Zac Yarbrough | Warrior Wednesday Stories

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The photo shows our Warrior Wednesday spotlight, Zac Yarbrough, on a boat in the ocean holding two fish he just caught. He looks very happy. The picture is made to look like a polaroid picture.

When most people think of breast cancer, they think of how it affects women. Some people aren’t even aware that men can develop breast cancer. In fact, less than 1% of all breast cancers occur in men. While breast cancer in men is uncommon it still happens, and that’s why this Warrior Wednesday we’re turning the spotlight towards Zac Yarbrough.

OSF: Tell us your personal story.

A: I was diagnosed with late-stage Invasive Ductal Carcinoma on July 11, 2019. I found a lump in my left breast swimming or in the shower one day. Not knowing about male breast cancer, I didn’t think much about it for a few months before it began to grow at a rapid pace. At that time, I went into my Doctor for a check-up which led to a mammogram that day, biopsy the next, and a radical mastectomy a week later.

OSF: How old were you when you were diagnosed?

A: 38

OSF: What stage were you diagnosed with?

A: Late Stage 3

OSF: What did your support system look like?

A: Amazing with family, friends, work, and blessed.

OSF: What’s your best advice for anyone currently fighting cancer?

A: Every day is a good day. With so much negativity going on in this world it’s important to concentrate on the positive things in life. SO much is out of our control and our attitude is everything fighting cancer. Live, love, and appreciate every single day.

OSF: What was the biggest obstacle you had to overcome?

A: Being a male diagnosed with Breast Cancer.

OSF: What does the Cure Bowl mean to you?

A: Being a former College Football player and participating in 4 different bowl games it’s great to see a Bowl Game that focuses on giving back and making a difference. Thankful to have the opportunity to help and spread awareness and knowledge about this disease, especially now with men.

OSF: Anything else you’d like to add?

A: I’m not ashamed and happy to tell my story to help others. I could go on for days!

Thank you to Zac Yarbrough for sharing his story with us!

Thank you to Dr. Phillips Charities for sponsoring our Warrior Wednesday program. 

If you or a loved one have been affected by cancer and would like to share your story, please fill out this form to be considered for our next Warrior Wednesday spotlight.

You can find out more about our Warrior Program here.

Our Warrior Wednesday spotlight, Zac Yarbrough, shows off his scars on his chest.
Our Warrior Wednesday spotlight, Zac Yarbrough, poses with hospital staff as he rings a white bell after one of his chemo treatments.