The Mens’ Prostate Cancer Support Group of Enumclaw is expanding its scope to include cancers of other organs.

The group recently was approached by a man with interest in both color cancer and prostate cancer, as both are in his family history.

The support group strives to provide education and support through discussion of experiences and outcomes in a safe environment that ensures privacy and anonymity.

“Many men tend to shut down after hearing the words ‘prostate cancer’ for the first time, avoiding friends and family while trying to digest fully what it means to their lives,” said group member Mike Gordon. “Ultimately, we would like to draw from the expertise of the medical community around us by inviting key speakers to our meetings and becoming a resource to our community.”

The support group gathers every other Thursday in the conference room at Treat Heating and Cooling, 844 Mt. Villa Dr. in Enumclaw. October meetings are on the 8th and 22nd.

According to the American Cancer Society, about one man in seven is diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime. Most who are diagnosed in time do not die; more than 2.9 million men in the U.S. who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer are survivors.

For additional information about the local support group, contact George Bell at 360-927-0028 or Mike Gordon at 907-371-6448.