At the turn of the century, I underwent a radical prostatectomy, (surgical removal of my prostate gland), hoping that it might give me another 5 or 10 years. The op was successful, and I am very fortunate to be "still here" after 22 years enjoying quite a good, simple, quality of life, although I now live alone and am approaching 84 YOA.
To my dismay and slight surprise, it was recently detected that my PSA reading was rising and I have recently undergone various scans which show that some remnant cells have taken hold.
I have recently been started on a course of Hormone therapy, (monthly injections of Prostap), which I believe is having some beneficial effect as my PSA has dropped. I am in pretty good general health and it has been hinted to me that some other alternative treatments may be available to me (involving endoscopy/biopsy/radiotherapy).
Would it be wise of me to place my faith in my instincts and continue with simple Hormone Therapy alone, which is convenient and not too intrusive, or should I consider more drastic intervention?
Has anyone experience of a situation similar to mine?
WOMBAT
Hi Wombat and welcome to the Online Community although I am so sorry to hear about your recurrence of prostate cancer, this must have come as a shock. This is such a stressful and challenging time for you but I do hope you find the community a safe place to get support and ask your questions.
The New to Community area is like our reception desk where we can signpost you on to our various cancer support groups and other services.
I see you have already joined our supportive Prostate cancer group. This will be a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
If you'd like to connect in with a group click on the Green link I have created above. Then once the page opens you can then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘new post’ by clicking in the box near the top right with + New or + (Depending on the device you are using) and you are ready to go.
You could copy and paste the text from this post into your new post and as always you can reply to existing ‘Discussions’ by click [reply].
The Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or via Webchat and Email too. This service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear. You may also find our Ask an Expert section helpful but do allow a few working days for a reply.
Talking to people face to face can be very helpful but during these strange times it’s not that available but do check to see if any Local Macmillan Support in your area has opened up. Do also check out for a local Maggie's Centre in your area as these folks are amazing.
Always around if you need further help in navigating the community.
All the very best.
