I took up two hours a week gym work with a personal trainer - never used a gym before! Helped with the inevitable muscle loss. Also I do around 2 miles of brisk walking on 3 days a week and usually a 4 mile hike once a week. I eat just two meals a day and try to eat sensibly when at home. Unsuccessfully try not to drink alcohol if not going out! Thus have managed to keep my weight down.
The surgery went well but unfortunately the cancer had spread to my lymph nodes. I tolerated well the subsequent chemo. The injected hormone therapy is tolerable as are the usual side effects. Although I dislike my slightly fatter left leg (25 infected lymph nodes were removed during surgery) I generally manage the lymphoedema in my left leg with a compression stocking. My penis and testicles have shrunk significantly which is sad but I knew it would happen so it is as it is. By far the very worst aspect is as I approach the time to have my 3 monthly psa blood test. The stress is simply awful!! But there is no alternative. After 5+ years of post operative hormone therapy I realise my psa (after being undetectable for 5+ years) will almost certainly start to climb and I will have to try some new type of treatment. I get a bit ratty at this point!! But the relief following a good result is wonderful!! But next time????
Yes
When I had the surgery the prior MRI scan suggested that the cancer was contained when it wasn’t. But I am still glad I had the radical prostatectomy because it seems to me a good idea to get rid of the mass of tumour from my body even if micro deposits of cancer remain in my lymph system.
By sharing your story you can help others. Share what went well, what didn't and everything in between. Your experience is valuable. Help make the prostate cancer community stronger.
