by Kiernan Mehan | Mar 23, 2026
Dan Gifford, a father of 3 adult children and grandfather to 6, retired from the Air Force after 30 years, and from government service after 15 additional years. After being diagnosed with prostate cancer in March of 2025 and leaning toward Active Surveillance against the advice of his urologist, he discovered AnCan with the help of “Captain Jim”, where his decision was supported and reinforced by the group.
Dan has wide-ranging interests and activities. A life-long student, he recently earned his doctorate in Education and is applying that in his church, helping men grow in their relationship with the Lord. He is also an avid runner, bicyclist, and hiker. Having hiked several portions of the Appalachian Trail, a solo through hike is on his bucket list, hopefully to be completed in the not-too-distant future.
by Kiernan Mehan | Mar 20, 2026
Following the diagnosis of her partner, Charlton Jahn, with pancreatic cancer in 2022, Marianne Smead became his devoted advocate. Today, she is dedicated to raising their son, William, in a way that keeps Charlie’s spirit and legacy alive. A lover of live music and quality time with friends and family, Marianne remains deeply grateful for the community that carried her through her most difficult chapter.
by Kiernan Mehan | Mar 20, 2026
Captain Jim Marshall is a retired Air Force Computer Scientist, retired US Gov’t Systems Software Engineer, and 100% Disabled Veteran due to Stage IV Prostate Cancer (PC) diagnosed in 2017. This led him to a life of volunteer work promoting and understanding PC Testing, available Veteran Affairs Benefits/Healthcare, Military Benefits/Healthcare, Federal government Benefits/Healthcare available to Veterans, and how they can intersect.
He is a graduate of the University of Florida, Major – B.S. in Mathematics, Minor – Chemistry in 1967, serving 23 years in the USAF, 22 years as a Federal civilian, understanding how government works, especially in the area of claim adjudication processes. He is also certified in Information Technology, Financial Management, and Accounting.
by Kiernan Mehan | Mar 13, 2026
Boykin Jordan moderates for the Low/Intermediate Prostate Cancer group, the Veterans Speaking Freely group, and the Creative Writing group. Boykin is an entrepreneur and veteran. His hobbies are writing, Python, photography, and travel.
by Kiernan Mehan | Mar 13, 2026
Michael Williams, 71, is a dedicated Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in Occupational Clinics, Urgent Care, and Emergency Medicine. Originally from Bozeman, Montana, Michael now calls Rapid City, South Dakota, home.
After being diagnosed with prostate cancer in January 2021, Michael opted for Active Surveillance. When his diagnosis was upgraded in 2024, he remained committed to a conservative approach and sought a urologist who supported alternatives to immediate radical treatment. This journey led him to the Ancan Groups, where he found invaluable support and information. Today, Michael is a regular participant in Ancan meetings, offering his unique perspective as both a medical professional and a patient to help others navigate their own paths.
As a father to two young adults, ages 19 and 21, Michael prioritizes a healthy, active lifestyle. When he isn’t exercising or working, he enjoys hitting the open road in his truck and camper.
