Another step forward and two steps…… actually no steps back so far (crossing fingers).
I was in for an MRI yesterday. I was happy to get in so fast, only 6 weeks after my doctor requested it at the last check in.
Hopefully the MRI can give a clearer picture of how much cancerous tissue is within my prostate. It can also allow us to be double sure about any surrounding tissue.
But now I have to wait a few weeks for the actual results. Until my Doc can review it and call me in for an appointment…….
This is just another part of the process in the ‘Watchful Waiting‘ or ‘Active Surveillance’ process I am currently in.
Majority of people ask me when they hear about my prostate cancer, “Can the cut it out?’
Unfortunately the answer to that is not quite as simple.
Many prostate cancers are very slow growing, but until they monitor the growth, there is no way to know.
As well, the ‘treatment’, aka cutting it out, radiation, freezing or burning…. can cause long term issues that can be worse than the cancer itself. There is over 50% chance of sexual issues afterwards and also 60% chance of urinary issues.
So part of the decision making must take into account what will give the patient (i.e. ME) the best life going forward.
The initial process is to go through a number of tests (PSA blood tests, Biopsies, MRI, digital rectal exams, etc.) and monitor things to determine the best course of action.
This is called the ‘Watchful Waiting‘ period.
There is no real time limit, actually the longer the better, as it means the cancer is not progressing very fast, or at all.
In the meantime, I can work on lifestyle changes, examine various alternative treatments, and think Positive Thoughts 🙂 .
Some days that can be hard, but most days I overcome……
FYI – here is a link to more info on the Watchful Waiting process >> https://www.prostatecancercentre.ca/calgarys-prostate-cancer-centre-active-surveillance/