The Last Mile

Yup. Been finding other things to do rather than make a final post to the forum, but things are lining up for the moment, so.....

I was diagnosed in May 2016 with hormone sensitive metastatic PCa, all in nodes, no bones or organs, Gleason 10 in most cores. Came off the VISION trial 2 weeks ago after 4 injections and progression, radiographic and clinical (pain). PSA was 65 on start, 5 at nadir, and 18. It was a great summer! I am sold on the med for those who carry enough PSMA receptors in their tumors.

As I write this post, I am enrolled in hospice care, wearing 2L O2 all the time, newly placed Foley catheter relieving a sudden urinary obstruction from 4 AM this morning, mellow as can be right now cause hospice has focused on fixing my pain issues. My opinion: get on hospice sooner rather than later. They come to your door immediately as they can, drugs, devices, social workers, chaplains, 24/7- and it is all paid for by Medicare. These are fine people. It is such an important social function.

I wanted to tell the newly diagnosed something I have learned in three and a half years. I wanted to tell the guys who keep this place going "thank you". This site is essential.

The height of my disease anxiety on this journey is not now, as I settle in for the last mile. I am more at peace than I thought I would be, and hospice is a big reason why. No, my worst moments with this disease occurred in May- January of 2016 as I was diagnosed and began treatments that I knew were only buying time, cure was not an option.

And only this forum and all of the posters who keep it alive, and the moderators who keep it healthy- all of you talked me off the ledge, let me know I was not alone.

NEW GUYS: it very well could get easier as you learn to cope and live with this condition. Spend little time worrying about that which is bigger than you. Grab the moment. They are all infinite and wondrous and beautiful.

to the Forum: THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH.

Peace and best health and love to all of the PCa Posse. Now I gotta go watch football ;-)

rockyfords

Rocky,

Be at peace. May you and yours find the path clear.

Rocky, thank you for even thinking to write such a message to us all. Your comments touched me to the core. I’m so glad that the last mile seems to be peaceful for you. Godspeed.

I'm sorry you're at this place and in pain. What a generous spirit you have to share your most helpful insights at this difficult point in your journey. It gives the rest of us a roadmap showing what we or our loved ones may be facing as well as a way to handle it with practical grace. You're a model for generosity and acceptance, Rocky. Thank you.

Thanks and best wishes.

Rockyfords, may God bless you and your loved ones. Thank you for this post which has affected me greatly.

Great post, rockyfords. All thanks to YOU. And hey, for as long as you remain on This Side, feel free to lend a hand and post if you see someone in need. You are valued.

Not an easy post to read but I am glad that you put your thoughts down and still gave encouragement to other new members. Thank you and I wish you well on your hospice journey. Take care and peace be with you. -JR

Sending prayers of peace for you and your family as you begin this transition.

Thank you Rocky! May God and His peace be with you.

Paul

Thanks for the post, it hurt to read it.

May you find peace brother!

Rocky...thank you so much for this post. All the best to you during your last mile.

Like so many have said, your post has touched my heart deeply. I hope I can face the inevitable with the grace and wisdom that you have expressed here. Thank you so much for sharing your experience, strength, and hope. Godspeed to you.