Unlike normal blog posts dealing with elections, ethics, consequences, and - my theme as a professional motivational speaker - it seemed appropriate today to talk about my full recovery from prostate cancer hoping that it might help others who face with decisions on prostate cancer treatment.
Discovering I had prostate cancer at the age of 47 is almost random and certainly not something that is in any way I expected. I had no symptoms - none whatever. In layman's terms, everything seemed to work. So the discovery of prostate cancer was quite accidental. It seems that I went to my doctor simply looking for a pill (propecia - a drug to reduce hair loss). It requires I have a blood test, as this drug will have an effect on my PSA. Frankly, all that is Greek to me ... because I did not know what PSA is and have never had to check it out. I hated needles - has always said that I was allergic to them - hence I avoided being stuck as much as I could. But on this day in November of 2004 I decided to take the plunge - have my blood checked -. and get prescription
Two days later I got a call while out of town saying that all the lab work was fine, except that my PSA was slightly elevated - it was 4.58, and for someone my age who was high. My doctor referred me to a urologist. appointment was made.
Of course I had some concerns, but after all, all the water seems to work fine, and I had no symptoms, so it certainly was not the problem. Urologist's exam was routine - in fact, he said he thought I had nothing to worry about as he felt nothing abnormal. But be on the safe side of the biopsy schedule. Since the fear of needles (and a biopsy is the ultimate needle) I asked if it would hurt. His answer: "Most people really do not feel a thing." That's a lie! Looking back, I would have asked for good drugs like it was the most painful experience I can remember.
A few days after I got the biopsy results. Prostate Cancer! I had a Gleason score of 6 and 30% of one of my prostate was cancerous. My heart sank as I received the news. How could I, 47 years old healthy male with no other medical problems have prostate cancer? And, how amazing that was caught by a simple test that we are well versed female doctor is required. Looking back, her diligence saved my life.
What's next?
My local doctor wanted to schedule surgery immediately. He said I had four options: (1) Radical prostotectemy (traditional surgery), (2) radiation, (3) Hormonal therapy and / or (4) Watch and wait. Again, he recommended surgery. My immediate question is how many operations he was suggesting did a week or a month. number was low. In the back of my mind I thought, "Hum, maybe I need someone who is not so surgery happy and who's removal is often delicate." I was like learning to play golf - I'd rather learn from someone who plays daily than learn from a weekend hacker. Maybe it seems harsh analogy, but after all the decisions will have lasting and profound effects.
After meeting with the urologist, and after telling my family (who thought I was joking), I spent some time in research. The first thing I found - based on my diagnosis - I had time to consider my options. Not that nothing should be done, but I have to rush into any hasty decisions. Prostate cancer generally is slow to progress. CAUTION - do not use my experience as a crutch to avoid treatment (I witnessed my father-in-law die from complications of prostate cancer), and, seek competent medical help in making your decision about treatment
.options to consider:
Watch and wait. So for a few months ago I did just that. I researched - changed my diet - considered the possibility that I could reverse what existed and even reduce cancer. I began a regiment daily intake of cheese and linseed oil. For a short time I actually saw a decline in my PSA, however, is short lived. What I learned is that nutrition is important - not only for general well-being - but an effective tool in promoting cancer free body. This is valuable time that you gave me the opportunity to consider all my options.
radiation. Not really for me. While I talked with a man in his late 60's to early 70's who had outstanding results using focused radiation (proton therapy, I think it was called), the reality is - once you opt for radiation and tissue is destroyed, if prostate cancer returns, it can not be surgically removed. Therefore, the best advice I got was, in my case, it would not be practical options. By the way information on proton therapy can be found on or in. I talked with people who have used this treatment are extremely pleased with the level of care they received and the overall outcome.
High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU). In my quest for the right treatment, I spent much time considering this alternative. There were three practical objectives I wished to achieve with any treatment I selected: (1) Cancer elimination, (2) Minimal issues with incontinence (preferably none) and (3) minimal issues with erectile function (again, preferably none) . Based on my Gleason score and prostate cancer diagnosis, it seemed that this treatment will be feasible. For research information visit. As part of my review I met with Dr. George Suarez, medical director for USHifu. He reviewed my medical background and was kind in taking time to discuss with me my options using this new prostate cancer treatment. Dr. Suarez took the time to explain all your options and how, if I elected, HIFU could be effective while meeting my three goals. My only resistance was, at that time, it is not an option is not yet approved by the FDA in the U.S., would therefore have to seek treatment outside the scope of my medical insurance outside the country. While I gave this serious consideration, I finally decided to go another way.
radical prostatectomy. All the features above, brought me back to the original proposal - surgery. problem I had was kind and who will perform. Since I had time to research I discovered (through the wonder of the internet), then, a new procedure called a robotic support for radical prostatectomy. Hum ... It seemed to need more study. Of course, at that time, Johns Hopkins Brady Urological Institute is recognized as one of the best in the world for prostate cancer research and studies. After careful consideration I contacted Johns Hopkins inquiring about this seemingly new procedure - using the daVinci Surgical System.
People at Johns Hopkins could not be more care and help as I have sought all my treatment options. Sure, they have reviewed my file carefully and spent all the time I wanted and needed to evaluate my options. Dr. Li-Ming Su was my surgeon and my hat off to him and his skill and patience. Finally, one thing is clear - all other options are equal - surgical removal is still the "gold standard" in the fight against prostate cancer. Also, it appeared that this robotic laparoscopic radical prostatectomy help satisfy my three goals.
surgery is right - of course I do not remember a thing - so all I can based on what the doctor report. Initially the report indicated that the cancer was contained in the prostate and the removal should yield me "cancer free." Of course, this is supposed to be confirmed later by laboratory findings. The first few days after surgery was not pleasant, but tolerable. Within three days, I boarded a plane and flew home to North Carolina - travel was not a big problem. most annoying as after surgery was the catheter - which remained in the three weeks
.outcome. Within four weeks following surgery I boarded a plane to Dallas, TX to start a new job. My energy level is back and I had minimal incontinence isses with subsided within another three weeks. Within seven weeks of the surgery incontinence was not a problem. Erecticle function returns within three months (with drugs) and returned to full function (without medication) within twelve months.
Now it was two years of operation, and all three objectives were achieved. Life is normal. I'm cancer free. My sincere thanks to all who were there for me as I sought treatment that is right for me. I would not have the opportunity to act as a motivational speaker today, if there were no skills and help fine people at Johns Hopkins. While printing such personal items for all to read may seem (to some) out there! I feel that, perhaps, others who are diagnosed with prostate cancer can learn from my experiences. If you find this useful, but still need to talk - please visit my website: and contact me through that portal. I'll be happy to talk with you via e-mail or phone.
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