“I Never Thought It Could Be Me”
If you had told me a few years ago that I’d be sharing my story about having breast cancer, I would’ve laughed. Not out of disrespect — just disbelief. Because like most men, I didn’t think breast cancer had anything to do with me.
It all started one night when my wife, Kisha, and I were lying in bed talking. She reached over and felt a knot on my chest. I hadn’t felt it before. She immediately said, “You need to get that checked.” I brushed it off at first, thinking it was nothing. But Kisha wasn’t letting it go, and thank God she didn’t.
At my next doctor’s appointment, I mentioned it to my primary care physician. She ordered a mammogram, and from there, everything began to move — SLOWLY. Appointments, scans, and tests came with what felt like an eternity of waiting. When the results came back, I heard words I never expected: “You have breast cancer.”
I can’t explain the shock that comes with hearing something like that. I remember thinking, this can’t be real — I’m a man. I didn’t know any other man who had gone through it. But there I was, facing something I thought only happened to women.
Through it all, my wife was my anchor. She prayed with me, researched, encouraged, and never let me fall apart, even when I wanted to. Treatment was tough — physically, emotionally, and mentally. But so was I. Faith carried us both.
Today, I can say I’m cancer-free. Those words are a blessing I don’t take lightly. I’m grateful every day that Kisha spoke up that night because it saved my life.
Now, I share my story because men need to hear it from another man. Cancer doesn’t care who you are — so be aware. Don’t ignore the signs. Don’t let pride or embarrassment keep you from getting checked.
If something feels off, say something. If someone you love notices something, listen. Early detection isn’t just a phrase — it’s the difference between life and loss.
My name is Salcion Riley, and I’m one of the few — but growing — number of men who’ve faced breast cancer and lived to tell it. I fight every day to make sure more men know the truth:
Cancer Doesn’t Care; Be Aware.