The Role of Exercise

Has my exercise program slowed the progression of cancer? Has it helped with the side effects of treatment? I can’t say my exercise program has slowed cancer. What I can say is this. It gives me a feeling of well being and I feel that I’m giving myself the best possible chance to deal with several serious health issues.

Diagnosis to present

The diagnosis came in January of 2015, and I had a round of radiation treatments. The prostate cancer metastasized in January 2017. I had radiation again and started Casodex in April 2017. My PSA has held at 0.00 since July 2017.

My life with prostate cancer for the last 20 months has been much like the Seinfeld show. It has been a show about nothing. However, I know this can change with one PSA report. I am aware of that but in the meantime what can I do? Answers came from another health issue. I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in September of 2013. The neurologist told me that exercise might slow the inevitable progression. I took the advice and started a program of cardio, weight training, stretching, balance exercises, and boxing fitness training. So when I was diagnosed with prostate cancer, I was involved in a pretty intense exercise program.

Get off the couch

Hippocrates, the Greek physician the Father of Western Medicine, said, “Walking is the best medicine.” Today researchers and doctors are saying if exercise were a pill, it would be prescribed to every patient. We have been told for a long time, “Get off the couch and exercise.” We know that exercise is good for our general health. There is no debate that it is good for all of us, physically, mentally, and emotionally. In my opinion, one of the biggest reasons to workout is that it can help keep the pounds off. Those extra pounds are a danger in more ways than one.

What does the research say?

Can exercise slow or help your body fight cancer? Does it help in the battle? The studies are hopeful, but many say the impact is unclear. More research is needed into specifics of what might work. In the short term, the benefits of fitness training can help reduce some side effects of meds or even improve how well they work. Fact is, the exercise won't hurt you. It might help, so why not? My oncologist has told me to keep up the exercise program as it helps the immune system suppress cancer. That is enough to get me out of bed at 5 am to go to the gym. Why not do what we can while we can?

Goals looking forward

Today I feel good and I'm able to do whatever I want. What will I do when I am sick and don’t feel well? I know when one doesn’t feel well it is difficult to go and do in ordinary life. Exercise is harder. I hope that I will do as much as I can for as long as I can.

The quality and quantity of passion, positivity, education, tips, and encouragement expressed on this site are impressive. We are lucky to have this site. When I read what many of you are going through I think I am dealing with nothing. I know my turn will come. In the meantime, I encourage you to do what you can.