A Volunteer’s Determination Shapes His Cancer Journey, Becomes a Call to Action

The day a person hears the words, "you have cancer," can feel like the world stops turning. But for Roy S. Johnson, a prominent figure in the Birmingham, Alabama, community, that moment became a profound call to action.

With a deep sense of faith and determination, Roy is choosing to share his prostate cancer diagnosis on a public stage. His efforts aim to inspire others to know their risk for prostate cancer and talk to their doctor about getting screened.

A family history

When Roy was just eleven years old, his father passed away. The cause of death was kept secret. Decades later, many years before his own diagnosis, Roy learned that his father died from prostate cancer.

The realization that he had a family history of prostate cancer put Roy on a path to learn more about the disease. He was particularly interested in learning about its impact on Black men, who carry a disproportionate burden of prostate cancer in the U.S. The incidence of prostate cancer in Black men is 67% higher, and the death rate is two times higher than in White men.

In light of his father’s cancer, Roy focused on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and keeping up with his regular screening tests and check-ups. Unfortunately, after one such check-up, Ray received life-altering news.

A not-so-surprising diagnosis

In 2025, a routine blood test included a PSA (prostate-specific antigen), the test used to screen for prostate cancer. Results indicated that Roy had an elevated PSA level, prompting his primary care physician to refer him to a urologist. After consulting with the urologist, Roy underwent a prostate biopsy.

Waiting for biopsy results was emotionally draining, filled with uncertainty and reflection. On July 3, 2025, Roy received a call from his urologist and was told he had prostate cancer.

Announcing to the World

As a longtime journalist, Roy is no stranger to sharing breaking news, but this time was different. Instead of carrying his diagnosis in secret, he decided to do what he does best, and share his experience with the world.

“I have prostate cancer, and the faith to beat it,” he announced in a recent article.

His words resonated far beyond a simple health update, carrying a message of hope and resilience. Roy’s journey is a testament to the power of early detection.

“My father’s fate does not have to be mine,” Roy said.

A New Chapter

Roy joined the Alabama American Cancer Society Board of Directors in 2019, volunteering his time and talents to support the organization’s mission. His own diagnosis has reinvigorated his passion for advocacy.

Many Black men do not receive a prostate cancer diagnosis until it has reached later stages, making the disease much harder to survive. Roy believes that by sharing his personal experience, he can break down barriers, particularly in the Black community.

"Roy's bravery in sharing his story is incredibly powerful," said Maryhelen Kirkpatrick, Alabama executive director of development for the American Cancer Society. "By using his platform to talk openly about his diagnosis, he is helping to de-stigmatize cancer and empower men to take control of their health. His message perfectly aligns with our mission, and our work to ensure everyone has a chance to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer."

For Roy, his cancer journey is not just personal. It’s an opportunity to shine a light on the importance of support, community, and the life-saving work of organizations like the American Cancer Society.

“Now, my charge is to encourage my brothers, of all colors, to take care of themselves and get themselves checked,” he said, “and to conquer cancer.”