I should first note that I have a family history of prostate cancer. My father passed away years ago due to prostate cancer and both my brother and uncle have had prostate cancer. Also; being an Afro-American (according to a number of published research reports) increased the likelihood I could develop this disease. My reason for selecting to have surgery came after conducting my own research, taking into consideration my age, the intermediate aggressiveness of the cancer and my desire, as well as my wife's, to not delay in terms of the realistic options for my particular circumstance. In addition; when asked, I valued and respected my current urologist's opinion that surgery would be his selection for me (Due to a number of urological challenges I have experienced for many years, Dr. John Ludlow has served as my urologist for over 20 years. He has either performed and/or recommended very successful surgeries for me in the past). In my case, unlike what may be advised by most, I trust my urologist and did not desire to have a second or third opinion.
Prior to my cancer diagnosis, I was engaged in several years of active surveillance of a rising PSA. Although I was unaware that I had cancer, I wanted to do whatever I could to offset or reduce that possibility. I had already began to make reductions in my food intake and weight during the year of 2015. However; in part, to possibly lower my PSA and prevent cancer or diabetes, as well as to "ward off" any other health challenges, I significantly changed my diet and exercise efforts in January of 2016. I cut down to two meals per day. My diet consisted of primarily fruits, vegetables and fish (On occasion, I did eat a little chicken, although red meat was totally eliminated). I increased my water intake. Refined sugar, sweets, carbonated drinks, breads and dairy products were also completely eliminated. Supplements such as Saw Palmetto, Soy Isoflavones, Flax Oil, Beta Carotene and Pomegranate Juice were, periodically, inserted into my regular routine. In addition, I increased my exercise routine to 30 minute workouts about 4-5 times per week. During this period, I lost about 40 pounds, reduced my cholesterol and blood pressure medicine usage and "felt" more physically fit than what I had felt for many years prior to these changes.
However; these efforts seemed to have little impact on my PSA, which continued its steady rise and then took a sharp spike up in the Spring of 2017. It was then that my urologist and I decided that a biopsy was necessary.
In May of 2017, I was officially informed by my urologist that my biopsy results from April showed that both lobes of my prostate contained cancer. 10 of the 12 cores were malignant. At the time, it appeared to the doctors that the cancer was confined to the prostate gland.
I would assume that at least one, and maybe two of my initial responses were most likely typical of most who receive a cancer diagnosis. First; I was certainly concerned about how this disease would negatively impact me, my wife and other loved ones. Secondly; I began an intense research to learn how to approach and rid myself of this disease. Various individuals, books, and a number of web sites proved to be quite informative. I am especially grateful to the founders and current administrators of this site. The prostate cancer background and clarifying information along with the survivor contributions have been down-to-earth and valuable. I found myself going back to YANA survivor stories repeatedly during the initial weeks following my diagnosis.
However; my eventual and more desirous faith-based responses came to me shortly after the concerns I have cited in the previous paragraph surfaced. These responses have been incorporated in the remainder of this communique. God willing, should I have the opportunity to do so, I will regularly share similar-type responses that direct my decision making and actions in future update submissions.
On June 22, 2017, Dr. Bradley Willoughby successfully completed a Da Vinci Robotic Prostatectomy on me at Holland Hospital in Holland, Michigan. I have had little pain thus far and the catheter inserted, although awkward, was manageable. Ten days after my surgery, my catheter was removed but at the time of this writing, I am experiencing significant incontinence. Nevertheless; I have been able to manage relatively well. It is certainly a blessing to have my loving wife's assistance. I am also appreciative of whoever designed absorbent pads, briefs, bed underpads, cleaning wipes and even lysol disinfectant spray! Although it can be a little pricey, these items certainly make this rather pronounced lifestyle adjustment a little "drier" and provide, under the circumstances, refreshing comfort when needed. It has been especially revealing to me how one can be thankful, even in difficult circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5: 18). At this juncture, several others are providing personal and material assistance with tasks heretofore I had generally taken for granted. I found it amazing, especially after my catheter was removed, how I am so grateful to God for the gifts of mobility, particularly in terms of being able to freely, and without discomfort, walk and use both arms/hands flexibly! Also; at this point in time, due to my current challenge with incontinence, I have been extremely thankful to be able to acquire certain items/services as well as perform added and/or increased tasks I had not given much thought about previously. Some of these items and tasks include having the daily use of a washer & dryer, an adequate supply of PJ's, bedding, towels, prescribed medicines, plastic bags, being able to take frequent warm showers, trash disposal services, etc. The list could probably go on and on. There is so much to be thankful for!
On June 27, Dr. Willoughby called and informed me that the initial post-surgery lab report had detected no cancer in my lymph nodes but did find cancerous cells in at least one of my seminal vesicles.
My initial disappointment was quickly, and thankfully, short-lived. While I would like to have taken a quicker route to the complete physical healing I believe God will provide for me, His thoughts and ways are higher than mine. He knows what's best for me. The method, timing and placement of my cure from cancer is indeed totally in His hands. It is a wonderful assurance to know that the God of the universe is enabling/empowering my steps as I travel this path.
CAUTION: There seems to be an unlimited amount of information in books, on the web, published by medical institutions and offered by professionals and well-meaning friends. As mentioned earlier, I have certainly been helped already by much of the information I have read. Furthermore, I truly believe this YANA web site significantly exceeds other related sites I researched, in the areas of comprehensiveness, quality and helpfulness. Nevertheless; beware of the possibility of becoming overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information, some of which may be conflicting, scary and untrue. Even what appears to be reliable information can be "too much."
My Solution: I intentionally make time to increasingly saturate myself more in prayer, the Holy Bible and Bible-related resources (while being very selective about what other information I internalize and actually apply). Biblically-based principles and resources are my first and most important resources of information and guidance. My deepest desire is to measure all other life decisions, including prostate cancer, against this grid.
SOME SCRIPTURES I HAVE FOUND AND CONTINUE TO FIND HELPFUL
Note: I believe the only way I can appropriately respond and be absolutely guaranteed to have a successful journey and complete cure from prostate cancer is to be assuredly saved by Jesus Christ.
(Romans 3: 23.....Romans 6: 23.....Romans 10: 9, 10 & 13.....1 John 5: 13)
(Ask for wisdom).....James 1: 5 (Nothing is too hard for God to cure).....Jeremiah 32: 17)
(God will hear you and take away your fears).....Psalm 34: 4
(God can provide you with inner peace of mind).....Philippians 4: 7)
God willing, I plan to provide an update shortly after I receive my next lab report.
It has now been over 8 weeks since my surgery. I have much to be thankful for. My recovery and healing from this operation has gone quite well. While I have experienced consistent incontinence and frequent urination, it is slowly improving and currently manageable. For the first week or so after the surgery, my urinary leakage was really more of a continuous urinary flow. One day (during the entire 24 hour period) I estimated that I went through about 21 absorbent pads! Although still a challenge, I am now down to about 3 or 4 pads per day. This improvement may be due to my learning how to more efficiently and creatively use pads and briefs, adjustments in how I am doing my Kegel exercises, but most importantly, answered prayer.
My first post-surgery lab report has been received and the PSA level was 0.10 or basically undetectable. My next PSA testing is scheduled to take place in October. Nevertheless; because some of the cancerous cells had spread into at least one of my seminal vesicles, there is the possibility there may still be some remaining cancer. Therefore, I have decided it would be beneficial (and thus have scheduled) to have an informational meeting with a local radiologist (Radiation would be my preference should I go ahead with a follow-up medical intervention to address the possibility of lingering cancer cells).
I have received the okay to resume my normal physical activities, although I plan to do so gradually. I am also looking forward to going on a short (4-5 days) vacation with my wife at the end of this month to celebrate our wedding anniversary and to resume several Christian outreach ministries in September. This is truly a blessing considering what has been occurring in my life during the past 6 months. I can only give credit to God for His continuing healing, faithfulness and sustaining grace.
NOTE: I know that my journey on this path may have just started. However; I am especially grateful for the sincere prayers and loving supportive actions of so many individuals on my behalf, both within and outside of my family.
SOME SCRIPTURES I HAVE FOUND TO BE PARTICULARLY HELPFUL SINCE MY SURGERY:
(Prayer is essential and effective) James 5: 16
(God hears, heals and delivers us from fear) Psalm 30: 2 and Psalm 34: 4
(When you need assurance that something not visible now will certainly come to be) Romans 10: 23
(Nothing is impossible for God to do) Luke 1: 37
I am thankful to the Lord that my 2nd PSA test results came back in late October at 0.10 (no cancer cells detected). In addition, I have regained my physical strength and have been able to perform all of the physical tasks I had been doing prior to the surgery. Also; during the time I was in recovery this past summer, I was able to see the "hand of God" in clearer and exciting ways. Although I have only been on this journey for a short period of time, I have already grown spiritually in areas I do not think I would have grown in had I not been in my current situation. In September, I resumed active participation in all of my ministry involvement efforts and have even added two more!
How am I doing with my incontinence? While this side-effect remains, it has improved significantly (I am down to 1-2 pads per day). However; for the past few months, the healing in this aspect seems to be coming at a much slower pace. Of course, this is not actually the case being that God is doing healing inside of me at the pace I need. This healing is beyond the physical manifestations I have been able to recognize at this point and time.
After prayer, further research, confiding with my wife and considering the researched results reported for those who have experienced seminal vesicle spread similar to my own, I decided to undergo follow-up radiation therapy. At the time of this writing, I have completed 2 of the 39 sessions I am scheduled to go through. At this point in my journey, all is well and I have much to rejoice as I celebrate Thanksgiving this year with a special sense of gratefulness for God's faithfulness and healing.
SOME SCRIPTURES I HAVE FOUND TO BE PARTICULARLY HELPFUL
(God hears and answers my prayers for healing.....Isaiah 58: 9)
(Healing will often require patience.....Psalm 40: 1)
(My desire is to always have God as my primary leader as I travel this path.....Proverbs 3: 5-6)
(No matter what I am going through, I find there is always something I can thank God for.....1 Thessalonians 5: 18)
In November of 2017, I began follow-up radiation treatments at the Spectrum Health Lemmen-Holton Cancer Pavilion in Grand Rapids, Michigan. These services were supervised by Dr. Michael L. Mahacek, an especially kind, gentle and patient Radiation Oncologist. The professional support staff that assisted him repeatedly manifested these same reassuring attributes. I completed the final of thirty-nine treatments on January 18, 2018. Side effects from both the surgery and radiation, particularly those related to my incontinence and urinary frequency, have decreased significantly and are quite manageable. Following my radiation treatments and after a visit with my internist in late April, he suggested that I take additional lab tests. Even though I have had a history of being mildly anemic, my red and white cell blood levels have dropped a little more since the radiation. My wife and I agreed to his recommendation that we wait about six weeks and then take another look to see if these levels had improved. At the time of this update, my lab test results have come back showing a slight improvement. I assume we will look at these levels again down the road to see if this improvement continues.
My follow-up PSA lab tests conducted on both April 2, 2018 and again on April 27, 2018 reported no evidence of any cancerous cells were found. Since my original surgery in June of 2017' I have received four separate lab tests that have reported "no cancer detected." In addition, I have regained my physical strength and resumed practically all activities I had regularly engaged in prior to my original surgery.
I am quite aware of the need to maintain periodical PSA monitoring, the possibility of continuing and/or delayed side-effects and even the potential for cancer to return. Nevertheless; I consider myself healed and I give all the credit and praise to God Almighty. I certainly did not pray or wish to have a serious disease or illness to become a part of my personal life journey. However; I truly thank God for His enabling grace and for the many spiritual blessings/lessons I have already been a recipient of since my prostate cancer diagnosis a year ago.
SOME SCRIPTURES I HAVE FOUND TO BE PARTICULARLY HELPFUL
(I always want to remember that in spite of all of the individuals who have been instrumental in the delivery of vital services, it is God who is responsible for any and all healing.......Psalm 30: 2)
(It is truly a blessing that God has allowed me to experience this time of testing.......Romans 5: 3-4)
(I rejoice and praise the Lord for His goodness.......Psalm 150: 6)
It has now been about a year since I shared how the Lord healed me of my prostate cancer, originally diagnosed in May of 2017. I continue to give God the praise for how He worked in and through my entire health care team, loved ones and friends during the initial phases of this journey. I also continue to grow, learn and rejoice as it relates to God's amazing love, proven promises and miraculous power that enabled me not only to simply survive, but to overcome. My most recent PSA lab report was on February 5, 2019 and showed again no detectable sign of cancer. This is the fifth straight lab report that has shown no detectable sign of cancer since my surgery eighteen months ago. While a few side effects still linger, I am learning, if necessary, how to live with them. These side effects include penile shrinkage, occasional frequency and mild incontinence. However; these challenges are easily managed. I do not believe the ED I currently experience is due to the cancer or follow-up surgery and radiation. The ED started a number of years prior to these events and may have been due to the many years of dilation procedures I had related to a recurring urethral stricture disorder. I had learned to live with ED and thus it was not a side effect I was concerned about. In spite of these minor challenges, I am both encouraged and grateful to God for being relatively healthy, energetic and bountifully blessed. My red and white blood cells counts, which were a little lower after the surgery, has remained about the same with maybe a slight improvement. My primary care doctor does not see this as a concern being that I have a history of mild anemia. The exercise and diet changes I had made prior to and following my cancer are still being adhered to both because of the health benefits and my now first-hand knowledge that these changes actually work. It may also help to deter future bouts with cancer. Most weeks I exercise at a nearby YMCA for about 30 minutes 3-5 days per week. Currently; I am on the following diet approximately 90% of the year: 7 days per week of vegetables and fruits, whole grain crackers and almond nuts occasionally supplemented with portions of tofu, boco burger, oatmeal and plenty of water. I also eat fish (primarily salmon, tuna and sardines) 3-4 times per week. My diet excludes the following during this 90% period of time: Red meat, chicken, dairy products (milk, yogurt, butter, ice cream, etc.), pop, bread (rolls, biscuits, muffins, etc.), sugar, pastry (donuts, cake, cookies, pie sweet rolls, etc.). 10% of the year I splurge and eat anything I want and usually in any portions including all of the items, and more, listed in the excluded list above. Finally; I have found that taking probiotics, which I started a year or so ago, has been especially helpful as it relates to maintaining regularity.
SOME SCRIPTURES I HAVE FOUND TO BE PARTICULARLY HELPFUL
(Always give thanks for His goodness) Psalm 136:1 Psalm 30:12
(Let others know about God's wonderful and miraculous deeds) Psalm 105:1
(Thank God for hearing your prayers for help and healing) John 11:41
It has been roughly 14 months since my last update. I had planned to update a little earlier. However; due in part to a lot of adjustments that I (and I would imagine each of you also) are in the process of making, as it relates to our current coronavirus-related challenges, the update had, temporarily, slipped my mind.
God continues to protect and maintain my health since His healing of the prostate cancer I was diagnosed with in May of 2017. My last PSA lab test was conducted in April of 2019 and showed no detection of any cancer cells. At that time, I was informed by my radiologist that I did not need to see him for at least a year unless there was some complications. I had previously been told the same thing by my urologist. I am planning to have another PSA lab test in the near future.
As to side effects, I believe God has enabled me to manage those that remain quite well. The two remaining side effects that I am aware of is what I would define as a very mild case of incontinence and occasional urinary frequency.
During this past year, I spoke with my doctor regarding remedies I might want to try. In light of my particular situation (being mindful that in spite of similarities, all prostate cancer experiences are unique to each person) and personal preferences, the sling implant, medicine, increasing my Kegel exercises and bladder training efforts seemed to be the most "doable" possible solutions. Because I prefer not to risk the possibility of infections and other various possible side effects related to a sling implant and medicines, I decided, at least as of now, to live with my current easily manageable side effects rather than adopting these potential remedies.
Furthermore; because I had slacked off from doing Kegel exercises, I have increased, somewhat, my efforts in this area. While I am thankful I have not detected any decline, I cannot honestly say there has been any improvement since I have increased my efforts in this area. My occasional bouts with urinary frequency usually only occur when I take in, within a short time period, a significant amount of water and/or foods with high water contents. When this does not occur, I rarely, if ever, have urinary frequency and/or urgency. After some practice, I have now learned how to manage my urinary frequency quite well. I can usually eliminate this being a problem by simply reducing or not drinking any liquids or eating prior to and during times when I am not able to quickly access a restroom. Although I very briefly tried a few bladder training techniques, I did not stick with it and may consider making another more consistent effort in this area should urgency frequency become uncomfortable to manage. I currently manage my mild incontinence challenge by using one maximum absorbent pad every 24 hours primarily for my own sense of comfort. It helps me not to worry about any unexpected and possibly embarrassing episodes of "leakage" in public setting.
Overall; things are going well and my lifestyle is pretty much what it was prior to my cancer diagnosis, in spite of the adjustments I have made.
SOME SCRIPTURES I HAVE FOUND TO BE PARTICULARLY HELPFUL
The more I focus my thoughts and daily activities on the Holy Scriptures and the needs experienced by others, the more the results of doing so have proven to be not only spiritually, but also psychologically and emotionally therapeutic.......(All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, ....... -2 Timothy 3:16 "..........Set your mind on things above, not on things of this earth" -Clossians 3:2)
The current coronavirus challenge we are all experiencing in one way or another can actually provide an opportunity. It is an opportunity to reach out and provide assistance to others who are going through (or may go through) health and/or related situations as severe or even more severe than our cancer experience. As strange as it might seem, to engage in assisting one or more people who may be hurting while you too are hurting, can actually provide comfort to both you and others. .......(Let each of you look not only for his own interests but his own interests but also for the interests of others). ....... -Philippians 2:4)
UPDATED/ OCTOBER 2021
It has been approximately 18 months since my last update. In general, God's grace and mercy continue to be manifested since my original PC diagnosis in May of 2017. While I still have mild incontinence and occasional periods of urgent urinary frequency, I thank God for enabling me to easily manage these side effects. Currently, I maintain a pretty good supply of maximum absorbent pads (I usually replace a pad about every 24 hours even though it is often only slightly damp). I still do not feel confident enough to go without a pad. While my side effects have not worsened, they also have not improved. Therefore, I recently decided to begin again to do a few Kegel exercises (which, admittedly, I had stopped doing during these past 18 months) to see if this will bring about any improvement. I am also planning to try, at times, less absorbent pads to see if I can comfortably use them instead of the maximum absorbent ones. I may even try, at times, for a day or two, not using a pad in order to gage the amount of leakage/drips and possibly, depending on what I discover, institute other strategies. Finally; I neglected to say anything specific in earlier updates about the side effect of the penile shrinkage which occurred as a result of my surgery. While not a big issue, it certainly requires of me, at times, to manually guide my urinary "direction" to avoid frustrating misdirected urine splashes into/onto areas I will, afterward, need to "clean up." However; now that I am aware of this possibility, it rarely happens.
A practice that works fairly effectively for me to reduce my episodes of "urgent frequency" is to sip and not gulp my water intake. In addition, when going on long driving trips, I now plan for restroom/stretch stops every 2-3 hours or slightly less and avoid drinking any water until we reach our final destination for the day. Should I feel a need for liquid, which I rarely do, I will drink a soda pop. While I seldom drink soda pop, I make an exception when driving on long road trips. I found out years ago that soda pop significantly reduces my urge to urinate (most likely because of the salt ingredient that helps me to retain fluid intake). The truthfulness of this practice was evident last month after my wife and I returned from a Northwest American vacation trip. Although I did all of the driving during a two-week period of time, I did not experience any urgent urinary complications. I certainly praise the Lord for this accomplishment being that I drove nearly 4,000 miles!
Finally; my most recent PSA test lab results conducted in August of this year reported no trace of PC.
In closing, I must note that I try to remember to regularly remind myself of the Biblical truths cited below.
SOME HELPFUL SCRIPTURES
Romans 8:18 "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us."
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal."
It has been roughly 13 months since my last update. I have not ceased to give the primary credit for my healing nearly 6 years ago to God. I am not only continually grateful for His mercy but also for the dedicated medical service providers who attended to my needs throughout the treatment period.
In regards to my health, I am doing quite well, have no pains, complaints and feel, in general, very good almost all of the time. I do continue to have mild incontinence and occasional episodes of urinary frequency. Shortly after my last update, I participated in several additional weeks of physical therapy, with the hope that it would eliminate or at least minimize these side effects. While this effort only slightly improved my side effects, it did result in the improvement of my doing consistent kegel exercise techniques, which I had discontinued previously, as well as manageability comfort. I am still uncomfortable not wearing a maximum absorbent pad (I continue to use about 1 every 24 hours)). However; my continuing side effects are easily manageable. I am especially thankful to live in a country that, to date, makes it easy for me to acquire such pads. Indeed; I usually keep a large supply on hand as well as plenty of underwear.
I have not had to alter my lifestyle and "come and go," be it short trips or long, without any problems. Though I have not had to resort to any of the following items yet, when my wife and I do go on long driving trips, I take an extra supply of pads, underwear and a urinal. I do this in order to be prepared for the unexpected (such as the unavailability of a rest stop; a traffic jam of excessively long duration; having to stay on a vacation trip several days longer than planned; etc.). Having to plan for what could be somewhat uncomfortable issues related to my side-effects might sound like it would be embarrassing. However; 98% of our trips, both short and long, include only my wife and I who is particularly understanding, being that she worked for many years in the past as a nurse.
Finally; I must note that my recent PSA test results (conducted in late September of 2022) reported no trace of cancer. I stronger encourage anyone who is currently on the journey of treatment or recovery and/or after being healed/cured to not succumb to discouragement or forgetfulness. I have found it most beneficial to have either established or to continue a genuine commitment to Biblical truths. Such supernatural support is invaluable.
SOME HELPFUL SCRIPTURES:
(I m a living witness that God does heal diseases) "Bless the LORD, O my soul; And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases....." -Palm 103: 2
(One can always find something to be thankful for in any situation, no matter how dire it may appear). "In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." -1 Thessalonians 5: 18
(When God heals one from prostate cancer, it is important to share about this goodness with others, whenever an opportunity presents itself) "Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!" -Psalm 136: 1
SPECIAL NOTE: I remain willing to respond to any question(s) you might have in regards to what I have shared.
It has been roughly 13 months since my last update. I have not ceased to give the primary credit for my healing nearly 6 years ago to God. I am not only continually grateful for His mercy but also for the dedicated medical service providers who attended to my needs throughout the treatment period.
In regards to my health, I am doing quite well, have no pains, complaints and feel, in general, very good almost all of the time. I do continue to have mild incontinence and occasional episodes of urinary frequency. Shortly after my last update, I participated in several additional weeks of physical therapy, with the hope that it would eliminate or at least minimize these side effects. While this effort only slightly improved my side effects, it did result in the improvement of my doing consistent kegel exercise techniques, which I had discontinued previously, as well as manageability comfort. I am still uncomfortable not wearing a maximum absorbent pad (I continue to use about 1 every 24 hours)). However; my continuing side effects are easily manageable. I am especially thankful to live in a country that, to date, makes it easy for me to acquire such pads. Indeed; I usually keep a large supply on hand as well as plenty of underwear.
I have not had to alter my lifestyle and "come and go," be it short trips or long, without any problems. Though I have not had to resort to any of the following items yet, when my wife and I do go on long driving trips, I take an extra supply of pads, underwear and a urinal. I do this in order to be prepared for the unexpected (such as the unavailability of a rest stop; a traffic jam of excessively long duration; having to stay on a vacation trip several days longer than planned; etc.). Having to plan for what could be somewhat uncomfortable issues related to my side-effects might sound like it would be embarrassing. However; 98% of our trips, both short and long, include only my wife and I who is particularly understanding, being that she worked for many years in the past as a nurse.
Finally; I must note that my recent PSA test results (conducted in late September of 2022) reported no trace of cancer. I stronger encourage anyone who is currently on the journey of treatment or recovery and/or after being healed/cured to not succumb to discouragement or forgetfulness. I have found it most beneficial to have either established or to continue a genuine commitment to Biblical truths. Such supernatural support is invaluable.
SOME HELPFUL SCRIPTURES:
(I m a living witness that God does heal diseases) "Bless the LORD, O my soul; And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases....." -Palm 103: 2
(One can always find something to be thankful for in any situation, no matter how dire it may appear). "In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." -1 Thessalonians 5: 18
(When God heals one from prostate cancer, it is important to share about this goodness with others, whenever an opportunity presents itself) "Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!" -Psalm 136: 1
SPECIAL NOTE: I remain willing to respond to any question(s) you might have in regards to what I have shared.
UPDATED/MARCH 2024
It has now been nearly 7 years since my initial cancer treatment. During my last update in January of 2023, I shared how God enabled me to be a recipient of a caring/competent medical staff and how He miraculously healed me from prostate cancer. To date, I remain grateful for my subsequent recovery. I continue to experience regular incontinence (especially after times of having engaged in a lot of physical activity) and occasional episodes of urinary frequency. At times, physical activities that involve lifting can result in an increase of urine I cannot "hold back," which, in turn, causes a need for me to replace the heavy absorbant pad I continue to wear (and normally change once every 24 hours). Nevertheless, I am not complaining. Each of these side-effects, to date, are easily managed. I must admit I would certainly like to have God totally eradicate these inconveniences. However, if He chooses not to do so, I would be at peace about it.
How am I feeling and doing now? My physical strength was never hampered after the initial 7 weeks of recuperative recovery. Each of my comprehensive regular health checkups/PSA lab test results since the completion of my surgery and radiation have been excellent. My most recent PSA testing was conducted on March 13, 2024 and detected no trace of cancer. I still do Kegel exercises although not as frequently or intense as during my first few years of recovery. I beleive by doing so, it lessens, if only slightly, the severity and/or discomfort of each effect.
The quality of my life, following the initial recovery periods after both my surgery and radiation steadily improved and is probably as good, if not better, than prior to my cancer diagnosis. My wife and I travel frequently. We engage in numerous activities with our children and grandchildren. We exercise regularly an hour or more per day about 4-5 days per week for roughly 48-49 weeks out of the year. I usually feel pretty good and thoroughly enjoy the mobility and strength God has enabled me to have for the past 7 years post-prostate cancer.
I will note that during the past year, I did experience a minor outbreak of an unrelated medical issue ("shingles"), but with medication and helpful advice from professional health-care providers, I recovered very quickly.
Finally, I continue to be grateful for the helpful and personally uplifting information this website provided for me at a time I was in significant need as well its continuing supportive outreach (via survivor updates; tips; mentoring opportunities, etc.) to other men who find themselves on similar journeys such as mine and probably yours.
God willing; I plan to continue to share my recovery through updates and, on occasion, express my appreciation more practically, via donations. I certainly want to see this outreach continue, and if possible, expand.
SOME HELPFUL SCRIPTURES:
(It is important to let people know who is actually responsible for your healing, especially those who have a unique personal interest).
"Oh, give thanks to the LORD! Call upon His name, Make known His deeds among the peoples! -Psalm 126:12
(I will never stop thanking God for all He has done in terms of my healing). "To the end that my glory will sing praise to You and not be silent." O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever." -Psalm 30:12
Paul's e-mail address is: pfife777 AT gmail.com (replace "AT" with "@")
