Living with Prostate Cancer: A Journey of Hope and Resilience
Hi, I’m Tony from TurfSideUp. Despite living with stage 4 prostate cancer, I’ve embraced life’s challenges with determination and a positive attitude. My story is not just about survival, but about thriving amidst adversity, and I hope to provide some insights and inspiration for those facing similar battles.
Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
In 2017, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. My journey began while indulging in my hobby of photographing birds at a local state park. Unexpectedly, I began to experience frequent urination and, after a routine blood test, discovered my potassium levels were alarmingly high. I was swiftly taken to the hospital where tests confirmed a PSA level over 800, pointing towards prostate cancer.
Seeking a second opinion led me to the Central Ohio Urology Group, where Dr. Fredrick Taylor confirmed the diagnosis and suggested a TURP surgery to ease my symptoms and analyze the cancerous tissue. Following the surgery, I received a metastatic cancer diagnosis, meaning it had spread beyond the prostate. This ruled out gland removal as a treatment option.
The Treatments
Dr. Ben Martin, from the advanced prostate cancer program, recommended androgen-based therapy. I started with Lupron injections and Casodex, eventually switching to Zytiga—a newer, promising medication. Initially wary, I embraced the innovative protocol of taking a single 250mg tablet with a low-fat breakfast, combined with prednisone. To our relief, the treatment was successful: my PSA levels dropped to zero and remained stable for several years.
My journey with prostate cancer doesn’t just end with treatment. It requires constant vigilance. Every three months, I undergo blood tests to monitor PSA levels and my liver function, side effects of the medications. Additionally, modern imaging techniques like PSMA PET scans ensure my metastases remain stable.
Recently, when my PSA rose slightly to 0.2, it was a reminder of the unpredictable nature of cancer. In response, we introduced a course of immunotherapy. The process, known as Provenge, involves harvesting and treating white blood cells to help boost the immune system. Encouragingly, my PSA has stabilized at 0.3 after this procedure.
Positive Mental Attitude
Throughout this battle, my mantra has been maintaining a positive outlook, trying to maintain a healthy diet, and practicing gratitude. These, coupled with advanced medical treatments, have allowed me to lead a fulfilling life. I’ve continued to be engaged with and learn from resources like the Prostate Cancer Research Institute, led by Dr. Mark Scholtz, whose extensive experience has been invaluable. I’ll put a Link below
I invite you to join me in this journey. Questions, comments, and shared experiences are welcome, as they enrich this community we are building together. If you find my story helpful or inspiring, I encourage you to support this blog by buying me a “Cup of Coffee” so I can continue to help others facing a same journey.
Conclusion
As I wrap up, remember my sign-off: “Stay TurfSideUp and make the most of it.” The road may be long and winding, but with resilience, support, and a positive attitude, you can overcome the hurdles that life throws your way. Until next time, take care and stay strong.
Prostate Cancer Research Institute
Thank you for sharing this so openly, Tony — a PSA of over 800 back in 2017, discovered after you were out photographing birds, is a startling place for the story to begin. It was encouraging to read how Zytiga brought your PSA down to zero for several years, and how PSMA PET scans and Provenge have helped keep things stable since. It reminded me of the onc brothers podcast, where community oncologists break down new data and make these treatment sequences easier to follow. Stay TurfSideUp, as you say, and thank you for inviting others to share their experiences too.