With a 2026 focus on “More Life,” the Michigan Men’s Health Foundation is recognizing International Men’s Health Week June 15-21 with its longstanding signature events to advocate for men’s health and prostate cancer survivorship.
The events return amid a global uptick in prostate cancer diagnoses. The American Cancer Society is predicting 333,830 new cases of prostate cancer in the U.S. – a continual rise from year’s past – and 36,320 deaths. Prostate cancer is still the second leading cause of cancer death in American men. One in every 8 men will be diagnosed in their lifetime; 1 in 44 will die from prostate cancer.
The week kicks off on June 15 (known internationally as Blue Monday) with its annual cycling event Cogs & Kegs and culminates with signature Run for the Ribbon at the Detroit Zoo on Father’s Day, June 21.
Cogs & Kegs, June 15
Celebrating its 11th year, Cogs & Kegs brings cyclists together for a group ride through Metro Detroit, starting and ending at Lincoln Yard in Birmingham the evening of Monday, June 15. The event not only raises awareness for men’s health-related issues, but it also recognizes first responders and the increased health risks their careers impose.
Bike riding enthusiasts will choose between a 10-mile casual ride or a 30-mile advanced course. Riders can enjoy a post-ride meal and a beer at Lincoln Yard. Riders on both routes will be escorted by local police departments led by Bloomfield Township and the Michigan State Police.
The 30-mile ride begins at 6:30 p.m. and the 10-mile ride at 7 p.m. To join either ride, cyclists can register online. Registration for the 10-mile course is $45; same-day registration is $50.Registration for the 30-mile course is $50; same-day registration is $55. Non-riders can participate in the post-ride celebration at 8 p.m. for $30.
Run for the Ribbon Father’s Day, June 21
Men’s Health Week will culminate with the Run for the Ribbon on Sunday, June 21.
A Father’s Day tradition at the Detroit Zoo annually since 2009, the Run for the Ribbon attracts more than 1,500 survivors and supporters to run or walk each year in honor of grandfathers, dads, husbands, brothers, uncles and sons in their journey of prostate cancer survivorship. Participants can choose between a 5K run/walk or a 1-mile walk inside the zoo while enjoying the sights and sounds of the animals. The race begins at 8 a.m.
All participants should register at runfortheribbon.com. The entry fee for the 5K is $35, or $40 on race day, and covers the run, a performance shirt, a medal, refreshments and admission to the Detroit Zoo on the day of the event. The entry fee for the walk is $30 in advance or $35 day-of. Reduced pricing is available for participants age 13 and younger. A virtual option is also available for those who wish to support the Foundation and the men in their lives. All money raised will fund critical health assessments at the Men’s Health Event on September 26, 2026, at the Wayne State Fieldhouse, to screen for prostate cancer and provide other vital tests.
There are new ways this year for participants to honor a loved one’s fight with prostate cancer by placing a free Celebration sign along the route. Participants can also take their signs home with them, and even pick them up along the route and cross the finish line “holding” their loved ones. Additionally, an “Honor and Remember Your Men’s Health Hero” wall will be on display, where participants can write their loved one’s name(s) on a blue ribbon and pin it to the wall.
Age group awards will be handed out at the post-race party, which will include awards for highest individual and group fundraisers.
The mission of Run for the Ribbon is to promote the awareness, education, research and treatment of prostate cancer and men’s health related issues.
“Prostate cancer affects more than just the man who is diagnosed,” Lutz said. “His family and friends also feel the effects as they share in the worry and concern. The Michigan Men’s Health Foundation will not stop in our work to help more men earn survivor status.
”Those who register for both Cogs & Kegs and Run for the Ribbon receive a 10% discount.
The Foundation’s efforts this year are supported by Corewell Health, Meijer and Lantheus.
About Michigan Men’s Health Foundation:
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Michigan Men’s Health Foundation is dedicated to men’s health advocacy and the awareness, education, research and treatment of prostate cancer and men’s health related issues across the state. The Foundation’s signature events include the Run for the Ribbon 5k Run/Walk & Gala, established in 2008; the Men’s Health Event, introduced in 2011; Blue Monday, first held in 2015, and Cogs & Kegs, launched in 2016. The Michigan Men’s Health Foundation also manages the Blue Fund, which provides short-term assistance to prostate cancer patients during treatment to help lessen the financial burden of cancer. For more information, visit MichiganMensHealthFoundation.org. Listen to the On Call for Men’s Health podcast, hosted by Dr. Michael Lutz, urologist and president of the Michigan Men’s Health Foundation, and featuring special guest experts on issues related to men’s health and personal stories of survival.
