After experiencing persistent back pain and difficulty urinating, I was eventually diagnosed with stage 2 prostate cancer in May 2019.
I insisted that doctors do surgery to remove the prostate gland and tumor, so I underwent a radical prostatectomy. I’m now in remission.
I had discomfort in my lower back and difficulty urinating. It went on for 3 months until I decided to see a doctor. My prostate was inflamed and they couldn’t confirm my cancer.
After a course of antibiotics, they were able to do another biopsy to confirm my condition. It took many weeks of testing. The diagnosis was stage 2 prostate cancer.
In the face of my diagnosis, I was worried, numb and confused.
Before finding out I had cancer, I used to have seven drinks a week, but I reduced that number to three per week. I cut back on smoking and ate healthier too.
Initially, my doctor recommended to monitor and check progression. However, I didn’t want to wait. I wanted surgery to remove the cancer as fast as possible, so I eventually opted for a radical prostatectomy.
After deciding on my treatment, my feelings were a complex mix; I was hopeful and motivated, but a little anxious too.
The surgery left me with some side effects. I had swelling near the surgery area. It caused a lot of pain and discomfort. It needed draining and extra follow-up with the doctors.
After treatment started, I continued to keep my alcohol consumption and smoking frequency low while eating healthier too.
Another aspect of my life that’s changed since my cancer diagnosis is my sexual relationship with my partner, which has been negatively impacted. Nevertheless, my connection with my kids remains close, as I spend more time with them.
I plan to retire from my family business and have my children take over. I would like to travel more. Go on a cruise and visit casinos.
I didn’t fear. I wanted everything to be done fast, wanted to get it done with. Don’t need to wait. It’s either you live or you die.
Years have passed since my diagnosis, and I feel rather neutral now.
Be brave. No point in feeling scared of what is about to happen.
This patient's story is published and shared with their full consent. Any personal data that can be used to identify the patient has been omitted.
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