Hello everyone,
I’m new here, having only just joined the forums. I’m currently 10 weeks post-HIFU surgery and doing well, but I hope it’s ok to share my story in case it helps anyone else navigating that initial "whirlwind."
The Diagnosis
My journey started on December 9th. At 54 years old, I asked for a PSA test during a routine appointment—I had zero symptoms, but someone had suggested I get one done. By December 17th, I got the email: my PSA was 7.14.
What followed was a blur of MRIs, appointments, and biopsies. On January 13th, I was told I had prostate cancer. It’s something I never thought I’d have to say. My stats were:
• Stage: T2
• Gleason: Two areas (6mm of 3+4 and 1mm of 3+3)
The Decision
I was given three options: Active Surveillance, HIFU, or a Radical Prostatectomy. Initially, my gut told me to just "get it out," but my wife, Ann, and I spent time researching and joining webinars. We decided on HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) as the right path for us.
Surgery & Recovery
I had the procedure on February 4th. It took about 2 hours in the evening, followed by an overnight stay.
• Weeks 1-4: Mostly rest. I had a catheter for the first week, which is definitely a challenge, but manageable.
• Fitness: Once the initial 4 weeks were up, I took on the "March the Month" 11,000 steps-a-day challenge. It felt great to raise £1,300 for Prostate Cancer UK and get my fitness back.
Side Effects
I’ve been lucky with side effects, though I had a bit of a acare today. I passed some blood—the most I’ve seen since the op. I think I overdid it in the garden yesterday! It’s a reminder that even at 10 weeks, the body is still healing internally. I'm taking it easy today and flushing through with plenty of water.
What’s Next?
My first post-op PSA test is April 30th, with a consultation on May 12th. The plan is PSA tests every 3 months for the first year, and an MRI at the 12-month mark.
I’m an open book, so if anyone is currently weighing up HIFU or has questions about the "whirlwind" phase, please feel free to ask. Happy to share anything I’ve experienced!
wishing everyone on this journey a positive outcome and a good recovery 
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