Feeling low.

Talk to us we are here.

Don’t panic about the oncologist meeting. My first thought is to record the meeting if you ask nicely and they all agree to let you. I’m sure if you’re alone you will have every chance that they will sympathise and let you.

Otherwise keep looking for a pal, someone who cares to help you on this important meeting. I’m sure someone you know will help, just keep asking.

The meeting, if you are alone and not able to record it, should start with you saying something like “please talk slowly because I’m going to write detailed notes”. You can then slow the conversation to a manageable pace. Also when there’s a long name or confusing concept, ask them to repeat what they said and to explain it better so you can understand it. It’s your meeting. Stop and take a breath if you need a break.

Before you go get some questions written down and leave plenty of room for the answers. There is a list on this site that helps you construct a list of relevant questions.

As for your mood. Talk to someone, anyone, is on the forum because you are bound to feel upset, worried, confused and frustrated, it’s natural and we have all suffered with the pains of a cancer inside us and what, why, how, and where can I hide.

A cancer is a new and frightening disease to each of us at the start and the fight will be fierce as long as your mind is leading the charge. The battle is between your ears. Your mood affects every part of you. Keep your spirits up anyway you can be it a counsellor, friend or significant other. But the forum too is a safe place you can say what you really think. We are here to support you.

Don't be afraid to cry. Remember this forum is anonymous. There’s so many members that can help you understand the treatments and be able to speak from experience — if you let them.

Lastly I hope your wife has an easy recovery and you find a way to look forward to this meeting with a workable plan.

This pathway you’re on is tough but support is available in many places. You are not alone.

Hello Crown green2e787e 

You are not alone, this "problem" affects us all at some point. Let me see if I can split your posts up into a few sections

* Mrs Crown Green is going to need you next week as a hip operation is a big job and will incapacitate her for some time. I hope your family are available to help you with her recovery.

* Your oncology meeting. Are you able to take one of your children or a trusted friend. 4 Ears are better than 2. You can also ask for notes of the meeting to be sent to you after the meeting. You don't need to make any choices of treatment on the day. Once you have your options you can go away and consider them. Gleason 7 isn't the fastest growing cancer - but I know it's always on your mind.

Once you know your options ask the group for their thoughts.

* At your hospital do you have a Macmillan Centre or a "Maggie's" (Maggie's is somewhere to sit down, have a brew and chat over what's going on - it's a cancer charity) - link here "Maggie's". Call in and have a chat.

* From memory you have the choice of Surgery, hormone Therapy/Radiotherapy or Brachytherapy as your treatments. The best thing you can do is get pen and paper and draw a list of the pros and cons for each treatment as how it would affect both you and Mrs Crown Green.

Don't forget our Support Line on 0808 808 00 00 (8am to 8pm 7 days a week) is there for you and Mrs Crown Green and all your family - give them a ring they are a great bunch and can offer plenty of support.

If you want a chat my personal message box is open. If I can do anything for you by al means give me a shout.

Best wishes - Brian.

Hi CG

Yes, it can get to you , must admit but if your stats are low that Def helps.

I am assuming PSA is lowish and any tumour contained in the gland

That does make it all considerably easier to deal with and Def potentially curable.

I went for Radiotherapy because it seemed the simplest option with really no long term side effects.

Do read up about treatments , main ones being surgery or Radiotherapy .

It does get better especially once a treatment plan is put together 

Best wishes 

Steve 

And at the request of Mr U the aforementioned list:

Questions-to-ask-your-healthcare-team.

Best wishes - Brian.

I had the same diagnosis back in April. Gleason 3+4 and PSA 8. After a chat with the oncologist I opted for permanent seed brachytherapy. I had the procedure on 15th September and I've been very lucky. After a few days of erratic bladder behaviour and some constipation I feel really well. Get a little tired now and again but nothing excessive and certainly nothing that stops me living my life as I did before the procedure.

I hope what ever you decide you are as lucky as me. If they've caught  you early your prognosis is very positive.

Good luck.