From a Whisper to a Roar
After confronting metastatic prostate cancer head-on, St. Louis native Mellve Shahid used his journey to uplift and empower others. He created an organization dedicated to education, support, and early detection. Now, his mission is changing lives across the African American
community.
Events and More
Empowerment Network Fundraising Luncheon
September 2026
This year’s Gala theme is “The Year of the Caregiver.”
It’s our declaration of gratitude and our call to action.
A reminder that care saves lives, that love gives hope, and that none of us can do this work alone.
In 2026, The Empowerment Network will shine a light on the caregivers, doctors, and healthcare professionals who have walked this journey with us. We will tell their stories, celebrate their sacrifices, and say with full hearts, “thank you.”
Each year, our Prostate Cancer Awareness Luncheon Gala brings our community together to honor survivors, families, and community stakeholders impacted by prostate cancer. This special event uplifts survivors, strengthens families, and raises critical awareness and resources for men affected by this disease.
💙 We invite you to stand with us.
Your contribution helps us celebrate caregiver heroes while advancing our mission to educate, empower, and eliminate prostate cancer.
📅 Saturday, September 26, 2026
📍 Orlando Gardens Event Center
Purchase your tickets online and click Donate.
About: The Empowerment Network (TEN)
TEN STL efficiently and effectively reaches populations of uninsured, underinsured, diagnosed and undiagnosed males (aged 35 years and over) and their families to:
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Heighten awareness of prostate and related cancers
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Increase PSA testing/screening
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Provide treatment referrals, education, resources and support Increase volunteerism.
SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
During September, The Empowerment Network, Inc. (TEN), will be engaged in various media promotional activities and events to drive awareness about the importance of prostate health, focusing on the value of PSA screenings, which involve a simple blood test. The message is straightforward:
GET TESTED AND FOLLOW UP.
Listen:
Watch:
The 2026 ZERO End Prostate Cancer Run/Walk - Check back soon for updates
PROSTATE CANCER MONTHLY
SUPPORT MEETINGS
Take the Next Step
Your health is your greatest asset. By joining our prostate health support group, you take an active role in safeguarding it. Explore local or online options, get involved, and learn everything you can to stay ahead of potential risks.
Spread the message. Share this with the men in your life and encourage them to focus on prostate health. Together, we can create a stronger, healthier community.
Did You Know?
GET TESTED AND FOLLOW UP.
"You're Still A Man: Surviving Prostate Cancer," the inspiring and heartfelt book by Mellve Shahid, Sr., an 18-year prostate cancer survivor and founder of The Empowerment Network, is available for a donation. Call the TEN Cancer Center at 314.385.0998.
Get your copy TODAY!
“My passion is my gift to share with men who are struggling with the hardships and challenges that come with fighting cancer.” -Mellve
TEN in the STL
Media and In-The-News
Important
Dates
Save The Date
TEN's 18th
Anniversary
Celebration:
September 26.2026
Father's Day 2023
This year was not an ordinary Father's Day...
The life-changing journey of one St. Louis man's quest to find his father.
National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
Celebrating all September long..
Be
informed.
Sign up for the
Survivors Newsletter.
Survivors Newsletter
Stay updated with news and information you can use. The monthly SURVIVORS newsletter: insightful, encouraging, lively, entertaining and relevant. Packed with articles, photos, video links, prostate health data and more.
Visit our Newsletter page for our current edition, or to enjoy any of our archived editions.
STL Argus News link: https://stlargusnews.com/spetember-is-national-prostate-cancer-awareness-month/
Hours of Operation
Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Saturday: By Appointment Only
Sunday: Closed
The Empowerment Network, Inc
6000 West Florissant Ave
St. Louis, MO 63136
314.385.0998
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