So as most of you are aware I started my journey over 3 years ago with an initial PSA of 182. My initial diagnosis from my MRI and Biopsy was HT for life with a touch of 20 fractions on "the Sunbed" and a TURP Operation for good measure.
With an inconclusive MRI (possible lymph node involvement on my pelvis) Oncology reduced my sentence to 3 years HT and "zapped" my pelvic lymph nodes for good measure. In the last 3 years the lowest PSA reading I have achieved is 0.29. Full journey notes are on my profile.
My first PSA test after 3 years HT yesterday shows an increased PSA of 1.63 and we don't need a testosterone test to know that's coming back . So I am now on 3 monthly PSA tests - next one on or about 19 May 2025 (our 46th wedding anniversary!). It's now a case of watch this space.
I have always been aware of this situation so the increased PSA is no surprise - as Doris Day said "que sera sera".
Anyway, that's enough about me - thanks to every one of you who contributes to the Community - your ongoing support for fellow Community members is amazing - let's keep it that way, your peer to peer support is what keeps us all going.
Brian
Online Community Champion.
Thanks for the update Brian. You are the one who is always upbeat and positive to anyone and everyone and I know you will be the same on yourself. Its not the best news that your PSA has risen, but you know that you are with the best people to sort it out for you and after a little bit more treatment, you'll be down at 0.01 in no time. I'll be updating my treatment soon, I start my own journey on 3 Mar. Peter
Sorry to read this Brian but keeping everything crossed it’s just a bounce - and if not, you have many further options for treatment ahead of you. I’ve only recently joined this forum (a month - which to be honest feels like a lifetime already) but you have been a consistent source of support and I’m really grateful for that. Hope you had a lovely day out with your grandson xxx
HiMillibob A low blow, I felt the wind knocked out of my sails a bit when I read this, because I guess we’ve all become friends and we monitor those around us to some degree, I certainly have been following your HT journey as you know and I do want Mr BW to come off HT at some point to see what happens, so it’s all valuable information and I thank you for your constant support and sharing. I did think- hold on, it actually could be just bouncing about and settling. Did they say that? It stands to reason that it would jump up a bit without HT. I guess you can’t say for sure and need to sit about and wait for the next PSA. To double check . Why have you got to wait 3 months though? It’s a simple blood test at the end of the day. it’s either bouncing about and settling or it’s thinking about making a leisurely come back?. - 1.63 now -A blood test in 4 to 6 weeks will give you an idea of how it’s behaving. If it breaking out you will be on it faster with a scan at 2. (proactive attack) (proactive much better than sitting politely and worrying in my eyes) what do you think? .. polish up the gloves for round two and give it a good kicking to put it back in place?
Lx
Good Morning Lorraine (BarryW)
Thank you for your support - yes, I know what you mean I take many people's journey to heart and it's almost as I am there with them!!
I was expecting this - I've been around too long to know that 182 is probably not curable - I got a get out of jail card when my consultant started HT from day 1, and 3 years probation on HT/RT with a TURP for good behaviour.
I have one of the top Consultants at Christies in Manchester and she's saying 3 months so I am not going to argue the toss - and I don't think it's PSA bounce either - I don't even need a testosterone test - I know it's back!!
Life's good a the moment - I am enjoying it - but I am ready and willing to take on the next challenge - I have the support network, I have the mental attitude and I have the knowledge that I have a great team.
I would change my strapline to "que sara sara" but it wouldn't help others doing the Champs job so I will stick with the one I have - it was on a badge given to me just after diagnosis by my then 7 year old grand daughter.
Thanks again Lorraine - the journey continues.......
Kind Regards - Brian x
Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm
Strength, Courage, Faith, Hope, Defiance, VICTORY.
I am a Macmillan volunteer.
That’s great that you feel positive. And if you are happy with three months, that’s good . I always see things through my eyes which isn’t always ideal. I’m knee jerk apparently ! (BW ) if there’s a problem I want it solved yesterday ! You are clearly in safe hands though.
Lx
Brian - you are an amazing support and a true champion. So sorry to hear your latest news. I truly hope that your Christie’s team have got this and they’ve got more tools in their box.
Your’e a real inspiration to us going through this horrible journey and we are here for you too.
sending you very best wishes and a PSA on the down again.
x
Hello Crippo2
I am under The Christie in Manchester which is probably the second best cancer hospital in the UK after The Royal Marsden and I have one of the top consultants.
My PSA readings are "Free PSA" readings and if my consultant says let's wait 3 months then I am more than happy to take her advice.
Yes we have considered PSA bounce but if your read my profile an initial PSA of 182 isn't good. I was started off with a view of treatment for life.
The NHS have been there for me at point of need and have no doubt saved my life in the past - I have 100% faith in the advice I have been given..
Best wishes - Brian.
Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm
Strength, Courage, Faith, Hope, Defiance, VICTORY.
I am a Macmillan volunteer.
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007