Prostate Cancer - Sharing my story in hopes others will listen and take action..
I've shared this story a couple of times and often I have second thoughts about sharing the story again.
But if my sharing it here can save ONE life, it's worth it., this issue is too important to stay silent about, so I want to raise awareness.
In November 2018, I was diagnosed with stage T2b intermediate prostate cancer. To make matters worse, it was an aggressive form genetically meaning there was a high likelihood of metastasis if I didn't take action.
Hearing the doctor deliver this news was devastating. I was stunned, caught off guard, and I broke down. Given the context of the preceding 18 months, it felt like a knockout blow:
* My mother passed away in June 2017.
* My father passed away in April 2018.
* My uncle (my mom's older brother) passed away in August 2018.
With all the grief I'd been dealing with, my first thought upon receiving the diagnosis was, "Am I next?"
Reflecting on it, I realized I experienced a microcosm of the stages of grief. I initially tried to deny the diagnosis, but there it was, staring me in the face. I got angry and sought a second opinion, hoping the first doctor was wrong. But the facts were undeniable. Facts don't care about your fears. As anyone close to me can tell you, I became deeply depressed. I was no fun to be around during the holidays. But then I realized that wallowing in fear and sadness was hurting me and those around me. I was still scared, but I knew I had to take action.
My wife was instrumental in helping me through this difficult time. I couldn’t have done it without her.
In the weeks following my diagnosis, I consulted with my urologist to devise a plan of action. He strongly recommended surgery over radiation. After doing some research, I understood why: given the aggressive nature of my cancer, radiation would leave a lingering uncertainty about recurrence. And if the cancer returned, I would have no options left. Despite the fear, surgery was the best option. I had to keep reminding myself of one thing:
I was going to have the final word on this cancer. I was determined to remove it by any means necessary and move on with my life. Was I still scared? Absolutely. But the sooner I got treatment, the better.
My urologist referred me to Swedish Urology for treatment, saying, "I'm good, but they're better, and I think you need to see them for treatment." More blood tests and planning ensued throughout December. In January, I met with my surgeon and got on the schedule.
A few months later, I underwent surgery to remove the cancer. If you're curious about the procedure, look up "da Vinci robotic surgery" online. My wife and I had to drive through the final (and worst) snow of the year on the day of the surgery, but everything went as planned. My wife stayed with me during pre-op, chatting with the anesthesiologist and nurses while they completed the final checklists. I wasn't too nervous at first, but seeing her walk away to the waiting area made everything suddenly real. In hindsight, I probably should have taken the valium they offered.
The surgery went well overall, despite a few hiccups that extended my hospital stay by a night. The pain was intense; Oxycodone helped, but I didn't enjoy the hallucinations it caused (like letters on the dry erase board melting down the board), so I minimized its use.
My wife never left my side, sleeping on an uncomfortable cot next to me. She's incredibly strong and courageous. Maybe I should get her something special for her birthday... perhaps those diamonds she was eyeing the other day.
A week later I had my first follow-up and reviewed the final pathology report. The results were good: no metastasis. I was still sore and recovering, but getting better every day. Was I out of the woods yet? Mostly, yes. There's some concern that some cancer cells might have been left behind. The cancer had advanced between my initial biopsy and final pathology report, from a Gleason score of 4+3=7 to 4+5=9. Opting for surgery was the right call. If follow-up radiation is ever needed, it will be minimal and focused.
So why am I sharing all of this? It's not about seeking attention. I'm sharing this to shake a few people out of complacency. If you're reading this and have concerns, don't ignore them. Looking back, I realize there were warning signs I dismissed as mere aging. Those ads on TV promising miracle supplements? Ignore them. They should be against the law...! They almost cost me dearly. Ask yourself:
* Are you over 40?
* Do you have a family history of reproductive or pancreatic cancers?
* Have you noticed any changes or discomfort when sitting, using the restroom, or riding a bicycle?
* Any unusual discharge in your underwear?
If you answered 'yes' to any of these, see a doctor. Go now. Get a PSA test. If your doctor dismisses the need for it, ***find another doctor***. PSA tests do work. My PSA was only 7 (normal is 1 to 4), and my first urologist didn't think they would find anything. But here I am, post-prostatectomy. PSA tests are easy: a simple blood draw, and the results come back in a few days. If it's below 4, check it again in six months to ensure it hasn't risen. And if you're over 50, definitely get a direct exam.
Did you know the percentage of males with prostate cancer increases linearly with age? It does: 30% of males in their 30s have prostate cancer, 40% in their 40s, and so on. Recent studies have found this, and urologists are taking these findings seriously. Ignoring early warning signs is not worth your life.
Ignore those TV ads for miracle supplements. They’re a dangerous distraction. Many contain Saw Palmetto, which can suppress PSA levels and create a false sense of security. Instead of relying on these supplements, see a doctor.
Go get checked. Talk to a doctor. Do it now.
Finally, I want to thank my wife. I know this has been tough, but I'm glad you're here. I couldn't have done this without you. I love you.
