On the Record About Prostate Education and Advocacy

Cancer Survivor Profile: Mack Luchey 

Mack Luchey didn’t let cancer bring him down. In fact, he used his experience to empower him as an advocate for prostate cancer awareness.

Luchey, the owner of Doris Records in Buffalo and a Buffalo Music Hall of Fame inductee, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in April 2003, after undergoing five biopsies. He then received radiation treatment for 42 weeks.

Luchey’s positive attitude helped him win his fight. “A positive diagnosis does not mean a death sentence,” he said. “Have faith and believe in God.”

The knowledge Luchey obtained throughout his experience motivated him to spread the word about cancer to others. “Knowing that I’m alive and have an opportunity to help make people aware of how important it is to go and get checked keeps me hopeful,” he said.

Luchey’s involvement with the Minorities Allied for the Need to Understand Prostate Cancer (“MAN UP”) organization has provided him with the chance to serve the community by speaking at educational presentations and other awareness-building events.

As both a survivor and an advocate, Luchey recognizes the value of life. “I have an opportunity to appreciate everyone and everything,” he said. “It’s so important to enjoy every moment and the things we take for granted.”

And Luchey does just that. His perfect day consists of “waking up, being able to walk, talk, work out and enjoy life,” he says.

“It’s about being able to help people and make someone happy.”

A record number of cancer survivors celebrated life with their families and friends at RPCI's Cancer Survivors Day on Sunday, June 12, 2011.