2nd Annual Community Conversations Event

On April 5, 2025, Michigan Medicine and the Weiser Center for Prostate Cancer teamed up with the Ypsilanti community for a vibrant morning of connection and conversation at Messias Temple.

Over a hearty community health breakfast, voices from all walks of life came together for a powerful discussion on prostate cancer and colon cancer. Patient advocates shared their personal journeys, while financial counselor Anna Rollan offered practical support and resources.

Expert insights were provided by Kristian Black, M.D., M.S., urology chief resident; Calista Harbaugh, M.D., M.Sc., assistant professor of surgery; and Michelle Riba, M.D., professor of psychiatry. The speakers addressed important topics including access to care, screening, treatment options, survivorship and common cancer myths. Audience members were deeply engaged, sparking thoughtful dialogue with both providers and cancer survivors.

Urology Interest Group students provided blood pressure screenings for the community.

This event marked the second annual “Community Conversations” series, supported by the Weiser Center for Prostate Cancer and the Department of Urology. Event partners included Hope Clinic and the University of Michigan Health Ypsilanti Health Center, which opens in fall 2025. Another Community Conversations event will be planned for spring 2026.