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Newly diagnosed and very afraid
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Apr 25, 2007 - 12:21 am
My father was sent to a Urologist for a slightly elevated PSA (5.4), after exam, Urologist opted for a biopsy due to some "hardening" but was not concerned. We were then told some cancerous cells were found. We were given some reading material, but appt. was 2 wks. out. During that time we convinced ourselves the cancer was in the early stages because of the low PSA. 4 days ago we were devastated and shocked to learn that 12 of 18 samples were cancerous with Gleason scores of 8, 7, and 6, and both lobes are involved. Before further testing, he is a T2c. After reading the material, I found that cancers w/ Gleasons of 8 or more with low PSA levels often indicate abnormal cancers (that don't produce PSA) that are difficult to treat. Now we wait for all the scans..... and Pray it hasn't spread. Please someone give me some good news.... |
Joined: Mar 2002
Mack,
I am so sorry to hear of your Father's diagnosis. Please don't borrow trouble and keep a positive attitude. Until further tests are performed you do not know anything for sure. If the cancer has not spread beyond the Prostate, you have several options, surgery, radiation, or hormonal. Even if the cancer has spread, there are treatment options available for that also.
Keep the faith and let us know the outcome of the tests.
In our prayers,
Roger
Joined: Jan 2007
Hi -- at this stage of the game -- you should try and take each step -- one at a time. Don't go beyond the scans -- wait until you hear the results. As Roger said -- there are different options available. A friend - was 58 or so -- had Gleason 8 -- they werent sure if they should remove the prostate but they did -- then his PSA went to .5 6 months afterwards -- he got radiation - and he is fine now -- construction worker -- that was 10 years ago!!
Best advice -- once you get all the tests done -- find a prostate cancer specialist at a major hospital and get other opinions.
Good luck you are in our prayers -- keep us advised
Bob
Joined: Sep 2006
Mack,
The news at first is quite shocking but you have to keep a positive mind set (and so does your dad).
Do your research and get a good doctor (Dr Ash Tewari at Weill Cornell Med Cntr in NY is THE BEST) and you'll find that everything will turn out fine.
rogermoore is 100% correct in saying dont jump to conclusions.
Take this one step at a time,review all your options and then make a decision on the best procedure.
There is a world of support here for your dad if he needs it.
My thoughts and prayers are with your dad and your family!!!
Tasch
Joined: Apr 2007