I routinely had prostate exams and PSA tests for several years. The PSA was always within normal range. However, when we decided to track the reports from the past few years, we could see that there was a steady increase in the scores. It was at this point that I questioned my doctor, who then offered to do a prostate biopsy. While it was a very unpleasant experience, this is how the cancer cells were detected. Further testing then followed.
Based on my past, I knew I’d probably face the disease at some point in my life. But even then, the diagnosis of cancer was devastating for me and my family. After reeling from the shock of the diagnosis, my wife Kathryn and I weighed my treatment options.
We were expecting five new grandbabies in 2006, in addition to the three we already had. Because I wanted to do what I thought would give me the best chance at seeing them grow up, I chose to have a radical prostatectomy rather than radiation treatment. And I’m glad that I did.
The week before I went into surgery in February of 2006, three of the babies had been born, and I planted a tomato garden in the backyard. Having that little garden gave me an extra incentive to get outside and get busy soon after I got home from surgery. I returned to work after about eight weeks, and was soon able to start riding horses again and enjoying my life.
Now, three years after the surgery, I have three more grandbabies to love—and more crops of tomatoes. I continue to work. I’ve had biyearly and now yearly PSA blood tests, all of which are at zero—just where we want them.
I would like every man to be proactive, not reactive, and get routine prostate examinations. Yes, they are unpleasant to say the least, but the best treatment for any disease is prevention or early intervention. Whether or not the men in your family have a history of prostate problems, start having PSA tests while you’re in your early forty’s. Please read up on this issue. Be aware that there may or may not be any symptoms. Along with your doctor, keep track of your PSA score and keep a copy of your blood work. If you start to see your PSA score climb, question it!
As for me, God had blessed me in many, many ways including being free of cancer, and able to love and enjoy these many grandchildren.
– Safeway employee Richard Garcia, Quality Assurance, Phoenix AZ.
