This September, during National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, BlackDoctor.org joined ZERO Prostate Cancer (ZERO), Novartis, and Morehouse School of Medicine, to kick off “Blitz the Barriers ATL” an star-filled evening that included a powerful — and candid — panel discussion, moderated by sports journalist Ernie Johnson, Jr. of powerful solutions-driven conversation that put culture, community, and evidence-based screening front and center.
For more than 30 years, ZERO has led the way in prostate cancer advocacy, screenings, and partnerships, successfully unlocking funding toward breakthrough discoveries, treatments, and lifesaving access to care.
ZERO Prostate Cancer aims to save 100,000 lives by 2035, through improved screening, community navigation, and building stronger family support systems.
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Moderator: Ernie Johnson, Jr.
Eight-time Sports Emmy Award-winning sportscaster and host of TNT’s Inside the NBA, Ernie Johnson brought his trusted voice and heartfelt leadership to guide the conversation.
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Dr. Mathew Knowles, educator, author, music executive, and global ambassador for ZERO’s Blitz the Barriers
Best known for shaping the careers of his daughters, Beyoncé and Solange, and the hit group, Destiny’s Child, Dr. Knowles is a breast cancer survivor and BRCA gene carrier, who lost his grandfather and four of his five uncles to prostate cancer.
Montell Jordan – R&B Legend & Survivor
The Grammy Award-winning singer of This Is How We Do It turned his own prostate cancer journey into advocacy. Jordan inspired attendees with his testimony and delivered a special live performance with the NFL Players Choir.
Special Performance: Montell Jordan & NFL Players Assoc Choir
One of the evenings many high notes was when R&B crooner Montel Jordan and the the NFL Players Association Choir, lifting up men’s health through music, unity, and hope with a special survival version of his hit song, called “This is How We Cure It.”
Blitz the Barriers ATL reminded us that through culture, community, and early screening, we can save lives and change the future of prostate cancer for Black men.
Phil McKinnely – Former NFL Player & Mentor
A former Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman and longtime NFL official, Phil McKinnely continues to mentor and advocate for player health and men’s wellness.
Edgar Fields – Former NFL Player & Advocate (Left)
Drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in 1977, Fields transitioned from the NFL to a life of advocacy, following the guidance of civil rights leader James Orange. Today, he fights for healthcare access and community empowerment in Atlanta.
Dr. Leanne Woods-Burnham – Researcher & Equity Leader
Assistant Professor at Morehouse School of Medicine, Dr. Woods-Burnham leads inclusive clinical trials and brings free PSA screenings to Atlanta communities. She was recently named Innovator of the Year for Men’s Health.
Dwight Eubanks – Bravo TV Personality, Celebrity Hair Salon Owner, stylist, ZERO ambassador
Bravo star Dwight Eubanks brought his trademark style to the event, as well as his shared life experiences. The ZERO global Ambassador Dwight Eubanks sat down with BlackDoctor.org to share his diagnosis and journey with prostate cancer. Eubanks is using his platform to amplify the urgent message of early detection, self-advocacy, and the power of conversation in saving lives.
Courtney Bugler – CEO, ZERO Prostate Cancer
As the CEO of ZERO Prostate Cancer, Courtney Bugler is driving bold action to save 100,000 lives by 2035. She is passionate about breaking down barriers that keep Black men from timely prostate cancer screening and care — emphasizing equity, access, and community partnerships at the heart of ZERO’s mission. We caught up with her at the event .
Scenes From the Evening
