I live in the Illawarra region and after a GP recommended PSA check two months ago and then a urologist referral, I got news of a Lvl 2 prostate cancer this week. The investigation process was thorough; an initial functional test, a digital exam (that was unexpected), an MRI, a biopsy and next week I’m booked in for a PET scan. I’m hopeful that this will show a localised cancer but if it’s not; then I’ll just have to deal with it, hey?! The urologist tells me that there’s a couple of treatment options, and the PET result will shape these options. The two main options are; Radical prostatectomy or radiotherapy (various forms).
I’ve accepted the diagnosis and grateful that I live in close proximity to medical and hospital services because many folks don’t have that access and travel for these services must be a real challenge if you’re from a rural or remote region. However, I am anxious about my social isolation as this will impact on my mental and physical health because while I have family, they’ve requested no contact.
Anyway, for anyone else out there who’s already on the treatment path, I’d be grateful for any tips or advice; especially on the surgery options and side-effects. Dr M has provided a lots of books from the PCFA (?) for reading…
