The prostate health speaking tour 2026, led by 19-year two-time survivor Mellve Shahid Sr. and organized by The Empowerment Network (TEN), is a St. Louis-based community awareness initiative designed to combat high prostate cancer diagnosis rates through early detection, screening education, and community advocacy. Taking place across local churches in July and August 2026, the tour provides vital health guidance, free PSA screening vouchers, and support systems specifically aimed at addressing severe healthcare disparities affecting Black men.
Prostate cancer remains one of the most critical health challenges facing men in America today—yet when caught early, it is also one of the most treatable. To break the silence, promote early detection, and inspire faith and resilience, The Empowerment Network (TEN) has announced the Prostate Health Speaking Tour 2026.
Featuring Mellve Shahid Sr.—a 19-year, two-time prostate cancer survivor and Executive Director of TEN—this community speaking series invites men, caregivers, and families across the St. Louis metropolitan area to engage in life-saving conversations about prostate health, screening, and survivorship.
The Power of Resilience: Mellve Shahid Sr.’s Story
After surviving two distinct battles with prostate cancer, Mellve Shahid Sr. dedicated his life to advocating for men’s health and eliminating healthcare disparities. What started as a personal promise during treatment grew into The Empowerment Network (TEN), a St. Louis-based non-profit dedicated to restoring hope, offering free PSA screenings, delivering post-surgery kits, and guiding men and families through diagnosis and recovery.
“Take charge of your health. Do it for yourself, your family, and for all those who care about YOU.”
— Mellve Shahid Sr., Co-Founder & Executive Director of TEN
Tour Details & Locations
All events are free and open to the public. Attendees will hear a message centered on Faith, Hope, Resilience, and Survival, while gaining actionable health education and screening guidance.
| Date & Time | Host Location | Address |
| Sunday, July 26, 2026 11:00 AM | Calvary Missionary Baptist Church | 2822 Martin Luther King Dr. St. Louis, MO 63106 |
| Sunday, August 9, 2026 10:00 AM | Prince of Peace Church | 9230 Natural Bridge Rd. St. Louis, MO 63134 |
| Sunday, August 16, 2026 10:00 AM | St. John Missionary Baptist Church | 913 N. Garrison Ave. St. Louis, MO 63106 |
Understanding Prostate Cancer: Key Facts
Knowing the facts can save lives. Early screening allows doctors to detect changes in the prostate long before symptoms appear.
- 1 in 8 Men: Will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.
- Age Risk Factor: Approximately 60% of all cases are diagnosed in men aged 65 or older.
- Racial Disparities: Black men are 1.7 times more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer compared to white men.
- Early Detection Works: The 5-year relative survival rate is 98% when caught in its early stages.
About The Empowerment Network (TEN)
The Empowerment Network, Inc. (TEN) is a grassroots, non-profit organization focused on prostate cancer awareness, education, advocacy, and patient support. By partnering with community centers, churches, and medical institutions, TEN provides:
- Free PSA Screening Vouchers: Helping uninsured and underinsured men access routine blood tests.
- Monthly Support Groups: Safe spaces for survivors, patients, and families to share experiences and receive emotional guidance.
- Kits for Recovery: Practical care packages provided to men undergoing surgery.
- Community Education: Workshops and speaking tours aimed at demystifying prostate screenings.
Join the Conversation
Prostate cancer affects more than just an individual—it impacts entire families and communities. Mark your calendar for one of these dates and take a proactive step toward health and longevity.
- Website: tenstl.org
- Phone: (314) 385-0998
- Email: contactus@tenstl.org\
#ProstateHealth2026, #MensHealthAwareness, #ProstateCancerSurvivor
