The Cancer Support Center is inviting men to open up about their cancer journeys in a supportive and relaxed environment at its upcoming Man to Man event.
Scheduled for Sunday, March 30, at 2 p.m., the gathering will take place at Copper Still Martini Bar, 1961 Ridge Road, Homewood, providing an opportunity for attendees to share their experiences, learn about prevention and treatment, and connect with others who understand the challenges of a cancer diagnosis.
Organized as part of the center’s newly revamped Ribbons of Hope initiative, the event aims to break down barriers that often prevent men from discussing their health openly.
Creating a space where they feel comfortable is a key focus, said Darnesha Evans, community outreach coordinator at the Cancer Support Center.
“When it comes to cancer, it’s very personal for men,” Evans said. “We’re trying to do something where they will be comfortable among each other and just get the conversation started.”
To encourage open discussions, the event will feature speakers from the Divine Nine, a coalition of historically Black fraternities and sororities.
Among them are a 38-year-old man battling jaw cancer and another individual navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis, both sharing their experiences to foster a sense of community.
Evans hopes their stories will help others feel more at ease discussing their own health.
“The goal is to show men that it’s okay to talk about their health,” she said. “What’s more relatable than hearing from someone who’s going through it?”
Along with these conversations, the event will provide tangible resources for attendees. Representatives from Franciscan Health and the Cancer Support Center will be present, offering information on screenings, support services and preventive care.
Evans stressed that even those who may not be ready to speak about their experiences can still benefit from attending.
“Even if attendees aren’t ready to share their stories, they’ll leave with resources they can use when they are,” she said.
To make the event feel welcoming and informal, Copper Still Martini Bar will offer a full taco bar, allowing attendees to enjoy food and drinks while engaging in meaningful conversations.
Evans said choosing a setting that feels relaxed and familiar was intentional, helping to create an environment where men can open up without feeling pressured.
Beyond being a space for discussion, Man to Man is also a fundraiser, with proceeds benefiting the Cancer Support Center, which provides free services for individuals affected by cancer at every stage, from diagnosis through remission.
Evans hopes the event will be the start of a larger effort to engage men in ongoing conversations about health and wellness.
Registration for Man to Man is encouraged but not required, and Evans emphasized that a strong turnout will help create a better support system for men facing cancer.
“The more men who attend, the stronger the support system becomes,” she said. “We want them to know the Cancer Support Center is here for them—before, during and after their diagnosis.”
While the primary focus is on Man to Man, the Cancer Support Center is also hosting an open board meeting on Wednesday, March 27, at 6 p.m., showcasing recent renovations that have made the facility more spacious and inviting.
