A story of early detection and a renewed commitment to health
Nery Pérez, originally from the Dominican Republic, attended a UNETE Foundation prevention event without experiencing any symptoms that would have indicated a health concern.
As part of the preventive services offered, Nery received a PSA test to assess his prostate health. The results revealed an abnormality that required further medical evaluation and follow-up.
Nery continued with additional testing and medical consultations and was subsequently diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer.
“I didn’t feel anything. I never felt anything. I thought I didn’t have anything,” he recalls when reflecting on the moment he learned that something was happening within his body.
Following the detection of the abnormality and the appropriate medical follow-up, Nery was able to access the specialized care he needed. After completing the necessary evaluations, he underwent surgery, with a successful outcome.
Today, Nery shares his experience with a clear purpose: to encourage other men to take an active role in protecting their health.
A Call to Prevention
Nery’s experience highlights an important reality: the absence of symptoms does not always mean the absence of disease.
For this reason, he encourages men who may be reluctant to seek routine medical care not to postpone their health screenings.
“To all those men who don’t like to monitor themselves, who don’t like to get checked—get checked. It is important, very important.”
For Nery, having access to preventive services and health information was an important step toward understanding the value of monitoring his health before symptoms appeared.
The Mission of UNETE Foundation
At UNETE Foundation, we believe that prevention and early detection can create opportunities for individuals to receive timely medical care.
Nery’s story reflects the purpose of our work: bringing preventive health services, information, and guidance closer to individuals who face barriers to accessing healthcare.
Every prevention event represents an opportunity to identify health concerns early, provide meaningful guidance, and connect members of our community with the healthcare resources they need.
Nery arrived at a prevention event feeling well.
A routine screening helped identify an abnormality that required attention.
Today, after receiving treatment, he shares his experience to remind others that caring for your health should not begin only when symptoms appear.
Prevention begins before that.
And for Nery, taking that step early made a difference.
“I tell all men who still don’t feel anything: get tested, visit your doctor, and get your exams.”
Written by Maia Goldman
