Newly Diagnosed. Upset, angry and terrified

Hi John, it's been a few days since I have had chance to log on, - have just accepted friends request. 

Brian

So sorry to hear this. Be more positive, there are many years available to you once the cancer is treated. My husband was diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer 5 years ago (Gleason 9, PSA 160), it was contained in the prostate. At the time he was 67, the consultants felt that even though it was aggressive they felt blasting it with hormones and radiotherapy inside and out was the better option. I think it's best to understand the risks attached to all options, make sure you have a balanced friend with you who can ask the questions and see the reality.

Most importantly I suggest you find you local prostrate cancer support group, instant access to a variety of men who been there and can tell you their experiences, in time you'll be able to spread your experience too. Good luck and wish you well my friend

MrsWave said:

blasting it with hormones and radiotherapy inside and out was the better option.

You have just described brachytherapy boost perfectly.  However, this treatment is not suitable for all patients- the histology may dictate that it cannot be done, the patient’s previous medical history may exclude it, or the prostate cancer may be not advanced enough, or too advanced. 
The NHS MDT (multi disciplinary team) does not contain an accountant so a patient would not be excluded on the grounds of cost. Brachytherapy boost will only be prescribed if all the above considerations are satisfied. Your local hospital may not have the brachytherapy expertise (or money, ironically, as it is an expensive course of treatment): however, the NHS should then offer that part of your treatment at a hospital that can perform it, then refer you back to your local hospital for the remainder of the treatment (the external beam radiotherapy, hormone therapy and follow up).

AW

Hi John very sorry to hear of your diagnosis.  Please do make sure that you discuss a radical prostatectomy if your situation allows it. Also do as much independent research as you can as to be best informed for the various treatments and their effects thereafter. 

Best regards BM

Hi 

I was 57 when diagnosed last year. Gleason was 3+4 but my PSA was slightly higher. It’s an awful moment being given the diagnosis but after the initial shock I had to take the view that it was a good thing my PC had been found and I could consider treatment options. 
There are some good supportive comments in this thread. Barnmam makes a good point to do your own independent research to help you make the choice of treatment that’s right for you

theres also some useful chats on Prostatecanceruk forum

the thing to remember is everyone’s experience is different so it’s important for you to think about what you feel would be right for you  

I opted for the prostatectomy and had my surgery in January  for me I preferred the option to have the op as from day 2 I was beginning my recovery  I had my all clear in March which was a big relief  I’ve been managing the incontinence ok, doing my squeezes every day and am now almost 100% dry  I use a tena shield for confidence on social occasions  I leak if I have a few too many beers  

still trying to get a handle on the ED but trying solutions offered by my consultant at the Christie 

the recovery hasn’t been a straight line but we’re getting there (me and my very supportive wife)

I’ll keep squeezing and pumping and will hopefully be back to 100% on all fronts soon

you asked for hope…. I’m writing this by the poolside of a busy hotel somewhere very sunny (proudly baring my scars!). When I was having some of my darker days I would’ve laughed if anyone told me I’d be back here one day !

stay strong, there’s a lot of help and support out there

take care and best of luck with whichever route you decide on

Well said Alexius, my situation is very similar. 5 months post surgery and almost dry, though have to be careful when breaking wind. All a work in steady progress I believe. Onwards and upwards as they say. Positive thoughts.

All the best to all 

BM

Hi all. I have decided on a treatment plan and, as others had suggested, I feel so much better. I feel a weight has been lifted. Long journey ahead but the plan is in place. Many thanks to all. Thank you so much x

Great news and hope it goes well for you . Take  care

Liz & OH 

xx

Absolutely brilliant John and what an enormous step forward. Don't forget that if you need any information on your chosen path there are people here to hold your hand.

Thank you x