Case Study Six:
Born
8th July 1943
My
story begins four years ago with me getting up, four or five times a night for
toilet stops which certainly disturbed ones sleeping pattern.
My
GP sent me to Michael Mackey a Urologist Surgeon and as I had a LOW PSA of 2.5
he thought a re-bore procedure would help. Michael tested my flow and pressure
which was abysmal to say the least, but before confirming any medical procedure
he wanted to check my prostate digitally. He was less than happy with what he
found and booked an MRI scan. The scan found a huge tumour in the prostate
which was confirmed by a biopsy.
We
were both amazed at the result especially with my low PSA. After the biopsy Michael’s words were that
the tumour was rampant and malignant and should come out straight away before
it penetrated the prostate wall.
The
Prostate was removed by Michael using a Robotic Laparoscopic procedure. The operation was a great success and I was
released from hospital on the second day. There was little pain with no side
effects.
MORAL
OF THE STORY SO FAR IS TO NOT LET A LOW PSA PREVENT YOU FROM HAVING A DIGITAL
EXAMINATION.
I
continued having PSA tests every 3 months, which proved to be normal at .05 for
the first 2 tests, however, on the 3rd test my PSA increased to .12.
This under normal circumstances would be a great test but my oncologist Dr
(Benji) Benjamin expressed concern as the tumour had been large and fast
growing, he was worried that a small portion of the cancer may have been left
behind. He prescribed six weeks of radiation to ensure that the cancer would be
nullified.
As
I was living up in One Tree Point the Dr booked me into the Domain Lodge owned
by the Cancer Society. This is like a large hotel where accommodation and
services are free for all cancer patients. It is situated opposite the Domain
Park with Auckland Hospital being in close proximity. My radiation was at the
Mercy Hospital which was approx. a kilometre away.
Prior
to the radiation you are tattooed in the prostate area and told the
requirements for the radiation to be successful. I had to have a full bladder,
empty bowel, and no gas. NO MAN CAN ACHIEVE THESE REQUIREMENTS as we have all
been told that only the female species can multi-task. However, it is
surprising what you can achieve with a great team of radiographers around you
and by the sixth week I became an on-demand guy with a lot of help from some
amazing people.
After
the radiation the PSA’s were fine for the first six months then I noticed I was
getting up 3 to 4 times a night again to relieve myself. My Oncologist explained that after the
radiation, scar tissue forms and this can prevent one from emptying one’s
bladder. Another procedure should be done called a Cystoscopy. This is when a
Urologist sticks a camera with vice grips on the end up your penis to expand
the scar tissue. My reaction was STICK WHAT UP WHERE? I was assured there would
be no pain, and this was correct. I had to marvel at the medical profession as
I was able to follow the procedure on TV.
Once again, a restful night’s sleep was appreciated.
After
three months another PSA showed a slight increase, so the Oncologist prescribed
hormone pills which I am still taking, however my PSA for the last nine months
has been .05 which I am elated about.
The
after effects of all the surgery are:
·
Incontinence
(can be a nuisance). The exercises that were given were of immense help and I
only wear a pad for protection when going out.
·
Unfortunately
for me the tumour was so large that the removal damaged the nerves that control
erectile function. For those who have small tumours you will be advised by your
surgeon so do not be afraid to ask.
·
The
Cystoscopy only lasts for 3 months when you need to have the procedure again.
Mine has lasted 12 months but I now require it to be done again.
In conclusion: I am remaining fit and well and all is good with life, and I am still able to play golf. I have become a volunteer driver for the cancer society which has been totally rewarding and makes me understand, that I am one of the lucky ones.
Above all maintain your
sense of humour.
