Hi, I'm Dale from New Zealand. In 2023, after I noticed myself urinating frequently and having other symptoms, I found out I had prostate cancer.

I had actually lost my father to cancer too. I’m still receiving treatment now, with radiotherapy and hormone therapy as part of my treatment plan.

Around July 2023, I started peeing a lot and had pain in the side of my body. On top of that, my back was sore and when urinating, the flow was weak or interrupted. These symptoms led to my diagnosis of stage 4 prostate cancer.

After learning I had cancer, I cut down my alcohol consumption significantly to 2 drinks per week. I exercised more regularly and I ate healthier every day too.

I opted for radiation therapy and hormone therapy as recommended by my doctor, and I’m still in the midst of treatment now.

Finalizing this treatment plan made me very happy, relieved and motivated. However, I did face some financial difficulties because of it. My wife is a relief teacher and will miss at least 4 weeks not working. That will leave us short on income of between 2500 and 6000 (New Zealand) dollars.

I didn't experience any side effects from the treatments or medications so far.

Once treatment started, I continued cutting back on alcoholic drinks, being more active and having a healthier diet.

Apart from lifestyle modifications, my relationships have changed too. I’m in more regular contact with my parents, texting and calling them more than I used to. On the other hand, my relationship with my partner has been impacted negatively as our intimacy is dwindling.

My dreams are to live life to the fullest and keep enjoying life with my loved ones.

Throughout this journey, my biggest fear is not being me – a positive, happy, life-loving person. I've been trying to overcome this fear by staying positive.

My emotions today are mixed. I feel frightened, helpless and worried. I’m also disappointed, powerless and vulnerable, whilst confused and perplexed. However, my optimism, confidence and hopefulness stays.

Everyone has a different story; don’t be scared to share yours. And as hard as it seems, stay positive and follow the experts' advice; don’t read too much on Google.