From Diagnosis to Assignment: David Moffett’s Story

Episode Show Notes Guest: David Moffett (Prostate cancer survivor, U.S. Marine veteran, founder/advocate) Host: Reggie Hicks Theme: Breaking the silence around prostate cancer, survivorship, side effects, and building support systems Episode Summary Reggie Hicks closes out the final show of 2025 with a candid, survivor-centered conversation featuring David Moffett, a Marine veteran, husband, father, and grandfather whose life changed after a routine physical revealed elevated PSA levels. David shares that he had little to no understanding of prostate cancer beforehand, and what made it harder was realizing that the prostate cancer histories of his father, grandfather, and stepfather were never directly discussed with him—he only learned details through the women in his life. That silence fueled frustration, grief, and ultimately a sense of calling to break a generational pattern. David recounts the shock of being told he had cancer in a public workplace setting—a moment that left him devastated and scrambling to process how he would tell his wife and family. He describes navigating the medical system, including a first urologist whose approach triggered his PTSD and felt dismissive, and how switching to a more supportive physician changed everything. David emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, encouraging men to “fire” doctors who don’t listen, don’t explain, or don’t treat them with dignity. He also walks through the decision-making process between radiation, active surveillance, and surgery—ultimately choosing prostate removal because he couldn’t emotionally carry the weight of “watching” the cancer over time. The conversation turns deeply real as David and Reggie talk about post-surgery side effects, including incontinence, the emotional impact of sexual changes, and the trial-and-error path many men face in trying to regain function. David shares how faith, his wife’s support, and time helped him heal—and how he now challenges the damaging idea that erections define “manhood.” During COVID, what began as a personal recovery journey became a mission: David launched the DMOF Prostate Cancer Support Group and later Courage and Strength to Fight, Inc., creating safe spaces for men (and increasingly women caregivers) to speak openly about fear, relationships, depression, intimacy, and survivorship. Reggie closes with a call to action: know your PSA, don’t suffer in silence, and support the podcast’s year-end fundraising challenge grant. 5 key takeaways •Silence can be deadly. Prostate cancer often goes undiscussed in families—David didn’t learn key family history until after his diagnosis. Open conversations can change outcomes. •Advocate for yourself (and switch doctors if needed). A supportive provider who listens, welcomes questions, and respects your dignity can transform your experience and decision-making. •PSA is a clue—not the whole story. David’s PSA wasn’t extremely high, yet cancer was present throughout his prostate; understanding PSA alongside other diagnostics matters. •Side effects are real—and survivable. Incontinence, ED, and emotional distress can hit hard after treatment. Healing takes time, support, and honest guidance (and it’s okay to grieve). •Your value isn’t your erection. David challenges the “manhood” narrative and reframes masculinity around character, love, fatherhood, faith, and community, encouraging men to seek support rather than suffer alone. Guest Bio — David Moffett David Moffett is a U.S. Marine veteran, prostate cancer survivor, and men’s health advocate based in Georgia. After his own diagnosis and treatment journey, David committed himself to breaking the silence that keeps many men from seeking help. He founded Courage and Strength to Fight, Inc., a nonprofit focused on creating safe spaces for men and families to discuss prostate cancer, treatment realities, side effects, mental health, and survivorship. He also leads the DMOF Prostate Cancer Support Group, bringing together a growing brotherhood (and supportive caregivers) to replace isolation with community, faith, and practical resources. Books, tools, and websites mentioned Websites / Links • If You Are My Brothers (donate): ifyouaremybrothers.org/donate • If You Are My Brothers (main site mentioned): ifyouaremybrothers.com • Courage and Strength to Fight: www.courageandstrengthtofight.com