The first symptom I had was difficulty starting and stopping urination, accompanied by pain/burning during urination and a weak/interrupted urine flow. I thought the symptoms weren’t serious and had a busy lifestyle, so I decided to seek medical attention only a few months later. That led to the discovery of a prostate adenocarcinoma.

Fear gripped me because I felt I might never be cured and I was sad because I was going to live with it for a long time.

Based on my doctor’s recommendation and my own research, I opted for a partial prostatectomy (removal of part of the prostate). The treatment was a surgical procedure and it lasted for about four hours. After deciding on this treatment plan, I was afraid that it might not go well or that I might die in the process. Thankfully, I am covered by insurance.

Fatigue resulting from the partial prostatectomy had an impact on my daily life. It made me bedridden for weeks so I couldn't do anything. Besides that, I also struggled with weight fluctuations and losing my appetite. To cope with these side effects, I improved my nutrition and took prescribed medication such as modafinil.

After treatment, my nutrition and diet changed. I improved on my diet and this is giving me a quick recovery. Good nutrition or diet is necessary for fast recovery – that’s some practical advice I have.

Within the next few years, I have plans to advance in my career and start a small business.

Adult diapers, support groups and pain relievers are some things that I found to be particularly helpful in my experience with prostate cancer. I wish I knew how painful the whole process would be.

My employer offered some accommodations, so I continued working even after I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. I didn't want to stay idle and my employer was very understanding.

Since my diagnosis, I’ve struggled with my self-esteem/self-image. But I spoke to a few close friends and I read some resources online to get through it.

My greatest fear? The fear that I might eventually die and not survive it. But I overcame it by praying, thinking positively and getting help from online support groups.

Now I feel optimistic. There's hope that I will be well again.

Remain positive, be hopeful and take the recommendations from the doctor diligently.