Former Phoebe Community Benefits Director, Darrell Sabbs was recently recognized by ZERO Prostate Cancer, a national nonprofit with the mission to end prostate cancer, at their fifth annual Bold for Blue Awards ceremony with the Early Detection Impact Award. The ceremony, which was held in Maryland, recognized passionate and dedicated companies, men, women and families who have made a bold impact in the fight against prostate cancer.

“It is an honor to receive this award. This award recognizes the trusted partnership between churches, health systems and academics. When we are intentional about what we are doing and combine our efforts, we win,” said Sabbs.

For more than 25 years, Sabbs has been a strong advocate for men’s health, but his work over the last two years earned him the Early Detection Impact Award from ZERO Prostate Cancer. In 2022, he led multiple community-based prostate cancer efforts in southwest Georgia through a partnership with Phoebe and Black churches throughout the area, to educate and test men who live in rural areas in Georgia. Sabbs organized and hosted five prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing events, including Phoebe’s annual men’s health fair, where men were able to receive free health screenings and educational materials.

In addition to his community-based efforts, Sabbs also led advocacy efforts at the Georgia Capitol on behalf of prostate cancer patients in the Georgia community to make an immediate impact in helping men with insurance and medical expenses. After more than 23 years of serving in full-time positions, Sabbs transitioned to a part-time role last year.

“The 2023 Bold for Blue winners have all gone to great lengths to improve the lives of the many patients and families facing prostate cancer,” said ZERO’s President and CEO, Jamie Bearse. “Their efforts have raised critical funds, awareness, increased research funding, and helped prostate cancer patients get the support and information they need. We can’t ZERO out prostate cancer without their hard work and dedication.” 

The Bold for Blue Awards is the only national awards program that recognizes prostate cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers for their efforts in fundraising, advocacy, and community impact. This year’s ceremony featured the Legacy Awards, Impact Awards, Cesar Blevins Warrior Awards, Hope Award, Megaphone Award, Years of Service Award, Prostate Cancer Awareness Month Impact Award, Health Equity Advocacy Award, Health Equity Individual Award, Health Equity Lifetime Service Award, Health Equity Organizational Award, 2022 Prostate Cancer Veterans Advocacy Award, and Top Fundraisers Award.