Phil participated in PCF’s 108 Miles in September and is generously sharing more of his story. He notes that while he has been involved in similar exercise- and fitness-based fundraisers in the past, this time, “It hits you a lot harder….it was a lot more meaningful after I was diagnosed.”
What inspired you to join the 108 Miles in September run/walk challenge?
My recent experience with prostate cancer, from having multiple high PSAs in October and December last year to my diagnosis in February and then March surgery of this year.
How did you make decisions about your treatment?
We decided on having surgery due to my age, the veracity of the cancer cells in the biopsy samples, and the fact that it had not spread but had a high probability of spreading in the future.
What has been most difficult part of your prostate cancer journey? What did you do to help yourself get through it?
All of the emotions, especially early-on before and after surgery. Coming to terms with the changes in my body such as urinary incontinence and ED, which I am mostly recovered from.
How has your experience through prostate cancer changed you?
Allowed me to look at the rest of my life with an even more positive outlook and gratitude that it was caught early and that I’ll die of something else besides prostate cancer.
What questions do you think that newly-diagnosed patients should ask their doctor, early on? What do you know now, that you wish you knew before?
Dr. S. Chawla from WakeMed Urology and the staff there answered all of my questions and they are just really great. But, make sure you ask: “How will my body be different? How long until I’m able get back to my life and the things I love doing? ”
How can family and friends best support a person during prostate cancer?
Just listen to them and be supportive.
How are you doing now?
I’m doing great. Back to living my life as I used to do. I have my own business. I am staying fit walking my dogs with my wife, Becky, working out and playing pickleball and cycling, seeing our adult children whenever possible, staying active in our community, and playing guitar in a band.