October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we all know that cancer of any form has no regard for time.
With many metal musicians like Chuck Billy of Testament, Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath, Peter Criss of Kiss, James Murphy of Death, Nergal of Behemoth, Vivian Campbell of Def Leppard, Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden, Ronnie James Dio, Eddie Van Halen affected by the deadly disease in some form, it’s something we really should be discussing more often.
Today, I turn to the TJ Martell Foundation, a name every metalhead should acquaint themselves with, to discuss the importance of cancer research with Kate Fitzpatrick, where to find help if needed, and more. You never know when it might save the life of someone you know.
Frank: I wanted to talk about the importance of cancer awareness, as I feel it’s something many don’t think about until they’ve been affected in some way or another. What do you feel is something everyone in the world should know about cancer?
TJMF: Because of advances in cancer research and increased awareness about the importance of early detection, cancer is becoming more preventable and curable every day. Our Me For You movement, for example, encourages women to schedule their screenings and remind loved ones to do the same. As prostate cancer specialist Dr. Mitchell Benson of Columbia recently shared on our blog, “I want men and their loved ones to know that prostate cancer is very curable when caught early and potentially lethal when not.”
Frank: The TJ Martell Foundation is the music industry’s largest, and funds innovative medical research focused on curing cancer. In your experience, how has the relationship between music and cancer research bonded together over the years?
TJMF: Our Founder, Tony Martell was joined by many of his friends in the music industry to begin the T.J. Martell Foundation almost 45 years ago. Over the years, we have kept the Foundation’s roots deep in the music industry. We raise money through a series of ongoing campaigns and signature events leveraging the star power, celebrity and mass appeal of recognized music industry talent. As our Chairman said at the dedication of the Joel A. Katz Music is Medicine Collection at Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, "We believe there is a real connectivity in terms of music and medicine. We believe that music can help people's disposition and aid them through certain protocols and treatments they may receive.”
Frank: As you mentioned, early detection can save someone’s life when discussing a cancer diagnoses. Is there any specific screening or tests our readers can ask their doctor for, in an effort to detect this as early as possible?
TJMF: Our Me For You page on our website breaks down the recommended screenings for women based on their age group. And for men, Dr. Mitchell Benson frequently stresses the importance of prostate cancer screening with PSA testing.
Frank: TJ Martell is also a powerful source for those who have been recently diagnosed, connecting folks with the right doctors. Can you tell us how someone might find the help they need through your foundation?
TJMF: We support patients and families both inside the music industry and out, so one doesn’t need to be a musician to seek our help. Simply start on the Patient Services page of our website, fill out the form and a representative will follow up within one business day.
Frank: For anyone who is looking to get more involved with the fight against cancer, what would you suggest?
TJMF: Our events are a terrific way to get involved with our foundation and support our cancer research! Tickets are always available on our website. You can also sign up to receive our e-newsletters to learn more about our foundation. Or if you prefer, simply call the nearest regional office and our staff would be happy to explain how you can get involved.
