YANA - YOU ARE NOT ALONE NOW

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT SITE

BRONZE

Damon Butler and Cindy live in Missouri, USA. He was 49 when he was diagnosed in August, 2009. His initial PSA was 2.2 ng/ml, his Gleason Score was 6 and he was staged T1c. He is undecided as to his choice of treatment. Here is his story.

As I've read several times on this site I was 49 sitting in the doctor's office hearing that I had prostate cancer. After I heard the "C" word my mind went completely blank... followed by thinking to myself, "I'm way too young for prostate cancer, isn't that what old men get"? "They have to be wrong, that happens to other people - not me!!!".

As I began the research and search for the best treatment option I couldn't believe the amount of conflicting information I was reading as far as what the best treatment option was. Having only a 2.2 PSA it just didn't seem possible I could have it but knowing my family history of this problem it seemed to be only a matter of time.

After the biopsy results the first thing my Urologist said was "surgery" but the more I am reading about it the more it seems that would be the last thing I would want. I'm sure it has been the best option for countless number of men and to completely take the prostate out would eliminate ever having this conversation again. Still reading the side effects of the "after surgery" issues it has led me to do research on several other treatment options.

I am leaning towards Proton Therapy right now but I don't know if the insurance issues will work out. Stay tuned.....

 

UPDATED

November 2009

 

 

Well, what can I say.. it's been an absolute miracle that everything was worked out for me to get proton therapy treatment at Loma Linda.

My insurance company (BCBS of Kansas City) rejected me twice with the first time being an excuse that they passed an amendment (they were unable to produce) that stated they didn't cover proton therapy any longer THE SAME DAY they received my request for authorization for Proton Therapy. What a coincidence huh? Well without dwelling on the past I was able to get the funds to get treatment and I couldn't be happier.

I can't tell you the emotional roller coaster I've been on these past several weeks. To have to daily battle somebody or something to be able to take care of your own life is absolutely draining. My heart goes out to everyone on this same journey as I know how difficult it can be sometimes. My PSA has jumped considerably in three months time (2.2 to 3.8) but fortunately the CT Scan and the Bone Scan both came back negative. I am scheduled to meet with Dr. Kaiser on Tuesday and have the pod and CT Scan completed the day after that. They told me within a week or two after that I'll be full-time treatment.

I'll be sure to keep you updated and discussed my "feelings" as I journey this thing. I'm determined to keep a positive attitude and defeat this head on! If anyone has any advice as to the best place to stay, etc. it would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Damon

 

UPDATED

December 2009

 

 

Well, I've just completed my first week of treatment at Loma Linda and it was interesting to say the least. I am a daily visitor to the HBL Gantry and at first I was apprehensive (and started out with a few problems) but after that things have been going great and the guys Ian [?] (hope I'm spelling that right) and David among others have become favorites. I hear everyone else bragging on their guys but I would put them up against anyone. They have been patient, kind, considerate and respectful and I don't know how anyone could ask for anything more than that.

When I was preparing to come here I heard several stories as to how nice and kind everyone at the hospital is and I did have my doubts but this week has made me a firm believer. At my first Wednesday night support meeting I heard Lynn say , "Nobody comes here by accident" and I couldn't agree more. There is a strong impulse within me that I need to look outside myself and "give without expecting to get" while I am here.

Stay tuned as I know there will be interesting things to share. If anyone does read this will presenting attending the Proton Therapy Center please be sure to look me up.

Until the next time I chase rabbits, Damon

Damon's e-mail address is: dbutler39@kc.rr.com