: The TEN Prayer Team packed essential recovery supplies for men facing surgery.
ZERO Prostate Cancer Run/Walk: On Saturday, October 3, TEN members gathered at Tower Grove Park to raise awareness.
Andy’s Seasoning Health Fair: On Friday, October 9, the outreach team shared preventative health information at 2829 Chouteau Avenue.
Medicare and Insurance Guidance: Independent broker Terrel Lane joined the October 10 support group at St. Philips Evangelical Lutheran Church to explain coverage options.
Coffee and Conversation: The group hosts open morning sessions at the TEN Cancer Center, providing a safe space for survivors to connect.

Alliances and Shared Advocacy

Celebrating STL-TV at 35

Mellve Shahid commended local municipal broadcaster STL-TV on its 35th anniversary. The station was the first outlet to broadcast TEN’s message nearly 19 years ago. Through studio interviews and sideline sports reports, STL-TV helped make prostate health a normal neighborhood conversation.

Male Breast Cancer Awareness

October also highlights Breast Cancer Awareness Month. TEN member Dennis DeShay shared his personal battle with Stage II male breast cancer. Following a double mastectomy, he established One Percent. The non-profit educates men on early warning signs and breaks health stigmas.

The WOO Award Honor

In addition, Mellve Shahid received the Warriors Overcoming Obstacles (WOO) Award from JADASA. The recognition celebrated his courage and enduring service to St. Louis families.