By Tatum Northington
Elmore/Autauga News
Cancer. A word no one ever wants to hear, yet according to the American Cancer Society (ACS), in 2021 there were nearly 1.9 million new cancer diagnoses. Since September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, EAN spoke with Prattville Junior High teacher and athletic director, Donny Burnett, who was recently diagnosed and he wanted to shed light on the facts and encourage all readers to get an annual physical.
The ACS has shared that prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men and 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. While this disease is very serious, if caught early, many can survive this cancer diagnosis. However, you must know your status in order to receive treatment, and that can only happen by regularly going to the doctor.
When Burnett was diagnosed on August 16, only after having to go to the doctor in order to be able to coach and drive a bus. Burnett said, “Apparently you should go to the doctor sometimes, even when you’re not sick, I’ve learned. I guess my ‘if it ain’t broke’ mindset said why go, I’m fine. Who knows, maybe if I had gotten the exam last year instead of this year, my treatment options may have been different.”
Without AHSAA and CDL requirements, Burnett may not have known he had cancer until it was too late. Burnett has been sharing his story since he was diagnosed. He wants to help as many people as he can. Below find his full statement to EAN:
“I want to share my story, for a couple of reasons. 1. Guys go get checked! It’s easy and it can save your life. I’ve lost count as to how many people who have gone and gotten checked because of my diagnosis. One very good friend is about to embark on this same journey with me. He’s scheduled for a biopsy soon. 2. Because of the support I have received, since I posted my story on Facebook. Men I’ve known for a long time reached out to me, I didn’t know they had PC, some are very private about it, others have worn the tee-shirt. A good friend said my brother in law has PC, and he wants to talk to you, here’s his number. I’m no expert and everybody’s cancer is different and treatment affects people differently, but I have a good idea of what to expect, what to look forward to. I told my urologist, I’ll be the poster boy for PC. My football players have heard the story, and still pick on me, but somewhere out there is a guy who maybe needs a Donny Burnett to talk to, and I want them to know I’m here, just like those men were here for me, when I needed someone to answer a question or assure me it’s going to be ok. The guy who told me, “I’ve had it for 27 years” and goes to work everyday, is my new role model! So guys, if you don’t do it for yourself, go get checked for your sons, your grandsons, give them a heads up as they get older. You never know, but you could very well save their lives!”
For those who may need help with services, there are many options available to you. The public health department can help you schedule your appointments as well as help you discuss options. You can also see your primary care provider, and if you don’t have one, there are clinics in the River Region you could go to to receive a physical. If you happen to be diagnosed, there are resources available to help you pay for your treatments, such as the Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama, which is a public charity committed to providing quality programs and services to cancer patients and their families.
Check early, check often. #CancerSucks
