When I was diagnosed with prostate cancer at thirty-five, one of the six urologists I saw urged a plant-forward diet. He told me to cut red meat and dairy and load up on cruciferous vegetables, berries, mushrooms, and wild salmon. I grew up in Texas on barbecue brisket, chicken-fried steak, Whataburger, and Mexican food like fajitas and carne asada, and I kept eating that way into adulthood. Changing long-held habits took time, which is why I encourage men to start with simple wins and add more plants. Over time I moved toward a whole-food plant-based lifestyle, and over fifteen years, I have stayed about 98 percent plant-based.

My experience with prostate cancer led me to found Blue Cure, a men’s health nonprofit organization focused on awareness, prevention, education, and support. From the beginning, Blue Cure has heavily promoted whole-food plant-based nutrition and the reasons behind it. We focus on prevention and risk reduction, supporting men on active surveillance (i.e., men with low-risk cancer who elect to closely monitor cancer progression instead of receiving immediate treatment), and improving treatment outcomes and erectile function.

We share this message through articles, infographics, and interviews. I also worked with two plant-based dietitians who developed our nutrition guide and recipes, so men and their families have practical tools. Early on I pushed for perfection. Today I meet men where they are and coach progress that sticks. Small changes become habits. Habits change lives. I still live with low-risk prostate cancer fifteen years after my diagnosis, and a recent MRI at the National Cancer Institute showed no progression. I credit diet and lifestyle while recognizing that not everything is in my control, so I stay on top of PSA tests, imaging, and follow-up visits.

Blue Cure is in its fifth year of our Men’s Health Tour (our fourth focused on Texas). We visit seven cities to promote awareness, screening, and lifestyle habits that move the needle. I put special focus on South Texas and majority-Hispanic communities, where pride and tradition can make men hesitate to seek care. Our message is direct and respectful: Get checked. Know your numbers. Take action for yourself and your family.

My advice for others trying to get projects off the ground? Lead with purpose. Show up consistently. Adapt as you learn. I started Blue Cure with conviction and a willingness to figure it out. Tell your story with honesty. Serve the audience in front of you. Momentum follows persistence, not perfection.

To learn more about Gabe Canales and Blue Cure, check out our In-Depth with the Doctors class Understanding Prostate Cancer: Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment, featuring Gabe, Dr. Adriana Cortés, and Dr. Stacy Loeb.