My name is Derek. In March 2004, I was diagnosed with stage 2 prostate cancer. I underwent a laparoscopic prostatectomy and radiation therapy as part of treatment, and now my cancer is in remission. I was surprised and relieved that everything was going to be okay after treatment.

My general practitioner (GP) suggested I perform a digital rectal examination and PSA test because I was over 55 and part of the risk group. My PSA levels were normal but the PSA tests the following year (after 11 months) showed my PSA more than doubled. The doctor then did a biopsy and detected cancer cells with a Gleason score of 9. A bone scan and CAT scan showed it didn’t spread but because my Gleason score was so high they also did PSMA PET-CT scan to be sure. I did also consult a more experienced doctor for a second opinion.

The prostate biopsy had actually caused bleeding through the urethra and urinary tract infection (UTI). A few years after my diagnosis, my prostate was enlarged and caused blockage which prevented urine from flowing, so I had difficulty starting urination.

When I first heard I had prostate cancer, I felt rather neutral.

Post-diagnosis, I didn’t make any changes to my lifestyle.

My doctors recommended the following treatment options:

• Laparoscopic prostatectomy
• Bilateral orchiectomy (Removal of both testicles)
• Radiation therapy

I ultimately decided to proceed with the laparoscopic prostatectomy and radiotherapy. I didn’t want to remove my entire prostate, and it was not completely necessary based on my doctor’s advice. But I did feel very scared after finalizing my treatment plan. I’ve since completed treatment and I’m in remission.

In terms of side effects, I had pain and discomfort after the surgery. I also had problems with urination.

To manage them, I was given kegel exercises, Flomax and Ditropan post-surgery.

I found myself spending more time exercising after starting treatment. I also started going on a yearly family trip with my kid – something we didn’t do before my cancer diagnosis.

Looking ahead, I’m planning to do more gardening and part time teaching as I haven’t gone back since I retired.

I’m happy now. I have lived my life.

I wanted to make sure someone takes care of my cats when I’m gone. I was worried they wouldn’t go to the right people after I’m gone. I arranged for my cats to be taken care of, but I was still worried because they can be sensitive.

Now, I am somewhat surprised. Based on my symptoms I experienced a few years after diagnosis, I was worried that I wasn’t going to live. I had lived a fulfilling life and wasn’t surprised that I got cancer, however after treatment I was surprised and relieved that everything was going to be okay.

Be happy with your life. Don’t worry too much, it won’t help you.