THERE WAS NO RESPONSE TO AN UPDATE REMINDER IN 2010 SO THERE IS NO UPDATE.
My father was diagnosed 3 months earlier than I was....which prompted me to get my PSA checked. My PSA wasn't all that bad, 2.4. I work in the Urology arena as a medical device rep and knew something was wrong.
My urologist decided to test the free PSA, which came back as 10%...shouldn't be lower than 25%. I immediately suspected something needed to be done. We did the biopsy expecting to find nothing. However, the next day I received the phone call and was confirmed that I had prostate cancer....at age 39. My Gleason was 7 (3+4).
My reaction was "get it out".. now! Fortunately, I knew who's hands I wanted to place my prostate in. I just scheduled my surgery after a second consultation. I go in for the robotic prostatectomy on March 17th.
I have hope, faith and I'm expecting miracles. This too shall pass. My prayers to all of us who are experiencing this dark chapter in our life. Stay strong and love often!
It's been 4 months since my robotic prostatectomy and my recent PSA came back 0 and undetectable! Thrilled things went as well as they have.
I'm one of the very lucky ones who has not suffered from incontinence. The catheter was pulled after seven days from surgery and I was continent. A hand full of small issues, but never used a pad and no issues now.
ED is resolved with Cialis and no other issues.
I attribute it all to early detection and a fantastic surgeon, Dr. Peter Fisher in Salt Lake City UT. He saved my life and was very mindful of life style after my surgery. I did do the Kegel strengthening every day without fail prior to surgery and I know that helped with the quick bladder recovery.
I can't stress enough the need to do your homework on selecting a physician and skilled surgeon who has your best interests in mind. Early detection prolonged my life. Please let us tell our friends and loved ones to get checked early so they can avoid this scary scenario later in life.
A few personal suggestions:
1. Include your spouse or loved ones in the decision making process, my wife has been tremendous and the rock during emotional times.
2. Establish a personal relationship with your surgeon and ask any and all questions.
3. Reach out to survivors, the strength and stories from others gives me tremendous hope.
Many thanks to those who helped me through my fight.
Please feel free to contact me at any time with questions or thoughts.
