TAMPA, FLA. (WSVN) – Miami Heat legend Alonzo Mourning took to the stage at the 84th annual Omega Psi Phi Grand Conclave this weekend in Tampa, aiming to spread awareness about two significant health issues that have deeply impacted his life: kidney disease and prostate cancer.
Known for his fierce competitiveness over a 15-season NBA career and his Olympic gold medal, the 54-year-old Mourning has transitioned into a powerful advocate for health, particularly in the areas of kidney disease and prostate cancer.
“Take charge of your health, be proactive with your health,” Mourning urged the audience. “I’m hoping that I can save lives with this visit.”
Mourning’s promising NBA career faced a severe interruption when, during a routine checkup in 2000, he was diagnosed with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), a form of kidney disease.
“It was deflating, it truly was,” Mourning recalled. “I had minimal symptoms that I was willing to ignore, which a lot of people do.”
Adding to his health battles, Mourning had his prostate removed in March following a Stage 3 cancer diagnosis.
At the conclave, Mourning, a dedicated member of Omega Psi Phi, spoke on a panel alongside health experts. He emphasized the importance of raising awareness among his fraternity brothers, hoping to amplify the message across the nation and beyond.
“These are all my brothers. Being able to get the word out to as many of the brothers that I can helps filter this information across the country and the world,” he said.
Mourning highlighted the critical need for awareness, particularly among African Americans. “It’s devastating to know that 30 million Americans suffer from chronic kidney disease, but it’s also devastating to know that 35% of them are African American,” he said.
In a bid to further his advocacy, Mourning has launched a website in partnership with a pharmaceutical company called Power Forward. The site aims to raise awareness about kidney disease and encourage regular checkups.
Mourning’s message is clear: early detection and proactive healthcare can save lives, a mission he continues to champion both on and off the stage.
