An update for interested readers:
Original PSA 49 - most recent test show 0.06 following Oncology meeting 29th August.
Commenced my RT 27th August and I had number 13 yesterday, having another today, Saturday, that will be 6 this week. I was concerned about the RT, however, quickly settled into the routine, enema an hour before, water 30 minutes before and then 15 minutes in the treatment room. Staff did say that at about the two weeks point, I may suffer the side effects.
Their prediction was spot on, tiredness has increased gradually over the time and now passing urine is, in my opinion, problematic, very uncomfortable to start and lots of short bursts, well dribbles. Remain hydrated - so no caffeine and no alcohol - I am now awash with water and decaf coffee. As for my stomach, my toileting is very frequent and very loose, my bum hurts, so the diet must change if I am to suffer the next three weeks (I have been told that the effects will probably continue on for a further two weeks after the end of treatment)
I have almost forgotten the fact that I have cancer, strange, in that I concentrate so much on the treatment, the cause becomes secondary. I have met some very nice fellow sufferers at The Freeman and we were discussing how it will feel to no longer attend every day, to be cut loose and not monitored every day. Will I still have cancer? Yes? Will it remain the focus of everything, I think not.
This has been a long journey thus far, from the early days of my naivety, in some ways it has passed in the blink of an eye, yet in so many more, it seems an eternity away since I was "normal".
I appreciate that I am rambling, but in writing this, I have probably found myself a little, I am no longer the rabbit in the headlights and I am now calm about the predicament that myself and my family have been cast into. Finally, my wife has been outstanding and remains that one person sat in that lonely place with me, every step of the way.
Hello KJ911
Sorry to read about your side effects of the Radiotherapy - as long as you and the team are aware of the issues and they are happy to continue - then it's good news, as every fraction of RT is killing the little sods!
You will feel strange at the end of your radiotherapy - no more daily travelling and chats with your "new travellers". It's a strange feeling and you will wonder where all your free time has come from!
Like you my wife has (still is) with me every step of the way and without her support I agree with you - she's been outstanding.
Best wishes - Brian.
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