Prostate Diagnosis

[Dre75]

Hi, I am 49 and just been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Started back in January with a PSA blood result of 9. Another PSA 3 weeks later showed it had risen to 9.6. Referred for an MRI which showed a 30mm lesion on the right side of my prostate (PI-RADS 5). Urologist booked me straight in for a biopsy. The biopsy results were Gleeson 9 (4+5) grade 5. Unfortunately during the biopsy another lesion was discovered on the left side which came back as Gleeson 7 (3+4) grade 2/3.  Booked in for a PET-PSMA next week to see if its contained to my prostate or has spread. Waiting for these results before discussing treatment options.

Its been a wild ride of emotions over the last few months to say the least........

[Felicity_CCNSW]

Hi @Dre75, 

I am very sorry to hear about your diagnosis and waiting for further results. 

It can be incredibly stressful waiting for results. Cancer Council has developed some information and resources that may be helpful on emotions and cancer that may be helpful. 

Please also feel free to call our information and support line on 13 11 20 and speak to one of our health professionals. 

Perhaps others in the forum could share what helped them navigate diagnosis and waiting for results?

Take care,

Felicity

Cancer Council Online Moderator 

[Pierre65]

Hi, something similar is happening to me. I am 60, had a elevated PSA of 5.7 in january, was referred to a specialist then second PSA of 5.6 and the MRI scan discussed thursday with a PI-RAD of 5. I have a biopsy tuesday. 
I feel like my life has changed. Until the biopsy result I think I just have to wait, prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Since I am not a resident, but I do have a temporary medicare card, I will also have to navigate this complexity. But for sure I need to go to the public sector or go back to Belgium because the private health does not cover the hospital and the biopsy is very expensive.
I felt flustered and totally unable to plan or think about the future until now. 
But the resources on this site are very helpful. I might call after the biopsy to ask about my options with my status of non-resident.
May is ask how the PET-PSMA was ? 

[Miranda_ccnsw]

Hi @Pierre65 Thanks for reaching out. I'm sorry to hear about your recent health results and subsequent biopsy, waiting for results can be an overwhelming and scary time. This will also be compounded by being away from your home country and having to navigate healthcare in a different place. 

You are welcome to call 13 11 20 to discuss your situation with our team of health professionals and see what support is available to you. Connecting with support and talking to someone is so important and can help to feel less alone in the process of it all.

Stay strong,

Miranda

CCNSW