And now thanks to a $500,000 grant, University of Minnesota researchers are able to dedicate more time and resources to assess the short and long-term impact of men’s cancer treatment.
Through a humanitarian organization called, “TH!NK DIFFERENT Foundation,” local entrepreneur and cancer survivor Scott Petinga has donated $500,000 to the University of Minnesota for men’s cancer survivorship research. This research will be led by Masonic Cancer Center Member Charles Ryan, MD, Director of the Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation at the University of Minnesota Medical School and Medical Oncologist for the University of Minnesota Health.
“Several cancers, such as prostate and testicular cancer, present unique challenges that are specific to men. Survivorship research works to address the many challenges as they arise during and after cancer treatment. This gift will be a tremendous accelerator for our efforts to identify and address the physical, mental and emotional health of those being treated for male cancers,” said Dr. Ryan.Dr. Ryan is internationally recognized for his research on prostate cancer. His studies have unraveled the roles of androgens and the androgen receptor in castration-resistant prostate cancer. He authored “The Virility Paradox,” a book that explores the effects of testosterone on our bodies and brains, and forms the basis for many aspects of survivorship research. Dr. Ryan joined the University of Minnesota Medical School in April 2018.
“Fourteen years ago, I was diagnosed with testicular cancer. While I was deemed 'cancer free' the over-treatment and lack of empirical data changed me forever. It turns out I became infertile, my hormones vanished, brain functionality diminished and presently I’m experiencing muscle atrophy from the radiation therapy,” said Petinga. “This past December, I had the privilege to be in the presence of such a brilliant pioneer with an extraordinary vision, Dr. Charles Ryan. Together we will embark on the most advanced research in regard to cancer survivorship in men, starting with the cognitive effects of cancer therapy. With this grant along with a previous one I have spent my entire life savings in order to get better but more importantly, the research will help the countless others who will follow in my footsteps.”
Scott Petinga is a philanthropic serialpreneur who is using his businesses to help solve humanitarian needs. When he’s not busy saving the planet, Petinga disseminates his acquired wisdom, knowledge and experience in his recently released memories “No One Ever Drowned in Sweat: G.R.I.T. - The Stuff of Leaders and Champions” and nationally recognized publications (Forbes, Men’s Health, Thrive Global, New York Times, Playboy, Inc. Esquire, HuffPost, and Entrepreneur.) In addition, he’s the founder of two additional 501(c)(3) including the TH!NK DIFFERENT Foundation, The Center for Advocacy for Cancer of theInternational (CACTI) and the Fairy Foundation. He lives in the Minneapolis metro area with his wife, spoiled dog and is also the father of three pretty amazing daughters.
About TH!NK DIFFERENT Foundation
TH!NK DIFFERENT Foundation is a 501(c)3 humanitarian organization that provides grants and other program support designed to spark innovative ideas in underserved areas of housing and healthcare within the United States. Visit thinkdifferent.org to learn more.
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