SONNY--DAY 6 POST SURGERY- THE CATHETER IS GONE

Just got back from the clinic where I had the cath removed. Last check before they took it out, pee'd from a full bladder, strong stream and there was very little residual left in the bladder.

The path reports are due in this afternoon and I'll be flying back to Orlando tomorrow abt 2pm.

I have said it many times in my posts but you folks can't possible know how much your support has meant to me through out this process. From the discover stages, to the Dr. Selection, and through the surgery and recovery, I have felt you guys with me all along the way. Thank you so much.

I know that this is serious business and I have never tried trivialize or minimize any of my posts, but I have to tell you the surgery and recovery here have really been almost a non-event. They have a very well thought out plan here and each step of the way has always been about the patient first.

Now it's back home to recovery and begin the life of new endings. Can't change the past, but I can affect the future. I will continue with my personal mantra that I have spoken here often; 'EVERY DAY IS A BONUS". So I will eat a little better, exercise a little more, cherish the day and feel free to love and support my fellow man a whole lot more.

I have tried to as honest as possible while I detailed my recovery. I know that some view it as remarkable and maybe it was. But for the others that follow my path of finding you guys looking for info and guidance, I wanted them to know that the process does not have to be miserable and painful. Mine truly was not.

I take a little credit in my recovery. I exercised to get in shape, started eating the post surgery diet about 10 days before coming up here and came with a completely confident and positive attitude. You guys get a large part of the credit for the attitude. Your positive support, words of encouragement and prayers of blessing made a huge difference.

Just wanted to let you know your part in this. Thanks doesn't seem strong enough, but that will have to do for now.

I'll post later today when the path report is in.

Thank you all,

Sonny

60 years old
PSA November 2007 3.0
PSA May 2009 6.4
Diagnosis confirmed July 9, 2009
12 Needle Biopsy = 9 clear , 3 postive
<5%, 90%, 40%
Gleason Score (3+4) 7 in all positive cores
CT Organ Scan - negative
Nuclear Bone Scan - Negative

Surgery done on September 17th by Dr. Menon, Vattikuti Urology Institute, Henry Ford Medical Center, Detroit.