Arthur Bendolph Jr.
Veteran. Leader. Survivor. Advocate.
Arthur Bendolph Jr. is a decorated Gulf War veteran, prostate cancer survivor, nonprofit founder, and men’s health advocate who transformed one of the most difficult chapters of his life into a mission to help save the lives of other
As the founder and president of ACCCOLPH Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and the creator of the DeFeat Cancer® initiative, Arthur is committed to breaking the silence surrounding prostate cancer through awareness, education, advocacy, early detection, and survivor support.
A Family History Hidden in Silence
For Arthur, prostate cancer was more than a diagnosis. It was part of a family history rarely discussed and largely hidden in silence.
His grandfather, father, and uncle all lost their lives to prostate cancer. Yet the disease, its risks, and what that history could mean for future generations were seldom discussed.
Arthur witnessed what prostate cancer could take from a family, never imagining that one day he would hear the same life-changing words:
“You have prostate cancer.”
Arthur had faced danger and uncertainty during his military service, but cancer presented a different kind of battle. The enemy was no longer on foreign soil. It was inside his own body.
Diagnosed during the COVID-19 pandemic, Arthur was forced to confront his mortality, his family history, and the consequences of conversations left unspoken.
Fear became resolve. Silence became action.
He urged his brothers and other men in his family to get tested. When two of his brothers were also diagnosed, his purpose became clear. This was no longer only about his own survival. It was about breaking a generational cycle and helping other families have the conversations his family never had.
From Survivor to Advocate
Arthur chose proton therapy at the UF Health Proton Therapy Institute and completed treatment with minimal side effects.
Now approaching five years cancer-free, Arthur views survivorship not simply as a milestone, but as a responsibility.
He emerged from treatment determined to use his second chance to reach others:
Go back. Speak up. Reach others. Save lives.
That conviction became the foundation for ACCCOLPH Inc. and DeFeat Cancer®—a mission dedicated to turning awareness into action by encouraging conversations about prostate health, promoting screening and early detection, and connecting individuals and families with education and support.
Arthur is especially passionate about reaching African American men, who face significant disparities in prostate cancer incidence and mortality. He speaks openly about family history, fear, stigma, screening, treatment, and survivorship—the conversations that too often happen too late or not at all.
His message is direct:
Know your risk. Know your family history. Know your PSA. Speak up. Get checked.
Knowledge creates choices. Early detection creates opportunities. And action can save lives.
A Lifetime of Service and Leadership
Arthur’s commitment to serving others began long before cancer entered his life.
During his distinguished career in the United States Air Force, Arthur served during the Gulf War and received numerous military honors, including four Air Force Meritorious Service Medals, the Air and Space Commendation Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal with one device, among other recognitions.
Beyond his military service, Arthur established the City of Jacksonville Leadership Training Academy, served as director of human resources at a historically Black college or university (HBCU), and dedicated his career to developing leaders and strengthening communities.
The courage, discipline, leadership, and perseverance he developed through military service continue to guide his advocacy today.
Arthur holds six college degrees, including a Master of Business Administration (MBA), and has completed doctoral coursework toward a Ph.D. His lifelong commitment to learning reflects his belief that education is most meaningful when used in service to others:
Knowledge becomes most powerful when it is used to serve others.
His military service, professional leadership, survivor journey, and advocacy have been featured on platforms including the National Cancer Survivors Day® Speakers Bureau, the 5 Minute Salute Veteran Spotlight, podcasts, interviews, and video programs.
Turning Pain Into Purpose
Through DeFeat Cancer®, Arthur leads awareness initiatives, educational outreach, community programs, and support efforts designed to meet people where they are.
At the heart of his work is a deeply personal commitment:
His family’s silence will not become another family’s story.
Arthur believes painful experiences do not have to be wasted. They can become knowledge for someone searching for answers, encouragement for someone facing fear, and hope for someone beginning a cancer journey.
For Arthur, approaching five years cancer-free is more than a celebration of survival. It is proof of why early detection matters and a reminder of the work still ahead.
His journey has taught him that hope is not passive:
Hope speaks. Hope acts. Hope reaches back.
Advocacy is hope in motion.
Arthur will continue using his story and his voice to challenge silence, encourage screening, support families, and remind men that taking charge of their health is an act of strength.
He stands because he has witnessed what silence can cost.
He speaks because he knows what awareness can save.
He advocates because every man deserves a fighting chance.
This is why he stands.
This is why he speaks.
This is why he DeFeats Cancer®.
