The eighteenth-century Russian Empress Catherine the Great is supposed to have said, “I beg you take courage; the brave soul can mend even disaster.” The stirring sentence may well have been spoken by Jessica Stanley. 

Stanley is the Executive Director of Brave Men, Inc. The nonprofit organization is dedicated to raising awareness about prostate cancer and supporting patients and their families. “We aim to break the stigma surrounding men’s health by encouraging early detection and fostering open conversations,” she says. 

For Jessica and daughters Lexi, Aubrie and Dakota, the mission is personal. “My husband, Dimitrious, passed away after a 3 ½-year battle with prostate cancer,” she shares. “Losing him was devastating, but it also became a turning point for us.”

Under Jessica’s leadership, Brave Men, Inc. provides resources and emotional support to people affected by the disease. “Brave Men is not just about fighting prostate cancer,” says Jessica. “It’s about creating a community of hope, resilience and advocacy for men and their loved ones.”

Jessica, a Marysville native, juggles various roles including outreach, volunteer relations, operational management and fundraising. Much of the funding supports the organization’s largest initiative, the Brave Box program. “Brave Boxes are a care box of items that men need post-prostate cancer surgery,” Jessica explains. Brave Men has given out over 2,000 boxes at 11 care facilities across Ohio, Michigan and West Virginia.

Brave Men hosts a handful of fundraisers each year to support its work. “One of our signature events is our annual bourbon fundraiser,” says Jessica. Many people remember Dimitrious as a standout Ohio State wide receiver. At the bourbon event, former Buckeye football players join the community for an evening of fine spirits, camaraderie, and philanthropy to honor their comrade’s memory. 

“We’re also thrilled to announce our newest event, BLUE,” says Jessica. The men’s fashion runway show will debut April 10th at The Hollywood Casino. The event will feature prostate cancer survivors and former athletes modeling stylish menswear. “We’re excited about the opportunity to engage the community in a fresh, creative way.”

If prostate cancer has touched your life in some way, perhaps volunteering for Brave Men, Inc. is in your future. “It’s incredibly rewarding to know you’re making a difference in the lives of men and families affected by prostate cancer,” says Jessica. “You become part of a passionate community united by a common goal of raising awareness and providing support.” 

Volunteers help organize events, spread awareness or support patients directly. To learn more about volunteering or otherwise supporting Brave Men, Inc., email jessica@bravemeninc.com. With enough brave souls working together, Brave Men, Inc. can help mend the ravages of prostate cancer.