So in October I introduced a thread in advance of my first ultrasensitive PSA test after being off Lupron for 11 1/2 months. As I indicated in May of 2009 I was a Gleason 7 going into daVinci surgery, and a Gleason 8, Stage 3 coming out. Went ten months with ultrasensitive testing regularly. In the tenth month my reading went from 0.05 to 0.07 and my urologist chose to get right on it (whether it was a statistical deviation or not, for he wanted to irradiate the bed of the prostate early). So, after having and AUS placed in June of 2010, I had the thirty eight RTs in July and August of 2010 with two years of hormone therapy which ended in January of 2012. I called it my "Lupron Vacation" for my PSA readings were always zero, and I had no worries.
Well, December 12, 2012 I had my first ultrasensitive PSA after being off Lupron for those last 11 1/2 months. Nicely, it came out less than 0.02 ng/mL. PSA levels less than 0.02 cannot be measured accurately and should be considered negative. Needless to say a lot of tears and hugs with/for my internist and my Christmas made merrier than you can imagine.
The reason I post, and did so in advance of my reasons also, is that during the last two and a half years I have totally (only one exception) given up red meat, dairy, and reduced any sugar intake as much as possible. When I first mentioned this to my doctors they were very ho-hum. As time has gone on, I get the feeling that medicine is seeing the benefits of diet and exercise in such situations, and all three doctors seem to be responding more favorably to same. I have always exercised vigorously, so there was no change there.
Now I certainly understand one case does not a study make, but being type A and needing to do everything I can to benefit my situation, I wanted to share this positive event. I cannot believe more in the aggressive, positive approach to my cancer, and believe strongly that with the seriousness of my disease going in, all these treatments collectively are the reason for a positive future outlook.
Just wanted to share and a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all. Bob.
Joined: Nov 2010
Bob
Great news and great advice.
Congratulations on the continuing Zero status. It has been difficult to me to follow a restrictive diet similar to that of yours but I also am a believer of the importance in a follow up with some sort of Diet or Supplements or Physical Exercises.
Happy Holidays to you and yours.
VGama