WHY THE PROJECT WAS STARTED

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We believe no family should face prostate cancer in confusion or silence. Our work brings clarity, support, and resources to men and families everywhere.

The goal of the "If You Are My Brothers" campaign is to raise awareness about prostate cancer, particularly among men of color who face a higher risk of contracting and dying from the disease. The campaign's origin can be traced back to an email sent by Ralph C.T. Franklin, a real estate attorney and my fraternity brother.

 A normal prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, level in men is less than one, and an elevated PSA may indicate a prostate issue. A simple blood test can measure a man’s PSA level. If his PSA continues to rise over time, a biopsy might be necessary to rule out cancer. While some prostate cancers grow slowly, even the most aggressive cases, if caught early, can often be treated with a high survival rate.

This year, over 300,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, and a man dies from the disease every 15 minutes.  One in five African American men will develop prostate cancer during their lifetime. Black men are more likely to develop this cancer compared to other groups.

Many research studies have been conducted on this healthcare disparity. Pamphlets about a healthy prostate are often displayed at community health fairs in Black communities.

So why do more African American men die from this disease—one of the most treatable cancers—than any other ethnic group? What can be done to change those odds for the husbands, fathers, grandfathers, uncles, cousins, or friends? How can one project make an impact? How can one project save lives?

          “If You are My Brothers” is that project.

 If You Are My Brothers is a poignant documentary and outreach project that delves deep into the lives of two African-American men grappling with prostate cancer. The film centers around Ralph Franklin, a determined real estate lawyer whose PSA level has soared to a staggering 100, leaving him with a dire prognosis. Despite the grim outlook, Ralph encounters a compassionate physician who encourages him to shift his focus from the fear of death to embracing the possibility of life. This pivotal meeting ignites a newfound hope within him.

Simultaneously, Reggie Hicks, the documentary's producer, finds himself confronting his own diagnosis of prostate cancer as he captures Ralph's journey on camera. This unexpected twist intertwines their narratives, creating a powerful story of resilience and brotherhood. 

As the story unfolds, we"You Are My Brothers" is a poignant documentary that follows two African-American men, Ralph Franklin and Reggie Hicks, as they navigate the challenges of prostate cancer. Ralph, a real estate lawyer with an alarming PSA level of 100, finds hope after meeting a compassionate physician who encourages him to focus on life rather than death. Meanwhile, Reggie, the film's producer, faces his own cancer diagnosis while documenting Ralph's journey. Their intertwined narratives showcase resilience, brotherhood, and the importance of community support in overcoming adversity. 

Together, they inspire each other, highlighting the strength found in connection and vulnerability. are drawn into the struggles and triumphs of these two men. Each faces their unique challenges, yet both share a profound bond rooted in their experiences. Together, they inspire each other and others around them, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, there is strength in connection, hope in vulnerability, and a deep-seated brotherhood that can uplift the spirit. Their journeys serve as a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of community support in battling life-threatening illness.