NASCAR’s Memorial Day weekend just got a whole lot more meaningful.
Two drivers are using their platforms to expose a hidden crisis affecting America’s heroes.
And NASCAR drivers dropped one bombshell about veterans that has Joe Biden taking notice.
Veterans face a deadly enemy that’s twice as dangerous
This Memorial Day weekend, NASCAR drivers Josh Bilicki and JJ Yeley aren’t just racing for trophies.
They’re racing to save lives.
The two drivers are teaming up with ZERO Prostate Cancer and AstraZeneca to shine a spotlight on a devastating reality that most Americans don’t know about.
The statistics are staggering – veterans face double the risk of getting this disease.
Let that sink in for a moment.
The men who fought to protect our freedom are facing an enemy at home that’s attacking them at double the rate.
“Prostate cancer has become too big to ignore,” said Courtney Bugler, President and CEO of ZERO Prostate Cancer. “There are more than 3 million men living with prostate cancer. This year alone, over 300,000 men will be diagnosed, and more than 35,000 will die from the disease.”
The timing couldn’t be more urgent.
Former President Joe Biden’s recent prostate cancer diagnosis has thrust this disease into the national spotlight.
But for veterans, this has been a silent battle raging for years.
The numbers tell a chilling story
The disease claims a man’s life every quarter hour in America.
Prostate cancer affects 1 in 8 men across the United States.
But veterans get hit even harder.
They face double the risk of being diagnosed with this killer disease.
“Memorial Day weekend is a powerful moment to elevate the conversation around Veterans’ health,” said Daniele Paone, VP US, GYN/GU Cancer Franchise at AstraZeneca. “Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer among U.S. Veterans, which is why early detection and access to quality care is critical.”
This cancer ranks as the number two killer among cancer deaths for men nationwide.
For veterans who already sacrificed so much for their country, this is adding insult to injury.
The heroes who defended our nation are now fighting a war they didn’t sign up for.
NASCAR puts veterans first during patriotic weekend
Bilicki will drive the No. 66 Ford Mustang in Sunday’s Coca-Cola 600 NASCAR Cup Series race on Amazon Prime.
Yeley will pilot the No. 53 Chevrolet Camaro in Saturday’s BetMGM 300 NASCAR Xfinity Series race on The CW Network.
Both cars will feature custom ZERO-themed paint schemes designed to raise awareness about prostate cancer.
The partnership comes during NASCAR Salutes, the sport’s annual tribute to America’s fallen heroes.
“This weekend isn’t just about racing—it’s about saving lives,” Bilicki explained. “President Biden’s diagnosis has put prostate cancer in the spotlight, and we’re here to keep it there. If one more man gets tested because of this, we’ve already made a difference.”
Yeley, who is 48 years old, understands the personal nature of this fight.
“As a 48-year-old man and part of a sport that’s deeply tied to the Veteran community, this message hits home,” Yeley stated. “Veterans are more likely to face this disease, and early detection is key. If we can help even one person take that step, every lap will be worth it.”
Simple test could save thousands of lives
The solution isn’t complicated.
A simple PSA blood test can mean the difference between life and death.
But too many men, especially veterans, aren’t getting screened.
ZERO Prostate Cancer has launched an ambitious initiative to save 100,000 lives by 2035.
They’re focusing on expanding education, outreach, and improved access to quality care for veterans, Black men, and rural communities.
These are the groups hit hardest by prostate cancer.
“We must break down the barriers to early detection, especially for Veterans and others who face higher risks. This Memorial Day, we race not just to remember—but to save lives,” Bugler emphasized.
For nearly 30 years, ZERO has been fighting this battle as the nation’s largest prostate cancer organization.
They’ve supported millions of people who are at-risk or diagnosed, along with their families.
A call to action that can’t wait
“We’re proud to join ZERO Prostate Cancer and NASCAR to raise awareness among veterans and all men at risk. It’s part of our bold ambition to one day eliminate cancer as a cause of death,” Paone added.
The races this weekend will feature garage activations, VIP guests, and coordinated media coverage.
But the real victory will be measured in lives saved.
“ZERO is equally proud to stand with AstraZeneca, Josh, JJ, the entire Veteran community, and racing fans across the world this Memorial Day to remind every man to talk to their doctor, know their risk, and get screened,” Bugler concluded.
“A Simple PSA Blood test can mean the difference between life and death because prostate cancer doesn’t discriminate—but together, we can beat it.”
Veterans have already given so much for our country.
They shouldn’t have to face this fight alone.
