Saturday afternoon it was sunny and about 70 degrees. Leaves covered my front yard and I was busy at work raking them and enjoying the beautiful day. I usually hate raking leaves but on this day it was a time of relaxation and enjoyment.
Why the change in attitude? Well, in March I was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer which at that time was believed to be small and slow growing. Subsequent blood tests (PSA) escalated much faster than expected and in early November my Urologist called the results "disconcerting." Nothing like hearing that from a doc to throw you for a loop. For several days I was devastated. I prayed frequently, did my homework and met with an Oncologist as my doc had suggested. I came to learn that most likely the initial biopsy missed something and that area probably is more aggressive than the samples that were taken. I will shortly begin hormone therapy, have another MRI, a bone scan, then begin 9 weeks of radiation treatment for 5 days each week. With God's help, the wonders of modern medicine and my doctors' expertise I will persevere and overcome this. I have found myself to be more grateful for everything in my life.
I bring this up for more than just telling my story. I urge all of my male friends over the age of 40 to get their annual wellness exam as I do. Make sure your doctor orders a PSA reading in your blood tests and does a DRE exam. Don't let him or her persuade you that you are too young to worry. We have been tracking my PSA numbers for years and I am confident that early detection will allow me to live for decades more. For all of my friends, if you don't feel well, have lost energy, gained weight, are concerned about the number of medications that you take, etc have a frank conversation with your doctor. Don't allow them to put you off, tell you to lose weight or exercise more, especially if you feel poorly. Switch doctors until you find one that listens, understands the pharmacology of your medications and prescribes different meds or even reduces what you take. I faced these challenges some time back and finding a doctor to do that has dramatically improved my health. If any of you would like to discuss these items I am happy to make myself available.
Finally, if you believe that you are healthy, you can always do better. Eat better, exercise more. Don't take your good health for granted. I never thought about those things when I was young and believed myself to be invincible. You will be rewarded with prolonged health and happiness.
Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and prayers for your continued health and well being!
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