Everything I Learned about Prostate Cancer Began at Sixty-Five: My Personal Journey

The primary focus of this book is on patients dealing with having prostate cancer but it can also be applied to any illness, infirmity, disability or challenge one faces. Throughout my own journey with prostate cancer, I discovered that finding the best hospitals and doctors is critical. Asking and getting answers to all your questions and fully understanding your situation, diagnosis, prognosis and treatment plan is essential. Then incorporating all of your feelings, fears, values and beliefs will point you in the right direction. Being an active, full participant in your action plan, will likely produce the best outcome for you. Always asking questions about the effects of each type of treatment /procedure will prepare you well.

Don't be shy about including your feelings, thoughts and fears about their effects on your quality of life, relationships, sexual functioning, financial situation, insurance or lack thereof, effects on bodily functions, etc. The book covers each of these aspects of life in depth. It explores all of these areas from both a patient's and a therapist's perspective. It's written to give you a real, down to earth picture of my journey. It's important to both trust your doctors but your own instincts as well. Ask for and accept help and support from as many loved ones as possible. Consider searching for professional help either or both, individually or in a group. Staying active, positive and continuing to enjoy life fully will definitely help you through your journey. I hope my own personal journey will help you or any loved one currently going through life's challenges.

I am a 73 year old man who was diagnosed with prostate cancer almost seven years ago. My initial score then was 99 and my last result was under 1.0. My professional training and education include a MSSW (Master's of Science in Social Work) from Columbia University. My first professional career as a social worker and psychotherapist specialized in helping the most disabled individuals and their families, as well as with the aged. Those experiences are intertwined with my values, feelings, beliefs and ultimately my life and choices. I look at my cancer and aging from both a patient's and a therapist's perspective. I have been with the same woman for 50 years, married for 47. My best friend I have known since I was 17 years old and I have lived in the same house for 43 years. So one side of me is clearly a creature of habit, while the other is a questioner, contrarian and independent thinker who also struggles with some of my own mental health issues. I have two adult children and two young grandchildren. This gives me enormous reasons to live. While I'm 95% compliant with my doctors recommendations, I have also gone against their wishes, as well as my wife's, in one specific area.I believe strongly in giving back, so I hope you will benefit from my book.