My prostate cancer op - latest update
My journey with prostate cancer so far:
Having had annual medical blood test PSA’s - coming in at around 2, I was surprised by a spike to nearly 3 at the end of 2021. Referred to a urologist specialist and following DRE - enlarged, MRI scan - high grade, and then biopsies - all four Gleason Score 3+4=7. To check it’s spread I had a PSMA-PET scan - all contained within the prostate. Some good news at last.
Decision time! Do I need a prostate at 69 - No. I can deal with any consequences later.
So, I decided to have it removed by nerve-sparing robotic assisted Radical Prostatectomy which was scheduled for July.
But covid got me and we had to reschedule to September. Surgery occurred 13th September and I am now at home recovering from a very long procedure.
As a result, I am not running 72 kms this month - BUT I have decided to watch 72 hours of “running” movies - Chariots of Fire, Forrest Gump, Cliffy, etc. So, while I recover, and you run - I will be sitting back watching TV.
I shared my health with my kids in April - there response was “That’s what Pop died of”. Well yes, in a way - he had bladder cancer which started off from an earlier diagnosis of prostate cancer, but he was at a much older age and tested too late.
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My encouragement to my grown boys, and to all men - is to get your PSA tested early and regularly - it will save your life. It will also give you more time to watch movies!
I’d love for you to support me on this challenge and make a donation to PCFA. Every dollar will support men and their families impacted by prostate cancer and motivate me to smash my 72 hours of movies target.
You can make a donation on my page here:?https://www.thelongrun.org.au/fundraisers/waynebillington
Thank you so much for your support.
PS - if you are male (as many of you are), or have other men in you life - tell them to get their PSA tested regularly.
Wayne