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July 2025
Advocate of the MonthCapt. Greg Karsner—well deserved!
When it comes to making a life-saving difference in his community, Capt. Greg Karsner doesn’t just talk the talk—he lives it. As a Nurse Practitioner, Firefighter, and DetecTogether Trainer, he is dedicated to service.
Greg surprised his wife, who is expecting their second child, and his son with a special outing to the museum premiere, where the stars of the show were none other than ‘husband' and 'Daddy’.
Greg’s commitment to his patients, fellow firefighters, and his family exemplifies the heart of DetecTogether's mission. Whether he’s in the clinic, on a call, or in front of his firefighter brothers and sisters, Greg’s passion for saving lives remains unwavering—and we are lucky to have him in our advocacy family.
Congratulations, Capt. Karsner!
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DetecTogether's Firefighter Program in the Spotlight
Gala & Golf Tournament fuels philanthropy and ongoing donations needed for firefighters
Thanks to the outpouring of generosity at DetecTogether’s Annual Gala, Auction, and Golf Tournament—headlined by Jay Leno—our 3 Steps Detect® program can continue providing firefighters more straightforward answers to spot early warning signs of cancer, take action fast, and protect their crew—starting with themselves.
With support from events like these, we’re expanding our life-saving program, designed for firefighters, with the support of firefighters. Media coverage by Spectrum News helped shine a light on how vital this work is and just how far your support can go.
“This significant fundraising achievement underscores the community's commitment to early cancer detection and the impactful work of DetecTogether in saving lives through education and advocacy.” —Spectrum News
Here’s the proof it works:
- 82% report greater confidence navigating healthcare
- 48% catching health issues early
- Two-thirds of which turn out to be cancer
These aren’t just statistics—they’re lives changed, careers saved, and families preserved. We wouldn’t exist without your support, your stories, and your efforts to spread the word.
Together, we're building a future where everyone has the lifesaving advantage of early detection.
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📱 Get our Monthly Newsletter Sent to Your Phone
Is your inbox overflowing? We get it.
We’re excited to launch mobile SMS text messaging—delivering life-saving tips, inspiring stories, and our latest monthly newsletter straight to your phone.
No more digging through emails. Just quick, valuable info to help you stay proactive about your health and in the know.
Want in?
Sign up to start getting our monthly DetecTogether newsletter in the palm of your hand—because early detection tools and vital info should be just a tap away.
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Colonoscopy vs. Stool TestWhat's the Difference?
When it comes to colorectal cancer screening, understanding the benefits and limitations can be life-saving. Whether you're considering convenience, effectiveness, or the level of preparation required, understanding the differences between a colonoscopy and a stool test helps you make an informed and confident choice.
Screening isn't one-size-fits-all, but taking that step is essential.
In our latest blog, we break it down simply so you can take charge of your health with clarity and confidence.
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"I'd Rather Fight a Raccoon Than Call My Doctor" The Human-Nature Ways We Avoid the Doctor
So why does it feel like dialing or messaging a doctor is a Herculean feat?
You're not alone. We took a look at some of the things people would rather do instead of consulting a doctor.
Click the button below to laugh, cringe, and see some of the very human ways we avoid doing what’s good for us.
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Sarcoma is Rare—Ignoring Symptoms Should Be
Rare doesn't = impossible.
Sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that originates in the bone or soft tissue—including muscles, fat, tendons, cartilage, or nerves. It often presents with subtle symptoms like those below that can be missed:
Protect yourself with 3 Steps Detect:
- Know Your Great Health
Understand how your body typically moves and feels.
- Use our 2-Week Rule
If you experience changes to your great health, like:
• Painless lumps or swelling
• Ongoing bone/joint pain
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
- Share with A Doctor
Be specific. Explain how your great health has changed. Don't let it become your new normal.
Rare doesn't = impossible. Learn MORE early detection tools and tricks that can save your life.
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July 1st was DetecTogether's Official Sweet 16 Birthday
A Message from Our Founders:
Sixteen years ago, this journey began around a kitchen table—inspired by the loss of a dear friend and a shared determination and frustration to do something that no one else was doing. We realized that too many lives were being lost because people didn’t recognize the early signs of cancer and or understand their critical role in speaking up and taking action. Annual physicals and age-based screenings are important, but they are not enough. The truth is, most cancers are first noticed by the individuals themselves.
So, we set out to change that.
Today, DetecTogether stands as a testament to what a community can achieve when united by purpose. What began as a simple idea has grown into a movement that’s educating thousands, saving lives through early cancer detection, and 3 Steps Detect® giving people the confidence and tools to survive cancer.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your support fuels our mission and brings us closer to a world where early detection is the norm—not the exception.
— Jim and Nancy Coghlin, Co-Founders, DetecTogether
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Where Great Food Meets Greater Purpose
Firehouse Cook-Off Returns to Fire Up Early Detection
📅 Tuesday, August 12, 2025
📍 Polar Park, Worcester, MA
What’s better than bold flavors, cold drinks, and firefighter bragging rights? An event that saves lives.
Join us at the 4th Annual Paragus Firehouse Cook-Off, where Worcester, MA firehouses compete head-to-head in a sizzling showdown—and you get to taste the action.
Bring your friends. Bring your appetite. And bring your support for local heroes and for empowering life-saving early detection.
Big Thanks to Paragus for supporting DetecTogether's firefighter early detection training—All proceeds benefit DetecTogether & the Worcester, MA Firefighters 6K.
Let’s turn up the heat for early detection and first responders. Hope to see you there!
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Kenneth AllenOlfactory Nerve Cancer, Diagnosed at 38
"Be your own advocate, push until you have a diagnosis and a treatment plan. Become your own hero."
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Your cancer diagnosis experience can help others detect cancer early. Consider sharing it to raise awareness and save lives.
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Our donors' generosity makes our educational programs possible. Please consider making a gift today.
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