What happens when an elite athlete, known for his focus and discipline, faces a life-changing diagnosis? In this episode of Believe in Progress, a podcast of the AACR Foundation, we sit down with Steve Dawson, a titan in the world of pickleball, to discuss his experiences with prostate cancer.

Part One: We explore Steve’s initial diagnosis, which came as a shock following a routine physical with no prior symptoms. Steve discusses his decision-making process regarding surgery versus radiation and the "state of unknowing" that accompanies a cancer journey. He discusses how his athletic background prepared him to tackle treatment head-on and the importance of men overcoming the stigma of discussing their health.

Part Two: We dive into the intersection of passion and recovery. Steve shares how a cancer recurrence became the catalyst for launching his own paddle company, Aura, and reflects on the unique, supportive nature of the pickleball community. He shares candid, humorous, and vulnerable stories, including winning a bronze medal at the US Open while recovering from surgery, and discusses his "expiration date" philosophy that makes every sunset better and every glass of wine taste a little sweeter.

This conversation highlights the importance of early detection, the power of an active lifestyle, and the refusal to let a diagnosis define one’s limits.

Featured Guest

Steve Dawson - Professional Pickleball Player, Coach, and Entrepreneur

A legend in the sport with 18 majors to his name, Steve Dawson is the owner of the Bobby Riggs Racket and Paddle Club and the founder of Aura. He uses his platform to advocate for prostate cancer awareness and emphasizes the critical need for PSA screenings.

Key Topics:

Part One – The Diagnosis & Mindset

• The silent nature of prostate cancer: How a routine physical that found a spike in PSA levels led to Steve’s diagnosis.
• Navigating treatment options: The choice between surgery and radiation.
• The "state of unknowing": Managing the anxiety of diagnosis and recurrence.
• Breaking the silence: Why Steve feels men should talk more openly about cancer and "Man Up to Cancer."
• How physical fitness and an athlete’s mentality aided Steve’s recovery from surgery.

Part Two – Community, Innovation & Resilience

• The pickleball melting pot: How the sport builds a diverse, supportive network for patients.
• Turning adversity into action: How a cancer recurrence motivated the founding of his company, Aura.
• The bronze medal story: A humorous and gritty look at competing in the US Open immediately post-surgery.
• Integrative approaches: Combining Western medicine with Eastern holistic practices (diet, herbs, and stretching).
• Reframing the narrative: Viewing cancer survivorship as a tool to appreciate the vibrancy of life.

Take Action in the Fight Against Cancer:

If this episode moved you, here’s how you can take action to advance cancer research:

• Get screened: If you are eligible, talk to your doctor about a PSA test. It could save your life.
• Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation at https://AACR.org/Give
• Share this episode: Help amplify the message that early detection and community support can change outcomes.
• Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Production Credits:

Host: Mitch Stoller

Guest: Steve Dawson

Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes

Executive Producer: Michael Leary

Director: Anthony Lopes

Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary

Writer: Anthony Lopes

Editor: Michael Leary

Associate Producer: Heather Holland

Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

Check out more episodes: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress