Régis Labeaume, a prostate cancer survivor, is dedicated to advocating for patient awareness and encouraging men to prioritize screening. As an ambassador for Procure during the Noeudvembre campaign, he emphasizes the importance of early testing and addresses misconceptions about the disease. Labeaume highlights the need for more robotic surgical equipment in Quebec and reflects on the cultural stigma surrounding prostate cancer. He also promotes a fundraising initiative featuring bow tie-themed accessories for the cause.
Régis Labeaume’s Journey to Advocacy
After triumphing over prostate cancer five years ago, Régis Labeaume proudly declares that he is now “cured.” Yet, his journey doesn’t end there; he remains passionately dedicated to advocating for patients and encouraging men at risk to prioritize screening.
Raising Awareness and Addressing Misconceptions
In an insightful interview, Labeaume shared his commitment to this important cause during the Noeudvembre awareness campaign, where he serves as an ambassador for the organization Procure. “I am on a mission because it’s a subject I think I know well,” he stated, highlighting the depth of his research into prostate cancer.
His commitment led him to observe a prostate removal surgery firsthand, where he marveled at the capabilities of the surgical team, referring to them as “literally magicians.” He emphasized how robotic assistance significantly enhances the surgical experience for patients in Quebec, making procedures less invasive.
However, he pointed out a pressing issue: the high demand for robotic equipment in the province. “I did it to know, but also to make a call to everyone because there is a lack of a robot in Quebec,” he urged, calling on organizations to collaborate in securing funding for more robots.
According to the CHU de Québec, the hospital currently operates two prostate surgery robots, with the possibility of acquiring a third under consideration.
Labeaume also underscores the critical need for awareness regarding the disease’s risk factors, which claim nearly 1,000 lives in Quebec each year. He stresses the importance of early testing, particularly for those with a family history of prostate cancer. “If I had known, I would have run to my doctor much earlier,” he admitted, reflecting on his own experience.
With a focus on shifting cultural perceptions, Labeaume praises those who have publicly shared their diagnoses and notes that while progress is being made, some stigmas remain. “The problem is that guys are afraid of not having sexual relations anymore. I want to tell them: come on, guys. You will have another [sex life],” he reassured.
As part of the Noeudvembre initiative, Procure has launched a fundraising campaign featuring a stylish collection of bow tie-themed socks and pocket squares, priced at $99. “A great Christmas gift,” Labeaume remarked, fully embracing his ambassadorial role.