Dear Blog Visitors:
I want to take this opportunity to thank my primary doctor, urologist, oncologist, anesthesiologist, nurses and staff of Highland Hospital in Rochester for the excellent care I received throughout the period of diagnostic tests and treatment of my prostate cancer.
I was very fortunate to have my prostate cancer diagnosed early, whereby the stage and grade were low. I was not surprised by the diagnosis, since my father and his two brothers also had prostate cancer, which means I carried the genetic marker for the disease.
Having weighed all the options for treatment, I ultimately chose brachytherapy, which is the surgical implantation of radioactive seeds into the prostate. Latest research indicates that I stand up to a 90% chance of becoming cancer free after the radioactive seeds have run their course. I won’t know for several months if I am cancer free. However, I feel positive about the prognosis given to me by my doctors.
I urge all men to have regular prostate exams, especially if there is a family history of cancer. The exam is relatively easy, inclusive of a PSA test and rectal exam. If anything looks suspicious, a urologist may recommend a biopsy, which will tell whether or not cancer is present. As indicated above, if prostate cancer is detected early, it is highly treatable, and the possibility of becoming cancer-free is highly possible.
I am having my catheter removed tomorrow, whereby my routine activities will be allowed to continue.
My thanks again to all who were involved in my treatment.
VIDEO UPDATE:
UPDATE: 3/26/12
I want to take this opportunity to thank all who have wished me well following my prostate cancer procedure. I am back to my normal activities, with the exception of running with Star (Alaskan Husky). That will continue on Thursday. In the meantime, Brenda is taking care of the dog runs.
UPDATE: 3/28/12
I felt fine after mowing the lawn this morning, so I went ahead and took Star for a run. I seem to be mending well. My thanks again for all the wonderful medical care I received from all involved at Highland Hospital.
Peace to all,
Ray
