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Posted 9/3/2015 8:17 PM (GMT -5)
I kind of burned out on forums a couple of years ago, so I have not posted or read anything lately. I did get a lot of support on this forum and learned much about my prostate cancer, so I thought I should report back since there have been some changes.

I had an agressive Gleason 8 cancer that was treated by surgery in January 2007. My psa for the 4 years after surgery was about .02, in other words undetectable. In 2011 my annual psa started to gradually rise. My doctor and I agreed to just wait and see. Even after doubling twice, it was still below .09. Over the past two years the psa kept edging up and doubled over a four month period so it was now above .2 . This has always been the point when I thought I would pay more attention.

I had my second IMRT radiation treatment today. Only 37 more to go. I am a an active 74 year old and have plans to live into my 90s. My oncologist said I might easily live well for another 10 years without treatment, but radiation could give me a chance to make it into my 90s. I'm taking that bet.
Posted 9/3/2015 8:45 PM (GMT -5)
On one hand, good to hear from you.
one the other, sorry you've got to do the RT thing.

It's a bit of an endurance test, but you'll make it.

Hang in there and keep us updated on your progress,
Andrew
Posted 9/3/2015 8:51 PM (GMT -5)
Life guys, you've had a good run, and hopefully after radiation you'll have an even better one. Great attitude, you'll beat this thing back.
Good luck, hang around and keep us posted.
Posted 9/4/2015 12:23 AM (GMT -5)
Thanks for the good wishes. After all this time, I was really hoping that I didn't need to deal with prostate cancer again. However the stats told me that a Gleason 8 like mine would probably come back in some form.

Watching it for a couple of years was easier than I expected. I would just not think about it until my next psa test was due. We looked at the psa every four months for the past two years. I did not meet with the oncologist until I was north of .2.

Now it's drink a bunch of water drive 25 miles, lie still...drive another 25 miles. The driving is the worst part so far.
Posted 9/4/2015 6:30 AM (GMT -5)
I'm a bit surprised the doc didn't start you on hormone therapy.
Posted 9/4/2015 12:04 PM (GMT -5)
John, we talked about hormone therapy. There is no indication that my cancer has become metastatic, so the doc felt hormones were premature. If the radiation is not effective then hormones will be the next step.

My medical people seem to be very cautious and thoughtful. I will report back in the future.
Posted 9/5/2015 12:06 PM (GMT -5)
Thought I would share an interesting service that is provided for patients doing radiation and chemo. I was suprised and pleased my first day of RT when I drove up to the hospital garage and was asked if I was a patient. The attendant told me that I should drive right to the building for free Valet Parking.

Yes every day I go ,a uniformed valet takes my car and then returns it without charge or tip. After reviewing the six digit bills for my treatment, it is refreshing to have this free service. (Paid for by a wealthy donor). Interesting to see the valet parkers drive up in everything from 20 year old pickup truck full of garbage to a Bentley.

I am told that many other hospitals have this service. But it sure makes my day nicer.
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