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

In late 2008 I had a PSA test as part of a general health check. The test came back at 2.5, which was just slightly high for my age. Following guidelines my doctor referred me to a urologist, who performed a digital exam. The urologist, Dr. McClintock, found no enlargement but thought there might be a slightly hard area, and as a result recommended a biopsy, 'just to be sure'. The biopsy was found 5 from 8 samples with cancer. Getting the call was a fairly surreal experience as I was in the pub having post work drinks at the time, and given the low PSA wasn't really expecting it.

After consultation with the Doc, too much on-line research and discussions with other survivors, I opted for open radical prostatectomy as likely to provide the best outcome for someone my age.

The surgery was performed on 2nd April 2009 and went well with nerves spared on the right. I'm currently at home recovering. Things are generally going well though I've had a couple of very minor set backs:

a) I was in hospital 8 days in total, 3 days longer than planned, as my wound drain kept leaking urine.
b) my wound opened slightly after sutures (staples) were removed.

As a consequence of a) the catheter won't be removed for a few more days.

The op pathology showed cancer in 12% of the prostate (again Gleason 3+4) , with no traces in lymph modes or seminal vesicles.

I'm yet to face the continence and sexual function issues, though I'm optimistic (but realistic) about both. I'm also fortunate to have an extremely supportive and loving wife.

Whilst it has been difficult for my family and myself (I have a 12 year old daughter) overall I've been pretty positive all through the experience, though I confess to a low point, when as a result of a pretty unclear MRI, it was recommended I have a bone scan. Thankfully this was clear. Generally I just feel lucky - the initial health check wasn't planned - it was a Queensland Health initiative, and without it I'd probably be in a much worse situation at some time in the future.

I've made some minor lifestyle changes since diagnosis, cutting back (almost completely) on red meat and dairy. I'm also generally eating well. I've also increased antioxidants mainly through green tea and Dr. Red (a prostate beneficial drink available at cellar door or through pharmacies).

One thing I haven't given up yet is a beer or two with mates. It remains to be seen whether this is something I can continue (in moderation), though this is obviously a minor consideration in the scheme of things.

A year and a half on from surgery things are going well. I'm on 6 monthly PSA checks now (next in September) with my PSA currently less than zero. Couldn't be better.

Despite some minor complications the surgery was successful and I was fortunate enough to have perfect continence from the first day the catheter was removed.

Sexual function, however, continues to be something of an issue. I've tried low dose and high dose Cialis neither helped More recently I've also used injections, but still without complete success. I'm now at the point of expecting that there will be no natural recovery, but hopeful that function can be achieved with higher dose injections. This has been difficult for me, but more importantly for my wife, though recently we have found that very good times can be be had despite these difficulties. I'm a lucky man to have such a lovely and loving wife.

Overall life is great. My general health and fitness is the best it has been in years. I'm working out, working full time, golfing, having fun with the family and having beers with the guys. Who could complain at that? I consider myself to be very fortunate compared to many who have been on the same journey.

In response to a reminder Mark said:

Thanks for the email and the great job you do. I will definitely update my story, but not for a couple of weeks - my 6 monthly PSA and check in is on 30th April so will wait until then. This will be 3 years since my radical.

I have just had my latest annual PSA check at 4 years and it is undetectable. Great news. The urologist says it is extremely rare for someone to fail if their PSA is undetectable after this time. Sexual function still an issue. I haven't done any more about it at this stage, though I am considering an implant. Otherwise my health is pretty good. Very best of luck everyone.

PSA at 5 years is still undetectable and my health is otherwise good. Sexual function still an issue and am still considering an implant, though am yet to do anything about it. I am encouraged by the experiences of an acquaintance who has had an implant in the past year and is extremely pleased with the results. Very best of luck everyone. Thanks to all who maintain this site, and very best wishes to Terry in the latest stage of his battle.

Mark's e-mail address is: mwibberley AT gmail.com (replace "AT" with "@")

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