A Disease I Manage
When I was told I was diagnosed with prostate cancer and finally presented with a tx plan, 42 radiation treatments, I thought that be it. Before the doctors could deal with my prostate cancer, they found a tumor on my lung and had to do robotic surgery to remove it first. It was benign. I started radiation while recovering from lung surgery. For several years before all of this I have been receiving IVIG every 30 days for 2 immune deficiency diseases. My PSA has been up and down the first 2 years but has been stable the last year.
Tomorrow I go in for contrast imaging. I have a suspicious spot on my left chest. My point is it never ends. I have accepted this. I pray and meditate. I work with alcoholics in recovery. Helping others and focusing on others helps me. I have many doctors and keep my appointments with all of them. I am an active participant in my tx team. I accept that every disease I have can only be managed and not cured. I am grateful for every day and try to make the most of it.
Hi
. You certainly have been dealing with a lot. It is good to hear that your PSA has been stable and that you have been able to advocate for yourself in your care. There is a lot to be said for the power of helping others. My wife, Kelly, was diagnosed with a severe form of an autoimmune condition at age two, 46 years ago and has used a wheelchair since childhood. Like you, she has to be vigilant in managing her conditions, but enjoys helping others where and when she can. I thought you might appreciate this article she wrote for one of our sister-sites on "Feeling Better by Helping Others:" https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/feeling-better-by-helping-others. I hope your test goes well tomorrow and please feel free to keep us posted on how you are doing - this community is here for you. Best, Richard (Team Member)
