Survivor Runs First Marathon to Fund Prostate Cancer Research
Brian Peters celebrates five years cancer-free by tackling 26.2 miles in honor of early detection, resilience, and hope.
“There’s no better time to do this.”
Five years cancer-free and approaching his 65th birthday, Brian Peters decided to take on a challenge he never imagined: his first marathon. For Brian, the decision was about more than running—it was about gratitude, reflection, and giving back.
On March 8, he will complete 26.2 miles as part of the Prostate Cancer Foundation’s team at the Los Angeles Marathon—turning a personal milestone into meaningful support for life-saving research and helping ensure more men have the chance to celebrate milestones of their own.
Early Detection, Successful Treatment
As an executive in the pharmaceutical industry, Brian prioritized his health with annual prostate cancer screening with a PSA (prostate specific antigen) blood test. In 2016, his PSA level rose, but a biopsy showed no cancer. For several years, his PSA remained slightly elevated, yet stable, believed to be due to an enlarged prostate.
In 2020, his PSA increased again. An MRI revealed a suspicious area, and a targeted biopsy confirmed low-risk prostate cancer.
When researching his diagnosis, Brian says the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) was the first resource he found.
“I primarily used the PCF website as a trusted source for clear, credible information on treatment options and decision-making after diagnosis,” he says. “The plain-spoken explanations and patient-focused resources helped me better understand the surgical path and feel confident moving forward with that choice.”
Post-surgical pathology revealed areas of more aggressive cancer than initially detected—confirming for Brian that surgery had been the right decision. Five years later, he remains cancer-free and continues annual PSA monitoring.
Overcoming Incontinence
Recovery brought challenges. Brian experienced stress urinary incontinence—urine leakage during activities such as exercise or lifting—a common side effect of prostate surgery.
After being referred to an incontinence specialist and trying pelvic floor physical therapy without significant improvement, Brian opted for a male sling procedure. Following several adjustments, his symptoms improved dramatically.
“The everyday worry about leaking and pads is gone,” he says.
Advice for Newly Diagnosed Men: Advocate for Yourself
“Take your healthcare into your own hands,” Brian advises. “No one will advocate for you more than you.”
After receiving limited guidance on managing long-term incontinence, Brian conducted his own research and proactively requested follow-up care from his urologist—an approach he encourages other men to take.
Running to Fund Research
Beyond relying on PCF for trusted information, Brian believes deeply in the organization’s mission to accelerate groundbreaking prostate cancer research.
“I know there are a lot of guys out there who weren’t as lucky as I was. PCF is funding the research that leads to new treatments and, ultimately, cures. That’s why I’m raising at least $3,000 for PCF—because breakthroughs don’t happen on good intentions alone.”
Thank you to Brian and all of our dedicated PCF marathon runners for raising awareness and critical funds to support life-saving prostate cancer research!
Support the Prostate Cancer Foundation’s 2026 LA Marathon team.