Diagnosed at 40

2

Comments

  • whubbs
    whubbs Member Posts: 77
    #22
    larry59 said:

    It's good to have options
    Olee I hope for the best for you. If you have the options I would try the radioactive seeds first. They are minimuly invasive and docs can check how things are going and it they aren't working then the prostectomy can be done before it gets to locally advanced spread. I know the decision is hard but it sounds like you have a caring doctor now. There is a place in the Atlanta area that specializes in the seed procedure but I can't remember the name. You doc might could help. In any case get going on treatment because prostate cancer doesn't give up on trying to kill you. Best of luck, let folks know how you are doing. Larry

    Options
    Olee- Best of luck in your educated decision.

    One thing I should point out though, regarding seeding, I was told that once you go down the road of radiation, that surgery is made much more difficult. The areas that get radiated by the seeds will become inoperable. I was told by my Dr. that essentially surgery is the best way to go first (of course depending on how spread the cancer got past the prostate walls) and if not taken care of by surgery, then to go down the path of seeding/cyberkife/cyro, etc.

    In terms of open vs/ robotic...
    The daVinci robot negates hand tremor and multiplies movement.
    See davinci origami on you tube.
    With the camera's and lights inside (hence the need for CO2 to inflate the abdominal cavity to see) and the operators fine motor movements, a skilled davinci surgeon can be more successful at nerve sparing AND oncological results.

    If I were a Dr. who had 20 years of hands on experience in open, I'd surely push the open because I was familiar and comfortable with it. However, results from a highly qualified robotic surgeon are better across the board in Oncological results and Urinary and Erectile function return.
  • socky
    socky Member Posts: 4
    #23
    Olee said:

    Confused
    Well I had a surgery consult last week and I have to say after everything that has transpired this was a good visit. Although I'm visiting the same facility I am seeing a new doctor and he seems to be very professional and concerned. After listening to my story of my interactions with the hospital and my frustration ,he handed me his number and instructed me to never go through the switchboard again. My confusion comes in the way of surgery. My new doctor informed me of treatment options and even offered to set up appointments for me with a radiation oncologist to discuss seed implants, although he strongly recommends surgery. He's open to me getting second opinions and says that no matter what he will treat me. He performs both robotic and open surgery, very experienced with open. He recommends open surgery because he says he can see everything and feel everything and feel more comfortable at removing the cancer. He noted the advantages of the robotic but made a strong statement that makes sense to me, after all the point of the surgery is to remove the cancer. I've read countless articles now of robotics vs open. One thing that's hard is to find is a source for robotics that's not biased, most that tout it, use it as their main method. I did read a few articles that that made a repetitive statement, when it comes down to it, finding a surgeon that's very good is the most important thing, his method should come second. I need to make a decision very soon and now I have a lot to think about.

    Robotics did it for me
    I know this is a hard decision, but you are young and your chances of full recovery are very good. I had the robotic 5 weeks ago today and I have full functions. I have lost nothing and I am 58 years old. I believe if you have the right frame of mind, a partner who is there for you and a caring doctor, then you will have a full recovery. Good luck.
  • larry59
    larry59 Member Posts: 41
    #24
    whubbs said:

    Options
    Olee- Best of luck in your educated decision.

    One thing I should point out though, regarding seeding, I was told that once you go down the road of radiation, that surgery is made much more difficult. The areas that get radiated by the seeds will become inoperable. I was told by my Dr. that essentially surgery is the best way to go first (of course depending on how spread the cancer got past the prostate walls) and if not taken care of by surgery, then to go down the path of seeding/cyberkife/cyro, etc.

    In terms of open vs/ robotic...
    The daVinci robot negates hand tremor and multiplies movement.
    See davinci origami on you tube.
    With the camera's and lights inside (hence the need for CO2 to inflate the abdominal cavity to see) and the operators fine motor movements, a skilled davinci surgeon can be more successful at nerve sparing AND oncological results.

    If I were a Dr. who had 20 years of hands on experience in open, I'd surely push the open because I was familiar and comfortable with it. However, results from a highly qualified robotic surgeon are better across the board in Oncological results and Urinary and Erectile function return.

    maybe not helpful
    olee, in my attempt to be helpul I probably just caused you more confusion. Of course you should follow your docs recomendation. Just remember surgeons recommend surgery, radiation docs recommend radiation, and seed docs recommend seeds. It's all so confusing. The main thing is to get something started asap. Prostate cancer is usually slow but can decide to move like wildfire.
    The place I could not remember as a suggestion is Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia, based in Decatur. You might want to check with them. 404-320-1550 or toll-free 800-952-7687. Email is prostateinfo@recog.com.Web site is www.rcog.com.
    Best of luck and please forgive me for confusingyou any more that you already are.
    Please let me know how you are doing. Larry 59/email foley2007larry@mchsi.com.
  • Olee
    Olee Member Posts: 97
    #25
    larry59 said:

    maybe not helpful
    olee, in my attempt to be helpul I probably just caused you more confusion. Of course you should follow your docs recomendation. Just remember surgeons recommend surgery, radiation docs recommend radiation, and seed docs recommend seeds. It's all so confusing. The main thing is to get something started asap. Prostate cancer is usually slow but can decide to move like wildfire.
    The place I could not remember as a suggestion is Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia, based in Decatur. You might want to check with them. 404-320-1550 or toll-free 800-952-7687. Email is prostateinfo@recog.com.Web site is www.rcog.com.
    Best of luck and please forgive me for confusingyou any more that you already are.
    Please let me know how you are doing. Larry 59/email foley2007larry@mchsi.com.

    Very Helpful
    Thanks very much for the info Larry and for for that matter everyone. I always appreciate the input,after all that's why I posted here right? I am actually aware of the the radiation oncology center here in Atlanta, a co-worker gave me some booklets to thier facility awhile back. I have researched and talked it over with Dr's,family and the greatest caregiver I could find, my loving wife and I think we are close to a decision. I want to implement a treatment of some sorts by the end of January or first of Febuary. The consumption of information has been exhausting, not to mention the sorting of biased vs objective, and I am still doing it as we I type. You are all so valuable in the information you provide, trust me.Thank you so much.
  • manybless
    manybless Member Posts: 6
    #26
    Olee said:

    Very Helpful
    Thanks very much for the info Larry and for for that matter everyone. I always appreciate the input,after all that's why I posted here right? I am actually aware of the the radiation oncology center here in Atlanta, a co-worker gave me some booklets to thier facility awhile back. I have researched and talked it over with Dr's,family and the greatest caregiver I could find, my loving wife and I think we are close to a decision. I want to implement a treatment of some sorts by the end of January or first of Febuary. The consumption of information has been exhausting, not to mention the sorting of biased vs objective, and I am still doing it as we I type. You are all so valuable in the information you provide, trust me.Thank you so much.

    I understand your frustration
    Good afternoon Olee. I am 42 years old and was diagnosed with PC on November 12, 2008. I had no symptoms, lived in the gym, retired Air Force, got the nickname "Supermon" on a vacation in Jamaica, and was loving life as a Pastor in Alabama. To say I was surprised that "I" had cancer is an understatement. You have many options available to you. I chose the robotic surgery. Personally, I wanted the cancer out. I've known other men who have had all the other treatments and they "all" have possible side effects. I am fortunate. 4 1/2 weeks post surgery, I have no issues with control other than some minor leaking and no problems with ED, as of yet. I chose the DaVinci Robotic Surgery because it took the best of both worlds. The surgeon was still in control, but the robot eliminated all of the tremors/vibrations from his hands during the surgery. It's not an easy decision but one you will know is right once you make it. I encourage you to get with the local ACS "Man to Man" groups and talk one on one with the men locally that have worked with your doctors. This last 2 months has been unbelievable for me. I was diagnosed with PC, had surgery, and I'm almost back to 100%. I have been blessed through this entire process. Spend some time in prayer and I will do the same for you! God bless you indeed!
  • lkenn831
    lkenn831 Member Posts: 1
    #27
    You are not alone
    Olee,

    Your story seems so similar to mine and my husband's. My husband was diagnosed at age 46 with a Gleason score of 10. It all seemed so unreal at the time as he had no symptoms at all. He had a radical prostatectomy at Emory a month after diagnosis and radiation 2 months after surgery. He is currently on hormone treatment.

    Although his PSA has started to rise (it was up to an all-time high of 12 last week,) he still feels great and if it weren't for those ominous PSA scores, we wouldn't even know he has cancer.

    Just wanted to share so that you wouldn't feel so alone in this.

    Leslie
  • Olee
    Olee Member Posts: 97
    #28
    lkenn831 said:

    You are not alone
    Olee,

    Your story seems so similar to mine and my husband's. My husband was diagnosed at age 46 with a Gleason score of 10. It all seemed so unreal at the time as he had no symptoms at all. He had a radical prostatectomy at Emory a month after diagnosis and radiation 2 months after surgery. He is currently on hormone treatment.

    Although his PSA has started to rise (it was up to an all-time high of 12 last week,) he still feels great and if it weren't for those ominous PSA scores, we wouldn't even know he has cancer.

    Just wanted to share so that you wouldn't feel so alone in this.

    Leslie

    Thank You
    It's because of my wife and family, as well as the survivors on this site that I don't feel alone, thank you for sharing.
  • Olee
    Olee Member Posts: 97
    #29
    Olee said:

    Thank You
    It's because of my wife and family, as well as the survivors on this site that I don't feel alone, thank you for sharing.

    New Rant and New Consult Appointment
    Well the doc I thought so highly of from my consult weeks ago turned out to be just another in the herd. On Monday Dec 29th when I met with him I spoke briefly about my concerns as to communication breakdowns and asked if that would happen should I choose him as my surgeon. He gave me his card and instructed me to call his personal secretary. At the appointment I also complained about a sharp pain I'm having in my groin/pelvic area. He took a urine sample and said he'd call me on Friday with the results. He also handed me a sheet to take to the front desk with a referral for a radiation oncologist. I was told someone would have to call me back with an appointment, "they were on the phone with another call right now." I never got a call back on friday with the results, never got a call back with an appointment. Monday I called the number my doctor gave me and his secretary's response was, "I don't know why he gave you my number." I asked about my urine results, the pain and if I could ask the doctor two questions about the surgery, it would only take one minute of his time. He called back on Thursday, 4 days later, at which time I was working so I missed the call. I called his secretary back yesterday, and she said,"well he tried to reach you, I'll tell him again." He will call you after 5 today." Still no call. I did get a call back yesterday afternoon from someone wanting to schedule me for a radiation oncologist, guess they finally got off that phone call, it's only been 12 days later. Oh and that pain I'm having? I called the switchboard on Tuesday as instructed and the nurse called me back on Wed. She instructed me to come in Thursday morning and she would see me, not the doctor, he was too busy. I went by and she did a 3 min test to see if I was emptying my bladder and then told me it could be my appendix or something else in that area, but wasn't urological related and that I should see my family physician. Yesterday I saw my internist, the one who caught my psa in the first place, and he seems to think it's prostate related, he's checking for infection etc. It was nice to call an office. tell them I have a problem, have someone call me back and then see a doctor, what a concept! I have to say that the times when I've taken my dog Angus to the vet, they always call me back with results asap, they even call back to ask how he's doing. I'm thinking of asking my dog how he gets better treatment for his leg pain than I do for my cancer, maybe we should share doctors! I mean I am easy to please and very passive. I'm the kind of guy that will still tip even after bad service, but I have to draw the line here. On a positve note, I took charge and went outside the facility I am currently being treated at and called who I am being told is one of Georgia's best robotic surgeons. I called Dr Scott Miller and made an appointment for Jan 20th. The surgical cordinator stayed on the phone with me for 15 mins asking questions and answering questions. Within 10 mins I had the new patient forms in my email and I emailed back to say thank you and to ask one more question, guess what? She emailed me back! I like what I am hearing about this office and this surgeon and I am both nervous and excited about the appointment.
  • whubbs
    whubbs Member Posts: 77
    #30
    Olee said:

    New Rant and New Consult Appointment
    Well the doc I thought so highly of from my consult weeks ago turned out to be just another in the herd. On Monday Dec 29th when I met with him I spoke briefly about my concerns as to communication breakdowns and asked if that would happen should I choose him as my surgeon. He gave me his card and instructed me to call his personal secretary. At the appointment I also complained about a sharp pain I'm having in my groin/pelvic area. He took a urine sample and said he'd call me on Friday with the results. He also handed me a sheet to take to the front desk with a referral for a radiation oncologist. I was told someone would have to call me back with an appointment, "they were on the phone with another call right now." I never got a call back on friday with the results, never got a call back with an appointment. Monday I called the number my doctor gave me and his secretary's response was, "I don't know why he gave you my number." I asked about my urine results, the pain and if I could ask the doctor two questions about the surgery, it would only take one minute of his time. He called back on Thursday, 4 days later, at which time I was working so I missed the call. I called his secretary back yesterday, and she said,"well he tried to reach you, I'll tell him again." He will call you after 5 today." Still no call. I did get a call back yesterday afternoon from someone wanting to schedule me for a radiation oncologist, guess they finally got off that phone call, it's only been 12 days later. Oh and that pain I'm having? I called the switchboard on Tuesday as instructed and the nurse called me back on Wed. She instructed me to come in Thursday morning and she would see me, not the doctor, he was too busy. I went by and she did a 3 min test to see if I was emptying my bladder and then told me it could be my appendix or something else in that area, but wasn't urological related and that I should see my family physician. Yesterday I saw my internist, the one who caught my psa in the first place, and he seems to think it's prostate related, he's checking for infection etc. It was nice to call an office. tell them I have a problem, have someone call me back and then see a doctor, what a concept! I have to say that the times when I've taken my dog Angus to the vet, they always call me back with results asap, they even call back to ask how he's doing. I'm thinking of asking my dog how he gets better treatment for his leg pain than I do for my cancer, maybe we should share doctors! I mean I am easy to please and very passive. I'm the kind of guy that will still tip even after bad service, but I have to draw the line here. On a positve note, I took charge and went outside the facility I am currently being treated at and called who I am being told is one of Georgia's best robotic surgeons. I called Dr Scott Miller and made an appointment for Jan 20th. The surgical cordinator stayed on the phone with me for 15 mins asking questions and answering questions. Within 10 mins I had the new patient forms in my email and I emailed back to say thank you and to ask one more question, guess what? She emailed me back! I like what I am hearing about this office and this surgeon and I am both nervous and excited about the appointment.

    Familiar
    Your frustration sounds all too familiar!
    You are right, most of us get better service from Veterinarians.
    The good ones are out there though.
    Unfortunately, time to find them is not something easily afforded.
    You sound like your on a good track.
    Don't give up on diagnosing the sharp pain, I had some sharp pain prior to surgery as well, docs thought it was a rectal issue but never narrowed in on it.
    Still have some pains in the same area occasionally, docs suggest nerve's 'waking up'...

    I just got my 7 week post surgery PSA, it is non-detectable. Very good news!
    A major PHEW! for now.

    Good luck on the 20th.
  • whubbs
    whubbs Member Posts: 77
    #31
    Olee said:

    New Rant and New Consult Appointment
    Well the doc I thought so highly of from my consult weeks ago turned out to be just another in the herd. On Monday Dec 29th when I met with him I spoke briefly about my concerns as to communication breakdowns and asked if that would happen should I choose him as my surgeon. He gave me his card and instructed me to call his personal secretary. At the appointment I also complained about a sharp pain I'm having in my groin/pelvic area. He took a urine sample and said he'd call me on Friday with the results. He also handed me a sheet to take to the front desk with a referral for a radiation oncologist. I was told someone would have to call me back with an appointment, "they were on the phone with another call right now." I never got a call back on friday with the results, never got a call back with an appointment. Monday I called the number my doctor gave me and his secretary's response was, "I don't know why he gave you my number." I asked about my urine results, the pain and if I could ask the doctor two questions about the surgery, it would only take one minute of his time. He called back on Thursday, 4 days later, at which time I was working so I missed the call. I called his secretary back yesterday, and she said,"well he tried to reach you, I'll tell him again." He will call you after 5 today." Still no call. I did get a call back yesterday afternoon from someone wanting to schedule me for a radiation oncologist, guess they finally got off that phone call, it's only been 12 days later. Oh and that pain I'm having? I called the switchboard on Tuesday as instructed and the nurse called me back on Wed. She instructed me to come in Thursday morning and she would see me, not the doctor, he was too busy. I went by and she did a 3 min test to see if I was emptying my bladder and then told me it could be my appendix or something else in that area, but wasn't urological related and that I should see my family physician. Yesterday I saw my internist, the one who caught my psa in the first place, and he seems to think it's prostate related, he's checking for infection etc. It was nice to call an office. tell them I have a problem, have someone call me back and then see a doctor, what a concept! I have to say that the times when I've taken my dog Angus to the vet, they always call me back with results asap, they even call back to ask how he's doing. I'm thinking of asking my dog how he gets better treatment for his leg pain than I do for my cancer, maybe we should share doctors! I mean I am easy to please and very passive. I'm the kind of guy that will still tip even after bad service, but I have to draw the line here. On a positve note, I took charge and went outside the facility I am currently being treated at and called who I am being told is one of Georgia's best robotic surgeons. I called Dr Scott Miller and made an appointment for Jan 20th. The surgical cordinator stayed on the phone with me for 15 mins asking questions and answering questions. Within 10 mins I had the new patient forms in my email and I emailed back to say thank you and to ask one more question, guess what? She emailed me back! I like what I am hearing about this office and this surgeon and I am both nervous and excited about the appointment.

    Familiar
    -
  • whubbs
    whubbs Member Posts: 77
    #32
    Olee said:

    New Rant and New Consult Appointment
    Well the doc I thought so highly of from my consult weeks ago turned out to be just another in the herd. On Monday Dec 29th when I met with him I spoke briefly about my concerns as to communication breakdowns and asked if that would happen should I choose him as my surgeon. He gave me his card and instructed me to call his personal secretary. At the appointment I also complained about a sharp pain I'm having in my groin/pelvic area. He took a urine sample and said he'd call me on Friday with the results. He also handed me a sheet to take to the front desk with a referral for a radiation oncologist. I was told someone would have to call me back with an appointment, "they were on the phone with another call right now." I never got a call back on friday with the results, never got a call back with an appointment. Monday I called the number my doctor gave me and his secretary's response was, "I don't know why he gave you my number." I asked about my urine results, the pain and if I could ask the doctor two questions about the surgery, it would only take one minute of his time. He called back on Thursday, 4 days later, at which time I was working so I missed the call. I called his secretary back yesterday, and she said,"well he tried to reach you, I'll tell him again." He will call you after 5 today." Still no call. I did get a call back yesterday afternoon from someone wanting to schedule me for a radiation oncologist, guess they finally got off that phone call, it's only been 12 days later. Oh and that pain I'm having? I called the switchboard on Tuesday as instructed and the nurse called me back on Wed. She instructed me to come in Thursday morning and she would see me, not the doctor, he was too busy. I went by and she did a 3 min test to see if I was emptying my bladder and then told me it could be my appendix or something else in that area, but wasn't urological related and that I should see my family physician. Yesterday I saw my internist, the one who caught my psa in the first place, and he seems to think it's prostate related, he's checking for infection etc. It was nice to call an office. tell them I have a problem, have someone call me back and then see a doctor, what a concept! I have to say that the times when I've taken my dog Angus to the vet, they always call me back with results asap, they even call back to ask how he's doing. I'm thinking of asking my dog how he gets better treatment for his leg pain than I do for my cancer, maybe we should share doctors! I mean I am easy to please and very passive. I'm the kind of guy that will still tip even after bad service, but I have to draw the line here. On a positve note, I took charge and went outside the facility I am currently being treated at and called who I am being told is one of Georgia's best robotic surgeons. I called Dr Scott Miller and made an appointment for Jan 20th. The surgical cordinator stayed on the phone with me for 15 mins asking questions and answering questions. Within 10 mins I had the new patient forms in my email and I emailed back to say thank you and to ask one more question, guess what? She emailed me back! I like what I am hearing about this office and this surgeon and I am both nervous and excited about the appointment.

    Familiar
    -
  • larry59
    larry59 Member Posts: 41
    #33
    Olee said:

    New Rant and New Consult Appointment
    Well the doc I thought so highly of from my consult weeks ago turned out to be just another in the herd. On Monday Dec 29th when I met with him I spoke briefly about my concerns as to communication breakdowns and asked if that would happen should I choose him as my surgeon. He gave me his card and instructed me to call his personal secretary. At the appointment I also complained about a sharp pain I'm having in my groin/pelvic area. He took a urine sample and said he'd call me on Friday with the results. He also handed me a sheet to take to the front desk with a referral for a radiation oncologist. I was told someone would have to call me back with an appointment, "they were on the phone with another call right now." I never got a call back on friday with the results, never got a call back with an appointment. Monday I called the number my doctor gave me and his secretary's response was, "I don't know why he gave you my number." I asked about my urine results, the pain and if I could ask the doctor two questions about the surgery, it would only take one minute of his time. He called back on Thursday, 4 days later, at which time I was working so I missed the call. I called his secretary back yesterday, and she said,"well he tried to reach you, I'll tell him again." He will call you after 5 today." Still no call. I did get a call back yesterday afternoon from someone wanting to schedule me for a radiation oncologist, guess they finally got off that phone call, it's only been 12 days later. Oh and that pain I'm having? I called the switchboard on Tuesday as instructed and the nurse called me back on Wed. She instructed me to come in Thursday morning and she would see me, not the doctor, he was too busy. I went by and she did a 3 min test to see if I was emptying my bladder and then told me it could be my appendix or something else in that area, but wasn't urological related and that I should see my family physician. Yesterday I saw my internist, the one who caught my psa in the first place, and he seems to think it's prostate related, he's checking for infection etc. It was nice to call an office. tell them I have a problem, have someone call me back and then see a doctor, what a concept! I have to say that the times when I've taken my dog Angus to the vet, they always call me back with results asap, they even call back to ask how he's doing. I'm thinking of asking my dog how he gets better treatment for his leg pain than I do for my cancer, maybe we should share doctors! I mean I am easy to please and very passive. I'm the kind of guy that will still tip even after bad service, but I have to draw the line here. On a positve note, I took charge and went outside the facility I am currently being treated at and called who I am being told is one of Georgia's best robotic surgeons. I called Dr Scott Miller and made an appointment for Jan 20th. The surgical cordinator stayed on the phone with me for 15 mins asking questions and answering questions. Within 10 mins I had the new patient forms in my email and I emailed back to say thank you and to ask one more question, guess what? She emailed me back! I like what I am hearing about this office and this surgeon and I am both nervous and excited about the appointment.

    hi olee
    Sorry to hear you are having doc problems. I was very lucky and got a good one here in Columbus the first time. They do have good docs here, guess we're lucky, plus we have the John Amos Cancer Center which is among the best facilities in the U.S. That's where I will getting radiation therapy, to start as soon as the doc works out my treatment plan.
    Best of luck with your doctors, care, and treatment. And try to stay positive!
  • Olee
    Olee Member Posts: 97
    #34
    larry59 said:

    hi olee
    Sorry to hear you are having doc problems. I was very lucky and got a good one here in Columbus the first time. They do have good docs here, guess we're lucky, plus we have the John Amos Cancer Center which is among the best facilities in the U.S. That's where I will getting radiation therapy, to start as soon as the doc works out my treatment plan.
    Best of luck with your doctors, care, and treatment. And try to stay positive!

    Whubbs, I'm so glad to hear
    Whubbs, I'm so glad to hear the good news! Good for you man! Thanks for the encouragement also. Larry, I've learned that getting a good doc is all in the luck of the draw. I had one hell of a hand when I landed my internist who screened me, but man did I play the deck bad after that hand! It's good to hear someone is having thier cancer "managed" and it sounds like you have a good system working for you. I'm always happy for any man that lands a good doc, as well as a good outcome on procedures or tests. Let us know how things go for you.
  • train-nut
    train-nut Member Posts: 101
    #35
    Olee said:

    Whubbs, I'm so glad to hear
    Whubbs, I'm so glad to hear the good news! Good for you man! Thanks for the encouragement also. Larry, I've learned that getting a good doc is all in the luck of the draw. I had one hell of a hand when I landed my internist who screened me, but man did I play the deck bad after that hand! It's good to hear someone is having thier cancer "managed" and it sounds like you have a good system working for you. I'm always happy for any man that lands a good doc, as well as a good outcome on procedures or tests. Let us know how things go for you.

    Your Help
    Olee,

    A friend/business associate living in Atlanta was diagnosed with PC several weeks ago. He has started his research into treatment options and who is "best". If you would be kind enough to talk to him both he and I would appreciate it. Please let me know at tulsadelta@sbcglobal.net...thank you, Rich
  • socky
    socky Member Posts: 4
    #36
    Olee said:

    New Rant and New Consult Appointment
    Well the doc I thought so highly of from my consult weeks ago turned out to be just another in the herd. On Monday Dec 29th when I met with him I spoke briefly about my concerns as to communication breakdowns and asked if that would happen should I choose him as my surgeon. He gave me his card and instructed me to call his personal secretary. At the appointment I also complained about a sharp pain I'm having in my groin/pelvic area. He took a urine sample and said he'd call me on Friday with the results. He also handed me a sheet to take to the front desk with a referral for a radiation oncologist. I was told someone would have to call me back with an appointment, "they were on the phone with another call right now." I never got a call back on friday with the results, never got a call back with an appointment. Monday I called the number my doctor gave me and his secretary's response was, "I don't know why he gave you my number." I asked about my urine results, the pain and if I could ask the doctor two questions about the surgery, it would only take one minute of his time. He called back on Thursday, 4 days later, at which time I was working so I missed the call. I called his secretary back yesterday, and she said,"well he tried to reach you, I'll tell him again." He will call you after 5 today." Still no call. I did get a call back yesterday afternoon from someone wanting to schedule me for a radiation oncologist, guess they finally got off that phone call, it's only been 12 days later. Oh and that pain I'm having? I called the switchboard on Tuesday as instructed and the nurse called me back on Wed. She instructed me to come in Thursday morning and she would see me, not the doctor, he was too busy. I went by and she did a 3 min test to see if I was emptying my bladder and then told me it could be my appendix or something else in that area, but wasn't urological related and that I should see my family physician. Yesterday I saw my internist, the one who caught my psa in the first place, and he seems to think it's prostate related, he's checking for infection etc. It was nice to call an office. tell them I have a problem, have someone call me back and then see a doctor, what a concept! I have to say that the times when I've taken my dog Angus to the vet, they always call me back with results asap, they even call back to ask how he's doing. I'm thinking of asking my dog how he gets better treatment for his leg pain than I do for my cancer, maybe we should share doctors! I mean I am easy to please and very passive. I'm the kind of guy that will still tip even after bad service, but I have to draw the line here. On a positve note, I took charge and went outside the facility I am currently being treated at and called who I am being told is one of Georgia's best robotic surgeons. I called Dr Scott Miller and made an appointment for Jan 20th. The surgical cordinator stayed on the phone with me for 15 mins asking questions and answering questions. Within 10 mins I had the new patient forms in my email and I emailed back to say thank you and to ask one more question, guess what? She emailed me back! I like what I am hearing about this office and this surgeon and I am both nervous and excited about the appointment.

    January 20th Appointment
    Olee,
    How did your appointment go. Hoping that things will be smooth for your the rest of this journey.
  • lion1
    lion1 Member Posts: 241
    #37
    zackpar said:

    I was received the Prostate Cancer News at 45!!!
    Olee:

    I had a family history of prostate cancer and always knew at some point I would probably get it but not at 45. I went in for a routine physical and the doctor did a DRE on me and was not pleased with the irregularity of the prostate and then told me a few days later my PSA was 3.6 but was not sure if it was cancer. He referred me to Baylor Urology Clinic, Dr. Dov Kadmon. A biopsy was performed ( that was the worse thing I have ever experienced in my life--reminded me of a roofing gun going off in my body!!!!) He took 12 samples and 8 out of the 12 were cancerous. My wife and I met with Dr Kadmon and he explained to us that I really had only one option at my age and it was to remove the prostate!!! The surgery was scheduled for June 9th, 2004. I am grateful that the cancer was confined in the prostate capsule and have been blessed with a very low PSA score for 4 1/2 years. I would be happy to discuss the side effects with you if you are interested.

    Zack

    Incontinence after LRP
    Zack,
    I had an LRP in 2006 at 46 and the surgery went well--cancer gone--but incontinence remains, after 2 and1/2 yrs, I just had my urologist inject me with collagen yesterday, we'll see what happens, but today I am still leaking. May have to inject again in 4 or 5 months. I am using this approach, because a sling and Artificial Sphincter seem too extreme for a guy who is active and only 49yrs old. Plus I have read that those devices are not full-proof and I seem like I rather drip, than suffer infection or undue pain. Your thoughts? Experiences? Others you know?

    Thanks,
    Lion1
  • Olee
    Olee Member Posts: 97
    #38
    socky said:

    January 20th Appointment
    Olee,
    How did your appointment go. Hoping that things will be smooth for your the rest of this journey.

    Great Appointment
    Well my appointment went great! The staff at Dr. Scott Miller's office greeted us kindly and welcomed us in as if we were guest. Dr. Miller invited us into his office and we sat for a good hour and discussed things. He gave us a new perspective on robotic surgery with a few creative analogies as well as his extensive background using the technique. He was the first urologic laparoscopist in the state of Georgia. He performed the first laparoscopic kidney removal for cancer in the state of Georgia and later the first to do the procedure for prostate cancer. He also performed Georgia's first robotic prostate removal in 2003 and performs about 300 of these surgeries annually. We enjoyed his discussion because he gave no promises and sales pitches, just his experience and knowledge. We felt very comfortable speaking to him, he was not condescending or "God-Like" in his approach and listened very well. My wife and I knew it was getting late, but he encouraged us to ask more questions. It was interesting to hear the difference of opinion between two surgeons, which will actually change my treatment. After shaking his hand and thanking him for his time, we met with his surgical coordinator who was very friendly. My wife and I knew minutes into the meeting that this was the surgeon so when we were asked if we wanted to set a date we responded with a quick YES. I have robotic surgery set for February 19th with Dr. Miller. I can't tell you guys how scared I am, but how relieved I am to have a resolution to this surgery ordeal. Not to mention to finally have found a doctor that listens and informs, and communicates! After the two surgical consults I completed, I have to say they were like night and day. The one at Emory lasted about 10 minutes tops and the doctor did about 95% of the talking. It took place in a patient exam room and seemed like just another appointment to the doctor. I had two questions to ask him over the phone mind you,almost a month ago, and I have yet to receive that return call. The consult with Dr. Miller at North Side Hospital lasted a total of 1 1/2 hours and was conducted in the relaxed setting of his office. There was a mutual discussion between two parties and we felt as though we took part. My wife and I just wish we could have found the better of the two in the beginning. Thank you all for the concern and I will continue to update everyone. I also read your entries as I want to know how you guys are doing as well.
  • Olee
    Olee Member Posts: 97
    #39
    I emailed you some info for what and who I have heard, and experienced, are the best options for treating prostate cancer in Atlanta. Let us know how things work out and best wishes.
  • train-nut
    train-nut Member Posts: 101
    #40
    Olee said:

    I emailed you some info for what and who I have heard, and experienced, are the best options for treating prostate cancer in Atlanta. Let us know how things work out and best wishes.

    Thank You
    My friend will be in touch with you shortly. Dr. Miller has been recommended to him. Your assistance is very much appreciated. Please keep posting, you're probably helping more people than you know. My best to you.
  • sjrayfie
    sjrayfie Member Posts: 1
    #41
    whubbs said:

    Help and support
    It's one thing I've come to appreciate since being diagnosed and subsequentally treated by
    robotic prostatectomy only 2 weeks ago now, is the desire to help other men who have been diagnosed and face the same 'bump in the road' that I'm managing now.
    Please don't hesitate to email me at cobrabite427@yahoo.com if you'd like to discuss the
    robotic prostatectomy, like everyone else that educates themselves upon their treatment, I would be more than happy to relate my own experience and education to help others.
    Good luck and look forward seeing your posts and/or emails of your progress.
    -Wayne

    upcoming robotic prostatectomy
    Hello my name is Scott and I live in Portland Oregon. I have a Robotic Prostatectomy scheduled for Arpil 6th. I have no symptoms and the surgery is far enough away that it seems this is a dream. I have done a lot of research about the surgery decision but I have not discussed anyones experience that has gone through the Robotic surgery.
    Please reply and I will try to keep a dialogue going.
    I do not check my home emails often...try scott.rayfield@co.multnomah.or.us
    Thanks and hope all is well with you.

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