In Charlotte, North Carolina, a remarkable 70-year-old man named Bob Lane, affectionately known as “Elevator Bob,” has dedicated his retirement to supporting men facing prostate cancer. Bob, a prostate cancer survivor himself, has taken it upon himself to foster a sense of community for those living with this often-silent disease. Located just outside an elevator at the Urology Specialists of the Carolinas, he provides invaluable assistance to patients navigating the complexities of their diagnoses.
Prostate cancer affects over 300,000 men annually, with approximately 5 million men currently living with the condition in the U.S. Alarmingly, the state of North Carolina is expected to see about 11,000 new diagnoses in 2025 alone. As Bob points out, “Nobody talks about prostate cancer. Men don’t want to talk about it.” This silence can exacerbate feelings of isolation among those diagnosed, making support systems critical.
Bob was diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer in 2014, after experiencing a significant rise in his PSA levels in just a few months. Initially in the early stages of his diagnosis, he underwent surgery to remove his prostate and surrounding organs. Unfortunately, the cancer returned three years later, having advanced to Stage 4. Although Bob faced significant challenges, he bravely fought back, enduring extensive radiation treatment that, fortunately, led to him being four years cancer-free today.
Reflecting on his experience, Bob noted the frustration many patients face in finding reliable information about prostate cancer and its side effects. This realization motivated him to become active at the Urology Center, where he began distributing flyers for a local 5K fundraiser benefiting Zero, a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting men with prostate cancer to essential resources. During this time, he discovered an opportunity to provide real support to those grappling with similar challenges.
In 2023, Bob committed to sitting in the lobby of the Urology Specialists two days a week. Here, he meets with men who are contemplating their own cancer journeys. “I can let them know that, ‘Hey, I’ve been through what you’re going through. I’m continuing to go through it’,” he explained. Many patients find solace in his words, and the hugs they share reflect the bonds being formed. Bob’s presence alone serves as a beacon of hope, signaling that they are not alone in their struggles.
His efforts have not gone unnoticed. Tracy Peck, the Nurse Director at the Prostate Cancer Clinic, praises Bob for the connections he fosters. Patients often recall him fondly, saying, “Oh, I know Elevator Bob. We talked.” His unique role has enhanced the sense of community within the clinic, making visits feel more like family gatherings than sterile medical appointments. Bob hands out pamphlets containing vital information on symptoms, support groups, healthy lifestyles, and nutrition—a holistic approach to prostate cancer awareness.
Elevator Bob’s impact extends beyond mere interaction. He actively follows up with patients, sending personalized emails with helpful links and attachments that provide even more information. His careful approach makes every encounter meaningful, often transforming casual greetings into lasting relationships of support. Patients now stop by during non-appointment days, eager to discuss their journeys or seek guidance.
Though some days are quieter than others, Bob approaches each moment with positivity and purpose. His definition of a win is simple: helping someone for the first time and providing reassurance that they are not alone. His mission stems from genuine care; helping individuals understand they are part of a larger community gives meaning to a diagnosis that initially felt daunting.
The importance of open conversation around prostate cancer cannot be overstressed. Men often shy away from discussing their experiences, which can increase feelings of isolation and anxiety. Elevator Bob not only provides answers to pressing questions but also breaks this cycle of silence by encouraging openness and dialogue among men facing similar challenges. His impact in the Urology lobby has inspired others to consider how they can also contribute to this growing community of support.
If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of prostate cancer, resources like Zero Cancer offer valuable educational materials specifically designed for newly diagnosed individuals. These resources provide crucial information and support necessary for understanding the journey ahead.
In sharing his story and dedicating his time to uplift others, Elevator Bob exemplifies the power of community and kindness in overcoming one of modern medicine’s most challenging diagnoses. Through his efforts, he has turned a hardship into an opportunity for healing, making a meaningful difference in the lives of many men in Charlotte and beyond.
For more information on prostate cancer support, visit Zero Cancer and explore resources like the "Newly Diagnosed Prostate Cancer Guide," which Elevator Bob frequently shares with patients. In a world where communication about health challenges can be sparse, individuals like Bob Lane are shining examples of how empathy and action can bear hope for many.
