Just diagnosed

I agree with Barryw's post, u don't want to let it spread when potentially it is still curable.

One step at a time, go for the biopsy, it is tolerable

Get that result and then we can help u with a treatment desicion, I have got an idea and will tell u when u get the biopsy result.

You'll be ok

Best wishes

Steve 

Thanks Barry and Steve. My head has fallen off today. I had a big row with my Chemist who said they had delivered my Lorazepam and they haven't. They are saying my GP cannot prescribe the tablets again even if they have not been delivered because it is against the law. I will have to do without and stop them when I run out of last months supply in one week. It is dangerous to stop taking this medication suddenly.

It just seems to be one disaster after another.

Kind regards James

Hi James

It looks like you've just had a couple of bad days - and now with this "mix up" it isn't helping. As regarding the GP/Chemist issue ask to see your GP practice manager and they should be able to sort out the matter.

I read your comments yesterday about considering refusing treatment and you being worried about the side effects.

For me it wasn't a choice, once I was ill I was determined to fight whatever I had (I didn't know it was PC to start of with - I nearly died with lack of kidney function!) there is so much in life to enjoy and I didn't want to miss out on things I had told myself I would do!!

As to the treatment options, yes they all have a loss of dignity (don't forget the professionals have seen it all  before).There is a small amount of pain - reduced by anesthetics, and there are side effects. Nearly all of us get the side effects to some degree but they are all manageable and don't affect daily life too much.

You are only a 69 year old - I am 2 years behind you- 19 months down the line from diagnosis to writing this reply and I feel amazing - it's a great feeling being able to wake up in a morning with so many things to do each day.

Personal advice - as Barry W said above - one step at at time - take it easy and we will come with you on your journey through this - every step.

Best wishes

Brian.

Sorry to hear Ret, I think the pharmacy is wrong though.

I'm sure if u spoke with your GP they can sort it for you

Try and pick it up rather than have delivered.

Steve 

Thanks Brian and Steve.

 One thing I cannot understand is that my PSA level was 4.88. If I had been 70 that would not have triggered the automatic MRI which has to be 5 or over.

 I have emailed my Doctor about the Pharmacy. It is a Taxi Journey there if I don't get it delivered. They are calling me a liar.

Kind regards James.

Sometimes down to rate of increase,  do u know what previous PSA was , if there was one

Steve 

Hi James - The PSA level is an indicator that the prostate isn't as healthy as it could be. The scans and biopsy together with the PSA results allow the oncologist/surgeon/MDT team to work out the best treatment (if any is required).

I would look at it this way - with the other conditions you have your medical team /GP are looking after you and don't want anything else adding to your list of conditions.

As for the medication - it happens to us all at some point - I am sure you will get it resolved tomorrow when everyone is back at work.

Best wishes

Brian.

I have no idea what my previous PSA was Steve.

 Still trying to sort out my medication. It's just all too much for me to cope with at the moment. As far as treatment is concerned I don't want anything thats going to destroy my quality of life badly. It would seem that no Prostrate = Incontinence. Radiotherapy = sickeness and damages other organs. Hormone treatment cannot cure it and turns you into a female. So for me there is no treatment I could cope with.

Kind regards James.

Actually Radiotherapy on its own is ok, I had it 5 years ago, no problems. Probably the best NHS treatment re lack of side effects 

Hi James

I hope you get your medication sorted out soon

Let me say at the outset I respect your views - I would just point out Prostate Cancer can endanger your life like any cancer if untreated. All treatments are given with a view to an ultimate cure if started early enough. They all have advantages and disadvantages and it's down to personal choice at the end of the day.

Surgery - not always incontinence - quite often full recovery.

Radiotherapy - side effects and potential damage to organs.

Hormone treatment - Side effects - with female symptoms/issues.

On this community there are good people who have been through each of the above and are happy to share their experiences and more than happy to engage in helping with the effects of each treatment.

As I said - I respect your views BUT for me each option is better than no treatment at all and the subsequent potential decline in health.

I am more than happy to discuss HT/RT on a one to one if you want to PM me - it's not as bad as you make out and could be a LIFE SAVER.- I am aware that even though on here we are anonymous there may well be things you don't wish to discuss on a public forum.

I hope the above is of some help.

Best wishes

Brian.