After regular PSA tests, it was discovered that I had stage 2 prostate adenocarcinoma.

I felt fearful and sad when I first received the news of my diagnosis. The big C is scary. And once you’re diagnosed then there is no going back to the “before life”.

I followed my doctor’s recommendation and opted for a radical prostatectomy (removal of the entire prostate). So, I underwent a robotic assisted radical prostatectomy and am covering the treatment costs myself.

I booked surgery in ASAP. I had no desire to give cancer a chance to spread and very much wanted a cure rather than a “live with it” situation. I’ll save that for a future incurable cancer. But I felt sad after deciding on this treatment plan because of the expected side effects.

The only side effect I’ve had from the radical prostatectomy is erectile dysfunction and because of it, I have anorgasmia. To cope with this, I took prescribed medication, namely cialis, viagra and tri mix injection. I also used a penis pump.

After treatment, I drank less alcohol.

Some products that were particularly useful during my cancer journey were the penis pump and having a hospital bed at home. I wish I’d known before starting treatment that anorgasmia sucks.

I’ve had some difficulties in my social life and relationships with my loved ones since my cancer diagnosis, but overcame it with communication. Plus, the most challenging part of being a cancer survivor is the loss of functionality.

For the next few years, my plans are just to live!

Loss of bodily functions, incontinence, erectile dysfunction, not getting rid of the cancer. Those were my biggest fears. To cope with them, I talk to my spouse, join support groups and endure.

The side effects of treatment make me feel sad now.

Find and join online support groups early. Test PSA yearly, graphs and extrapolate! Catch it early! Do the tests. Stop the delays in testing, diagnosis and treatment!