New PSA results, even more troubling

Your case is unique, David. As most are.

You have had a lot of difficulty with your situation but it should be broken down to two levels:

1> You have had surgery, SRT and now relapse. That is not uncommon at all. In fact I know many that did that and relapsed much faster than you did.

2> The physical challenges you have endured are very rare. But I know a few cases that will make you feel better. Some could say you have had terrible luck. Some could argue that your doctor selection is an issue. No matter, what you have endured physically should not be intertwined in your prostate cancer strategy.

I feel terrible for you at this point. The fact is that you need to get the shopping over with soon so that you can get your head back into the decision making process. And you need an integrative approach. If you are still down on HT then consider a psychosocial oncologist as well. This is a psychologist that is trained specifically on dealing with cancer patients. They have dealt with patients that have certain fears of certain therapies.

Tony

David, I am so sorry. Praying now that just the right answer regarding your next steps will come to you....

Juliet

Tony,

Appreciate your reply and advice, I know you have been exposed to a lot of cases in your advocate work.

I didn't appreciate this quote from you: Some could argue that your doctor selection

My uro has been a saint to me from my first biopsy in 2007 till now. He has actually been there for me every step and every setback in this journey. He was an early believer in the PSA velocity school of thought from the beginning.
I get very annoyed at any attempt of doctor bashing. A person would have to be in my shoes, before they should attempt to cast dispersions on my doctor, or any other doctor. You may not have meant that in your post, but it came across to me that way.
_______________________________

And to you other posters, I appreciate every word and kind thought directed toward me. Thank you.

David in SC

First of all David, the news sucks. As if I'm saying something you don't already know.
10 years ago today, my little sister died of type B lymphoma. In 2005 my father was diagnosed with PCa on a wednesday, and type B lymphoma on thursday. He began chemo for the lymphoma, C.H.O.P. was the combination used. Lucily the chemo put the lymphoma in remission with no recurrance to date. I only bring this up because as a side effect, his PSA dropped to below 3. ( he was gleason 6 at diagnosis) The uro tried to say that chemo doesn't affect PCa. Well, the numbers spoke, and speak for themselves. His PSA is still below 4. You may consider a PET scan with possible chemo? If mine spreads, and I get my report Wednesday, I am definitely going to consider chemo as a possible treatment. Maybe a stupid idea, but to me, my father's results speak for themselves.

David,

You are in our thoughts and prayers.  Wishing you all the best.  My husband has been on Hormone therapy since November of 2009 with no major side effects.  This journey has made us so much closer and our marriage stronger.

Jan 

David-

My heart is so heavy for you tonight and I disagree with you about "being just another schmuck with pc" or however you said it.   You are a friend, and a warrior. You have fought harder than any person should have to and unfortuantely your PC journey has thrown more curve balls than anyone should ever have to deal with.  I have shared my father's hatred of HT, but it kept his PSA undetectable while on it and God willing, it will stay there.  I know what the odds are, but frankly, I'm over "odds" and focused on blazing trails.  Blaze a trail brother.

David,
I can't add more than the others who have already posted. Please make the decision on whom to see now. I agree with previous posting that said no one can predict the duration of benefit for HT. Certainly it must be more effective with a psa below 4 than when it reaches double or triple digits. Look, I love sex as much as the next person, but any chance I can take for surviving longer is worth the tradeoff for me. I would think your family would feel the same way, too. It may not be my business to bring up your family, but I know my wife and daughters want me to do whatever I can to fight this cancer.
May good news start heading your way.

What a bummer! Hopefully you find that fresh set of eyes to look at your case soon. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Mack

mspt,

the ht subject is still under advisement with me. sorry to hear about your parents, there is nothing good to say about any kind of cancer, no easy paths or free rides. i like your 6 zeros in a row, never got to experience that, but happy for you or anyone else with good runs like that.

david

After some thought you will make your own decisions David about what to do about this, but you can hear in the urgency of those who offer advice and suggestions, that sense of everyone caring deeply what happens as we do also, and,  being behind you in whatever you do.  Thank you for sharing your post. Lana & CJ

David. I just saw your report. :( I hate this so much for you my friend. Let me know what I can do to help.

Your Brother in PCa

Cajun Jeff

What I would like to say the moderators would take off for bad words......So instead just sending you good thoughts.

Larry