THERE WAS NO RESPONSE TO AN UPDATE REMINDER IN 2015 SO THERE IS NO UPDATE.

I was taking cholesterol medication so my family doctor did regular blood work. For the last two blood work ups he ordered a PSA. Mine was 3.1, then 6 months later was 3.5.

The doctor had concerns because the score was high for my age and sent me to a urologist. DRE (Digital Rectal Examination) did not find any thing unusual, but due to PSA suggested a biopsy. Had the biopsy. What fun...Discovered cancer in one area, Gleason score is 6 (3+3). Now on the journey to determine the right treatment and right doctor.

Leaning toward Da Vinci surgery. Second opinion doctor visit scheduled for July 1, 2010. Wife has been very supportive. Can't imagine going through this alone or without supportive wife. Praying for healing, wisdom, and direction. My main concern at this point is the side effects of treatment. Already grieving a bit.

Later: Having many second thoughts about Da Vinci. Going to visit with Proton Therapy doctors at MD Anderson in July.

After going to a multi-disciplinary program at MD Anderson (Met with surgeons and radiologists) I confirmed my original decision. Da Vinci Robotic Surgery with Dr. Slawin at Hermann Memorial.

Had the surgery one week ago today. Spent one night in the hospital. Catheter remained for one week. Catheter is the most uncomfortable part of the whole experience. So glad to get it out. So far I am almost entirely continent.

I'm weak. Have another week to go before I'm released to drive. The doctor said that my procedure went textbook perfect. Nerve sparing went fine according to doctor. I'm optimistic.

Grateful to God, family, church, and friends and especially my wife. She has really taken care of me. This has ended up drawing closer than ever.

It's been nine months since my surgery (DaVinci Prostatectomy). Dr. Kevin Slawin of Herman Hospital in Houston did the surgery. He's done more than 1,000. I am very pleased.

One week with the catheter was the most difficult. After a week fully continent.

After several months bedroom skills are just fine. Not what it used to be but sufficient. Better at nine months than six months. Occasional use of Cialis 5 mg.

No regrets from the choice of treatment. Seldom mindful that I'm a "cancer survivor." Grateful to God and to my wife.

Currently using daily 2.5 mg Cialis. Previous issues with ED are completly gone.

Seldom mindful of having cancer. Very pleased with the results of the Da Vinci surgery. Cialis 2.5 mg daily will probably always be used.

Doing well. Had DaVinci surgery and have no regrets.

V J's e-mail address is: velder AT cbunited.com (replace "AT" with "@")

NOTE: V J has not updated his story for more than 15 months, so you may not receive any response from him.