One Year Update

It has been one year (Aug 09) since I had my surgery and wanted to give an update for those interested on this site. Just to briefly reflect backwards . I am 54 yrs old; Dr Patel at Florida hospital performed my surgery and it was a very good experience; excellent staff, hospital, recovery. My Gleason was 3+4=7, very small eruption outside of capsule, the margins and lymph nodes were clean. To address the eruption, he had to remove the nerves on one side, others left in tact.

I was back to work in two weeks, went out of the country in October for 10 days and finished my first marathon (26.2 miles) in January 2010. I had full bladder control by mid October and have had little to no issues in that area since. My follow-up lab test have come back <.10 psa. Yes, I am very thankful that I had the surgery when I did.

As far as sexual function, all I can say is that it has been a challenge; more than I anticipated. The main struggle is the mental issues that goes along with the loss of function. You know how much it defines us as a man, right? Well, thank the Lord for my wife and her loving support. I do not know how I could have made it through this without her. I am also thankful for this site, the information on it and the guys out there willing to share it!

I have tried all of the drugs and found the blue pill to be best for me. Following the doctors recommendations, ½ of a 100mg pill 3x a week and a full pill before intercourse. I also use the pump both for therapy (3-4 times a week) and improved sexual function and found that it does make a difference. It is a shame that BCBS does not pay for the medication but based on what I have read on this site, I am trying India and will give you an update on the quality and performance of the products. Thus far it has been a positive experience.

So, a year later, no sign of cancer, bladder function excellent, training for another marathon, and about 70% hardness on a good day with some spontaneous response. I am hopeful that there will be continued improvement in sexual function. I am not going to give up!

Thank you again to all of you willing to share and care for others in the same situation.

Blessing to you all, nb