November 11, 2010.......tomorrow will be two years I can say I am cancer free! GOD is GOOD. It has been an incredible journey with many ups and downs this past year but I sit here today a very happy and healthy 57 year old man. I have celebrated another birthday, a wedding anniversary and most recently the birth of my 5th grandchild, Katelynn Renee. Last week ALL the Raynor boys got together for the annual fishing trip, it was awesome.
Several men have crossed my path over the past year, Prostate Cancer having become a part of their lives. After hearing their stories I learn all over again how very blessed I am. People ask how I am doing and my pat response is : "I am not 100% but I can see it from where I am". I work regularly (although some may disagree on this), play golf (not often enuf), have been zip-lining and scuba diving in September, walk 12-15 miles a week and have even taken up tennis on occassion. ALL the parts seem to work OK for now and my last scan showed "undetectable" on my P.S.A. levels.
My story is the exception I think, so many others have very different stories. I was fortunate to have been detected early and so blessed to have a great staff of Docs and medical professionals working with me. Dr Polsky - He's da man! Nicole...you are so good and so patient and so kind and I know you will only get better. Two of the angel that made this journey a little less rocky!
So, guess I will come back again next year to fill you in. Till then, I remain thankful, I take the little blue pills like the doc said do for another year (studies now show it takes up to 3 years for complete nerve rehabilitation) and live my life out loud soaking in ALL the joys it has to offer.
MEN....GET YOUR EXAMS !!! Families....make them get their exams, if not for themselves, tell them to do it for YOU !
Love to ALL.... Thank You Lord for YOUR Blessings on Me. MR
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Monday, December 28, 2009
Happy New Year
Friends and Family,
HAPPY NEW YEAR! WoW, what a year it has been too. I continue to be asked "how are you"? I can only say "I am not quite 100% but I can see 100% from where I am". That being said, last night was a new event in my life. I dreamed I was peeing and sure enough when I woke, I had in fact peed in the bed! Needless to say I was disturbed and didn't sleep much the rest of the night. I have an appointment with Doc Polsky next Monday and we will "chat" about that little issue then. I am suspecting it will fall within the bounds of "a reasonable expectation". Anyway, I am not going to fret about it for now and am hopeful it is a one time incident.
Spent alot of time traveling over this past week and a half with no issues. I did cath myself once with no problems. The frequency of trips to the bathroom remain a concern and when the light turns green, it definitely means it's time to go! So far as erectile function is concerned, I think it continues to move slowly in the right direction (no pun intended) and again, I remain hopeful and confident it to will return to normal for a man my age.
Yes, the journey continues. I suppose it always will be a continuing process. I know I am blessed and am NOT one of the 20,000+ men who lost their battle with prostate cancer this year, my family is not one of 20,000+ who mourn the loss of a loved one. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE know your scores guys, get checked if you are 50 years old or have a family history.
It is my prayer that 2010 will bring each and every one or you and your families health and prosperity. May it bring us closer as a global community to improvements in detection and treatment of prostate cancer and ALL other forms of cancer that take many lives every day.
Thank you for your prayers and love......thank you Lord for Your blessings on me.
Happy New Year, Mike
HAPPY NEW YEAR! WoW, what a year it has been too. I continue to be asked "how are you"? I can only say "I am not quite 100% but I can see 100% from where I am". That being said, last night was a new event in my life. I dreamed I was peeing and sure enough when I woke, I had in fact peed in the bed! Needless to say I was disturbed and didn't sleep much the rest of the night. I have an appointment with Doc Polsky next Monday and we will "chat" about that little issue then. I am suspecting it will fall within the bounds of "a reasonable expectation". Anyway, I am not going to fret about it for now and am hopeful it is a one time incident.
Spent alot of time traveling over this past week and a half with no issues. I did cath myself once with no problems. The frequency of trips to the bathroom remain a concern and when the light turns green, it definitely means it's time to go! So far as erectile function is concerned, I think it continues to move slowly in the right direction (no pun intended) and again, I remain hopeful and confident it to will return to normal for a man my age.
Yes, the journey continues. I suppose it always will be a continuing process. I know I am blessed and am NOT one of the 20,000+ men who lost their battle with prostate cancer this year, my family is not one of 20,000+ who mourn the loss of a loved one. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE know your scores guys, get checked if you are 50 years old or have a family history.
It is my prayer that 2010 will bring each and every one or you and your families health and prosperity. May it bring us closer as a global community to improvements in detection and treatment of prostate cancer and ALL other forms of cancer that take many lives every day.
Thank you for your prayers and love......thank you Lord for Your blessings on me.
Happy New Year, Mike
Thursday, November 12, 2009
One Year Cancer Free
Friends,
Hope all is well with you and yours. The seasons have changed since I last posted on here and we are looking forward to the Holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas. Today is just another block on the calendar page for many. For me, it is more important than my birthday, or anniversary or any other special event that has been a part of my journey for 56+ years. Today I celebrate being cancer free for one year. One year ago, right now, I was in surgery, the first steps of a journey that I could not have imagined. Friends (like family) were there with me, encouraging me, praying for me, reassuring me that all would be well ~ they were right. Remembering it all now brings me to tears but they are good tears, it was a time that God showed his love and his mercy and his face to me in so many ways, with so many people. I have re-read this blog a few times and I would encourage you who have walked with me this past year to read it again too. What a great testimony to the power of God. I will not revisit it all on here, I just want you to know what is happening in my life one year later.......... last week I was at the coast with my children and grandchildren fishing. There were no catheters or bathroom runs every 15 minutes like last year. It was great. I didn't catch the biggest nor the most fish but I was there! Life has not been perfect for the past year but IT HAS BEEN !!! Everyday another man is diagnosed with prostate cancer, another man dies from this cancer, another family is devastated. I am blessed, I am one of the "good" statistics. It is time on this journey to say some thank yous. As I read through this blog, that was the one thing I seemed to overlook the most. First of all, I thank GOD for his blessings on me. God has shown up and showed off in so many ways. My family, Brenda did things I would have never guessed she was capable of, perhaps things she never dreamed she was capable of. As much as she loves her sleeep, she spent many a sleepless night to honor her vows, keep her committments and provide the care I needed when I needed it. My sons and their families. They spent Thanksgiving last year in the hospital with me, all of them. Their love and support have meant so much. Moma and Daddy, both dealing with their own medical issues, praying for me everyday, calling often and of course, doing what parents do best, worry about their babies. My brother Dean and wife Rita. They too were miles away in Texas but never failed to call and offer their support and love. Caught in the middle with his Daddy and his brother both in the hospital, Dean did what he thought was best for us all and held our family together when it looked like we were all gonna crumble. My "Florida" family of inlaws who kept the phone lines busy and stood ready to come if asked to do whatever it would have taken to make things better. For my friends, friends like family who were there to feed me ice chips, help in the house when I was weak, keep me company in the hospital, take care of our house, take care of my wife, do the things that only a true friend would do. Dr. Stewart Polsky, the man who literally saved my life. The one thing I asked of him in the beginning was if he would be with me through the whole process. He said he would be my guy through it all.....he was! He dealt with dozen of questions, multiple visits before and after surgery and even understood the tears when it seemed things were almost more than we could bear. He said there would come a better time...that time has arrived. Nicole, Doc's "Gal Friday" who was there for every visit and became not only my primary care giver and doc's assistant for all those visits but she is a person I have come to call my friend. I suspect there are others who have given, some I can't remember, others who never wanted me to know. All I can say now is THANK YOU.
Doctors and medicine are wonderful and powerful things. The support of family and friends is immeasurable. The power of faith and prayer is endless. The belief that you will be OK, you will be a survivor, you are on this earth for a reason and an attitude that always sees the glass half full, these are the things that in my opinion make the difference.
Prostate cancer is not a dead end, it is a detour. I have been on a detour for a year but I can see the main road again. I still have to cath myself each week, I still take medicines but I see a road ahead, not perfectly straight or without curves or potholes, but a road that leads to a much better place.
Brothers, get yourselves checked, know your scores, know your body, arm yourself with knowledge of this disease. Prepare yourself for battle and go into it with the attitude that defeat is not an options. Embrace your family and friends and even more, let them embrace you. Believe that God created you for a reason, a special purpose. Don't be afraid to cry, don't be afraid to laugh. Don't try to predict the future, look forward to it and wake every day in the awareness that you can make a difference in this world.
I will keep this blog active, I will continue to post from time to time. I will pass along those special moments. If you know of a friend, have a family member who has prostate cancer, tell them about this blog, tell them to call or write me. I love telling my story, our story.
I LOVE YOU ALL and THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART.......
"Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me"
Mike Raynor
Hope all is well with you and yours. The seasons have changed since I last posted on here and we are looking forward to the Holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas. Today is just another block on the calendar page for many. For me, it is more important than my birthday, or anniversary or any other special event that has been a part of my journey for 56+ years. Today I celebrate being cancer free for one year. One year ago, right now, I was in surgery, the first steps of a journey that I could not have imagined. Friends (like family) were there with me, encouraging me, praying for me, reassuring me that all would be well ~ they were right. Remembering it all now brings me to tears but they are good tears, it was a time that God showed his love and his mercy and his face to me in so many ways, with so many people. I have re-read this blog a few times and I would encourage you who have walked with me this past year to read it again too. What a great testimony to the power of God. I will not revisit it all on here, I just want you to know what is happening in my life one year later.......... last week I was at the coast with my children and grandchildren fishing. There were no catheters or bathroom runs every 15 minutes like last year. It was great. I didn't catch the biggest nor the most fish but I was there! Life has not been perfect for the past year but IT HAS BEEN !!! Everyday another man is diagnosed with prostate cancer, another man dies from this cancer, another family is devastated. I am blessed, I am one of the "good" statistics. It is time on this journey to say some thank yous. As I read through this blog, that was the one thing I seemed to overlook the most. First of all, I thank GOD for his blessings on me. God has shown up and showed off in so many ways. My family, Brenda did things I would have never guessed she was capable of, perhaps things she never dreamed she was capable of. As much as she loves her sleeep, she spent many a sleepless night to honor her vows, keep her committments and provide the care I needed when I needed it. My sons and their families. They spent Thanksgiving last year in the hospital with me, all of them. Their love and support have meant so much. Moma and Daddy, both dealing with their own medical issues, praying for me everyday, calling often and of course, doing what parents do best, worry about their babies. My brother Dean and wife Rita. They too were miles away in Texas but never failed to call and offer their support and love. Caught in the middle with his Daddy and his brother both in the hospital, Dean did what he thought was best for us all and held our family together when it looked like we were all gonna crumble. My "Florida" family of inlaws who kept the phone lines busy and stood ready to come if asked to do whatever it would have taken to make things better. For my friends, friends like family who were there to feed me ice chips, help in the house when I was weak, keep me company in the hospital, take care of our house, take care of my wife, do the things that only a true friend would do. Dr. Stewart Polsky, the man who literally saved my life. The one thing I asked of him in the beginning was if he would be with me through the whole process. He said he would be my guy through it all.....he was! He dealt with dozen of questions, multiple visits before and after surgery and even understood the tears when it seemed things were almost more than we could bear. He said there would come a better time...that time has arrived. Nicole, Doc's "Gal Friday" who was there for every visit and became not only my primary care giver and doc's assistant for all those visits but she is a person I have come to call my friend. I suspect there are others who have given, some I can't remember, others who never wanted me to know. All I can say now is THANK YOU.
Doctors and medicine are wonderful and powerful things. The support of family and friends is immeasurable. The power of faith and prayer is endless. The belief that you will be OK, you will be a survivor, you are on this earth for a reason and an attitude that always sees the glass half full, these are the things that in my opinion make the difference.
Prostate cancer is not a dead end, it is a detour. I have been on a detour for a year but I can see the main road again. I still have to cath myself each week, I still take medicines but I see a road ahead, not perfectly straight or without curves or potholes, but a road that leads to a much better place.
Brothers, get yourselves checked, know your scores, know your body, arm yourself with knowledge of this disease. Prepare yourself for battle and go into it with the attitude that defeat is not an options. Embrace your family and friends and even more, let them embrace you. Believe that God created you for a reason, a special purpose. Don't be afraid to cry, don't be afraid to laugh. Don't try to predict the future, look forward to it and wake every day in the awareness that you can make a difference in this world.
I will keep this blog active, I will continue to post from time to time. I will pass along those special moments. If you know of a friend, have a family member who has prostate cancer, tell them about this blog, tell them to call or write me. I love telling my story, our story.
I LOVE YOU ALL and THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART.......
"Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me"
Mike Raynor
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
October -- More Good News
Friends and Family,
Hello. Hope all is well in your worlds. Mine is good, real good actually. Went for my normal checkup with the doc this week. I was not expecting to have the "scope" again but Nicole told me with a smile the just wanted to "look around" and make sure everything was OK. (Not a bad idea considering all that I have been through) I was pretty uneventful, I know the drill and there was not discomfort at all. Bottom line: it ALL looks pretty good. Remember, I am still cathing myself 2-3 times a week and believe with all my heart that is what is keeping things open and working great. I asked Doc if that would be something I would have to do for the rest of my life and he said absolutely not. For me, it is a small price to pay and if I do have too for the rest of my life, it's no big deal anymore! But the really good news: blood test results came back and my P.S.A. count was .01, or as they say, UNDECTECTABLE !! WooHoo, God is so good to me. This was my fourth test since surgery and all is well. I had on my own let my script for Viagra go unfilled. In my opinion, I didn't think I needed it. I told Doc and we discussed the benefits of Viagra with regard to nerve regeneration. There have been so significant side-effects and fortunately the insurance company does pay a significant portion of the cost so......I am back on the pill! Bottom line is...it can only help and will not harm me to continue.
All this is great news for me and my family, the same is not true for many others. I spoke with a man yesterday who had a P.S.A score of 44+ and Gleason scores from his biopsy of 7's. His doc gave him but one option, radical prostetectomy and a 25% chance of a cure. If the surgery failed he was told he would have about 6 years. That breaks my heart. This brother is 5 years younger than me. I hope I can be there for him and his family. I know what my story and my situation is/was but that is no guarantee it will be the same for everyone. My mission is to tell my story, spread the word about Prostate Cancer preventions, treatments and cures. You have seen the banner on the home page of my blog, you can see the statistics. PLEASE do not believe "it won't happen to me" because it CAN HAPPEN TO YOU!! Get regular physicals, have your blood tested/screen for P.S.A. and if symptoms present themselves, GET TO THE DOC NOW !
I know I sound preachy but that's OK. I have two sons and two grandsons who now have a family history of prostate cancer. You can count of them hearing alot of my "preaching" as long as there is breath in me!
I love you ALL and thank you for loving me through this time in my life, I could have never made it without the love of my family and friends and.....
THANK YOU LORD FOR YOUR BLESSINGS ON ME !
Hello. Hope all is well in your worlds. Mine is good, real good actually. Went for my normal checkup with the doc this week. I was not expecting to have the "scope" again but Nicole told me with a smile the just wanted to "look around" and make sure everything was OK. (Not a bad idea considering all that I have been through) I was pretty uneventful, I know the drill and there was not discomfort at all. Bottom line: it ALL looks pretty good. Remember, I am still cathing myself 2-3 times a week and believe with all my heart that is what is keeping things open and working great. I asked Doc if that would be something I would have to do for the rest of my life and he said absolutely not. For me, it is a small price to pay and if I do have too for the rest of my life, it's no big deal anymore! But the really good news: blood test results came back and my P.S.A. count was .01, or as they say, UNDECTECTABLE !! WooHoo, God is so good to me. This was my fourth test since surgery and all is well. I had on my own let my script for Viagra go unfilled. In my opinion, I didn't think I needed it. I told Doc and we discussed the benefits of Viagra with regard to nerve regeneration. There have been so significant side-effects and fortunately the insurance company does pay a significant portion of the cost so......I am back on the pill! Bottom line is...it can only help and will not harm me to continue.
All this is great news for me and my family, the same is not true for many others. I spoke with a man yesterday who had a P.S.A score of 44+ and Gleason scores from his biopsy of 7's. His doc gave him but one option, radical prostetectomy and a 25% chance of a cure. If the surgery failed he was told he would have about 6 years. That breaks my heart. This brother is 5 years younger than me. I hope I can be there for him and his family. I know what my story and my situation is/was but that is no guarantee it will be the same for everyone. My mission is to tell my story, spread the word about Prostate Cancer preventions, treatments and cures. You have seen the banner on the home page of my blog, you can see the statistics. PLEASE do not believe "it won't happen to me" because it CAN HAPPEN TO YOU!! Get regular physicals, have your blood tested/screen for P.S.A. and if symptoms present themselves, GET TO THE DOC NOW !
I know I sound preachy but that's OK. I have two sons and two grandsons who now have a family history of prostate cancer. You can count of them hearing alot of my "preaching" as long as there is breath in me!
I love you ALL and thank you for loving me through this time in my life, I could have never made it without the love of my family and friends and.....
THANK YOU LORD FOR YOUR BLESSINGS ON ME !
Friday, September 25, 2009
The Calendar says Sept., the temps say July!
Friends and Family,
Good Friday Morning to all. It is the end of another work week and I hope all is well in your worlds. I am blessed to be able to say "work week". It has been unusually warm this week but I know Fall and Winter are just around the corner. Wednesday was a special day, a day I will always remember anyway...it was one year since my diagnosis! I took the time to read the entries from the first few weeks of this blog, yes....I cried again reliving that time in my life. The same day, this past Wednesday, I visited a friend who's step mother had died of cancer. I could not help but ask again, "why me Lord?" Why was I spared while others are not. I probably wouldn't understand the answer anyway.
The end of PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS WEEK is here. I can say I have not heard a word on TV or radio about it. Nearly 2000 men die each month! For me, that is news worthy! I have worn my blue ribbon proudly this week but will confess too I have not talked to anyone about P.C. awareness outside my circle of friends.
So, a year ago I became a household name to many of you. As the news of my diagnosis spread, God began to hear my name on a regular basis being lifted up by people like you. To say "thanks" seems so inadequate but it is the best I can do right now. I love you all and thank you for loving and caring about me......most of all....
THANK YOU LORD FOR YOUR BLESSINGS ON ME !
Good Friday Morning to all. It is the end of another work week and I hope all is well in your worlds. I am blessed to be able to say "work week". It has been unusually warm this week but I know Fall and Winter are just around the corner. Wednesday was a special day, a day I will always remember anyway...it was one year since my diagnosis! I took the time to read the entries from the first few weeks of this blog, yes....I cried again reliving that time in my life. The same day, this past Wednesday, I visited a friend who's step mother had died of cancer. I could not help but ask again, "why me Lord?" Why was I spared while others are not. I probably wouldn't understand the answer anyway.
The end of PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS WEEK is here. I can say I have not heard a word on TV or radio about it. Nearly 2000 men die each month! For me, that is news worthy! I have worn my blue ribbon proudly this week but will confess too I have not talked to anyone about P.C. awareness outside my circle of friends.
So, a year ago I became a household name to many of you. As the news of my diagnosis spread, God began to hear my name on a regular basis being lifted up by people like you. To say "thanks" seems so inadequate but it is the best I can do right now. I love you all and thank you for loving and caring about me......most of all....
THANK YOU LORD FOR YOUR BLESSINGS ON ME !
Friday, September 18, 2009
Prostate Cancer Awareness Week
Friends and Family,
Hello again, and greetings from a happy, healthy and recovering cancer free man. It has been almost a year since my diagnosis and coincidentally next week is Prostate Cancer Awareness Week. I would consider it a personal favor if every man friend of mine, over age 50, who has not had his physical and had his P.S.A. checked in a year....MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO GET IT DONE!!
And, if ya don't want to do it for me, do it for your family. OK! Sermon is over.
Things continue to go well and improve. Leakage has all but become a non-issue for me. When I get very tired or hear a really funny joke, it may happen but I can feel it coming on and usually head it off. This past week I (on my own) stopped taking viagra in hopes of being able to resume some kind of normal function without drugs. It is certainly too soon to tell but I remain hopeful that the nerve regeneration processes will continue without medications. I see the doc in about 3 weeks and we will have more discussion about that I am sure.
With the anniversary of my diagnosis and surgery approaching (Sept 23 and Nov 12), I took time to re-read parts of my blog. Once again I am reminded of how very blessed I am. Thank you all for your love and support and....Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me
Hello again, and greetings from a happy, healthy and recovering cancer free man. It has been almost a year since my diagnosis and coincidentally next week is Prostate Cancer Awareness Week. I would consider it a personal favor if every man friend of mine, over age 50, who has not had his physical and had his P.S.A. checked in a year....MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO GET IT DONE!!
And, if ya don't want to do it for me, do it for your family. OK! Sermon is over.
Things continue to go well and improve. Leakage has all but become a non-issue for me. When I get very tired or hear a really funny joke, it may happen but I can feel it coming on and usually head it off. This past week I (on my own) stopped taking viagra in hopes of being able to resume some kind of normal function without drugs. It is certainly too soon to tell but I remain hopeful that the nerve regeneration processes will continue without medications. I see the doc in about 3 weeks and we will have more discussion about that I am sure.
With the anniversary of my diagnosis and surgery approaching (Sept 23 and Nov 12), I took time to re-read parts of my blog. Once again I am reminded of how very blessed I am. Thank you all for your love and support and....Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Septmeber 1st
Friends and Family,
I hope life continues to treat you well. I am blessed and know it is because people like you have not forgotten me and believe it or not, even tho I don't write as much as I used too, I have not fogotten you either. It has been a very busy summer, Daddy has had two surgeries in 8 weeks but is home and on the mend now. One of the good things that happened (and there were lots) during our many visits to Greenville, NC and the East Carolina Heart Institute was stumbling across a pharmacy/medical supply business that had on hand, over the counter disposable catheters. I had searched online and found one supplier, Allegro Medical, who displayed one just like the doc had given me in their online catalog. After nearly two week from my order date I called to check the status and was told that item was discontinued. Not a very good experience and you know how I feel about customer service. Allegro Medical is not likely to get any business from me nor any recommendations. So, back to the one I found in Greenville.....it was called Healthwise. They had boxes of catheters on the shelf, no prescription necessary and 60% - 80% cheaper than any I had found online. I am going home with two boxes (60 catheters). And...since flying back and forth and having to deal with the TSA guidelines pertaining to fluid container restrictions, I needed to find some kind of sterile lubricant in packaging less than 3 oz. Hit the jackpot again, got foil packets with 1/2 oz at Healthwise.....a gross in one box for $18. I am going home all stocked up! I am cathing every other day and everything seems to be working fine for now. I do have the occasional tenderness after cathing but it is short term and I do not treat it with anything other than time. I go back to the doc next month for my routine check up and am hopeful we can reduce the dosage of viagra. Erectile function has improved, not back to pre-surgery status but much improved over the past month or so. If that is something I have to take for the rest of my "active" life, it will be a small price to pay but my goal is to be "prescription free". I don't like taking medicine and want to get off all that I can. Dont get me wrong, I am so very thankful for doctors and medicine but just want to take as little of it as possible!
So, enjoy what is left of our summer, I plan too. If anyone needs more info on my new friend, Healthwise Pharmacy, please let me know, I would love to share. Thank you for your continued love and support and prayers and Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me.
Mike
I hope life continues to treat you well. I am blessed and know it is because people like you have not forgotten me and believe it or not, even tho I don't write as much as I used too, I have not fogotten you either. It has been a very busy summer, Daddy has had two surgeries in 8 weeks but is home and on the mend now. One of the good things that happened (and there were lots) during our many visits to Greenville, NC and the East Carolina Heart Institute was stumbling across a pharmacy/medical supply business that had on hand, over the counter disposable catheters. I had searched online and found one supplier, Allegro Medical, who displayed one just like the doc had given me in their online catalog. After nearly two week from my order date I called to check the status and was told that item was discontinued. Not a very good experience and you know how I feel about customer service. Allegro Medical is not likely to get any business from me nor any recommendations. So, back to the one I found in Greenville.....it was called Healthwise. They had boxes of catheters on the shelf, no prescription necessary and 60% - 80% cheaper than any I had found online. I am going home with two boxes (60 catheters). And...since flying back and forth and having to deal with the TSA guidelines pertaining to fluid container restrictions, I needed to find some kind of sterile lubricant in packaging less than 3 oz. Hit the jackpot again, got foil packets with 1/2 oz at Healthwise.....a gross in one box for $18. I am going home all stocked up! I am cathing every other day and everything seems to be working fine for now. I do have the occasional tenderness after cathing but it is short term and I do not treat it with anything other than time. I go back to the doc next month for my routine check up and am hopeful we can reduce the dosage of viagra. Erectile function has improved, not back to pre-surgery status but much improved over the past month or so. If that is something I have to take for the rest of my "active" life, it will be a small price to pay but my goal is to be "prescription free". I don't like taking medicine and want to get off all that I can. Dont get me wrong, I am so very thankful for doctors and medicine but just want to take as little of it as possible!
So, enjoy what is left of our summer, I plan too. If anyone needs more info on my new friend, Healthwise Pharmacy, please let me know, I would love to share. Thank you for your continued love and support and prayers and Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me.
Mike
Friday, August 14, 2009
9 Months
Friends,
Good Morning/Afternoon/Evening. Happy Anniversary to ME ! Yep, just passed the 9 month mark being cancer free...GOD IS SO GOOD. Life continues to improve and things are getting back to some degree of normal. I am cathing every other day now and it seems to be keeping things "flowing" well. Found a web site that will allow me to purchase the same kind of catheters I use so I can have a supply on hand. I treat it (my cath kit) much like my American Express card...I don't leave home without it! It works, it keeps me out of the docs office and is really no big deal anymore. As far as erectile function...I think it is improving too. My last visit to the doc he asked and I told him it requires manipulation as opposed to the "normal" reaction associated with arrousal. Is kinda difficult to explain but that is as delicately as I can say it and .....the doc says, it is to be expected and things are progressing just fine. Full erectile function, if totally restored, could take in excess of 18 months! Once again, life is good and I feel blessed to be where I am in the process. If any brothers or families need info re: ordering catheters for home use, I will be glad to share what I have found with you. The internet is a great source for finding almost anything you need or want.
Thank you all for your continued thoughts and prayers...I love you all and know you love me. Most of all..... Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me !!
MR
Good Morning/Afternoon/Evening. Happy Anniversary to ME ! Yep, just passed the 9 month mark being cancer free...GOD IS SO GOOD. Life continues to improve and things are getting back to some degree of normal. I am cathing every other day now and it seems to be keeping things "flowing" well. Found a web site that will allow me to purchase the same kind of catheters I use so I can have a supply on hand. I treat it (my cath kit) much like my American Express card...I don't leave home without it! It works, it keeps me out of the docs office and is really no big deal anymore. As far as erectile function...I think it is improving too. My last visit to the doc he asked and I told him it requires manipulation as opposed to the "normal" reaction associated with arrousal. Is kinda difficult to explain but that is as delicately as I can say it and .....the doc says, it is to be expected and things are progressing just fine. Full erectile function, if totally restored, could take in excess of 18 months! Once again, life is good and I feel blessed to be where I am in the process. If any brothers or families need info re: ordering catheters for home use, I will be glad to share what I have found with you. The internet is a great source for finding almost anything you need or want.
Thank you all for your continued thoughts and prayers...I love you all and know you love me. Most of all..... Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me !!
MR
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Summer is almost over..... :-(
Friends and Family,
Yes, July has come and gone and the end of summer is well in sight. Summer has been good tho', and I have learned how good life is.
I am doing well these day. When people ask how I am, I usually respond by telling them I am not 100% yet but I can see 100% from where I am! I still cath myself every other day and that is working well. All things considered, I'm just an ordinary guy who survived prostate cancer and has a pretty good life. That said, I thot I would use this posting to list some of the things I can and have done since my treatments/surgeries.....just so other men and their families know that life can and does go on after P.C.
Though I did have a catheter for 6 weeks, I don't have one now.
I can play golf most anytime I want too. (and is most always pretty ugly!)
I can fish with my children and grandchildren at the beach.
I can lay on the beach, have a beer and look like just another fat guy enjoying himself.
I can play with my grand-daughters and a can of silly string.
I can get up at 4:00am to go fishing with my boys.
I can still do the "hula-hoop" on my Wii (up to almost 2000)
I can work everyday in the heat and sun. (altho I dont like too so much)
I can go to the pool with my dear friend and her children and play for an afternoon.
I can attend church, lead Sunday School class and sing in the choir.
I can fly to Texas and spend a weekend with my brother and his wife floating in their pool.
I mow my yard (and weed-eat and trim the sidewalks and driveways)
I can go to the grocery store.
I can take my parents to the doctor.
I can be the designated "hushpuppy and french fry cooker" for a fish fry at the boss's house.
I can kneel and pray.
I can build a bird feeder for my yard.
Friends, there is not much if anything I CAN'T do now, eight months after my surgery for cancer. I know I am blessed and there are those who are not able to include some of the things I have above on their "can do" lists. It didn't all come in a day, or a week, or a month...and somethings are still finding their way back to normal. My point in saying this here and now is to let ALL my brothers and their families know that a little gland the size of a walnut is NOT your brain nor your heart nor your soul. You can be the same man and husband and father and person you were before your diagnosis and treatment. Set your own goals, plot your own course. Don't "what if" yourself into settling for less than you can be. God created every one of us uniquely different to fulfill a special purpose. Our job is to keep climbing the mountains in life...God will let us know when we need to stop!
Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me MR
Yes, July has come and gone and the end of summer is well in sight. Summer has been good tho', and I have learned how good life is.
I am doing well these day. When people ask how I am, I usually respond by telling them I am not 100% yet but I can see 100% from where I am! I still cath myself every other day and that is working well. All things considered, I'm just an ordinary guy who survived prostate cancer and has a pretty good life. That said, I thot I would use this posting to list some of the things I can and have done since my treatments/surgeries.....just so other men and their families know that life can and does go on after P.C.
Though I did have a catheter for 6 weeks, I don't have one now.
I can play golf most anytime I want too. (and is most always pretty ugly!)
I can fish with my children and grandchildren at the beach.
I can lay on the beach, have a beer and look like just another fat guy enjoying himself.
I can play with my grand-daughters and a can of silly string.
I can get up at 4:00am to go fishing with my boys.
I can still do the "hula-hoop" on my Wii (up to almost 2000)
I can work everyday in the heat and sun. (altho I dont like too so much)
I can go to the pool with my dear friend and her children and play for an afternoon.
I can attend church, lead Sunday School class and sing in the choir.
I can fly to Texas and spend a weekend with my brother and his wife floating in their pool.
I mow my yard (and weed-eat and trim the sidewalks and driveways)
I can go to the grocery store.
I can take my parents to the doctor.
I can be the designated "hushpuppy and french fry cooker" for a fish fry at the boss's house.
I can kneel and pray.
I can build a bird feeder for my yard.
Friends, there is not much if anything I CAN'T do now, eight months after my surgery for cancer. I know I am blessed and there are those who are not able to include some of the things I have above on their "can do" lists. It didn't all come in a day, or a week, or a month...and somethings are still finding their way back to normal. My point in saying this here and now is to let ALL my brothers and their families know that a little gland the size of a walnut is NOT your brain nor your heart nor your soul. You can be the same man and husband and father and person you were before your diagnosis and treatment. Set your own goals, plot your own course. Don't "what if" yourself into settling for less than you can be. God created every one of us uniquely different to fulfill a special purpose. Our job is to keep climbing the mountains in life...God will let us know when we need to stop!
Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me MR
Thursday, July 9, 2009
More Good News.....
Friends and Family,
Happy July and summer to ALL. Yes, I know it has been a long time since my last entry. Life got crazy a few weeks ago, Daddy had open-heart surgery, triple by-pass. It was a very physically and emotionally draining experience but all is well now. I didn't get much sleep for 3-4 days but ALL has turned out well, Daddy is doing good right now and I am doing just fine too. First of all, I am less than a week from celebrating 8 months cancer free and yesterday got my lab report that my blood test showed my PSA level as NOT DETECTABLE. GOD IS GOOD ! Prostate cancer can and does masticize into cancer in other parts and organs in the body not me! Not today. No signs that any little cancer cells escaped from the prostate and my system is clean of any cancer cells.
Just as the doc has promised, life is slowly getting back to normal. I am working regularly, playing golf regularly (though badly), work in my yard, have ridden a jet ski for the first time in my life and look forward to a good month with weekends at the beach.
Life does exist after prostate cancer and that message cannot be overstated. Too many men opt to do nothing for fear the cure is worse than the disease. It is my prayer that all men 50 years or older or with a family history of P.C. will get checked TODAY !
Again, I apologize for not updating my blog earlier. I will confess that when life is going OK and things are so busy, it is easy to allow my blog to slip down the priority list. I read it often and remember the bad days in the months past but also see the miracles and blessings of ALL OF YOU, your love and prayers. Thank you so very much and......
Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me
Happy July and summer to ALL. Yes, I know it has been a long time since my last entry. Life got crazy a few weeks ago, Daddy had open-heart surgery, triple by-pass. It was a very physically and emotionally draining experience but all is well now. I didn't get much sleep for 3-4 days but ALL has turned out well, Daddy is doing good right now and I am doing just fine too. First of all, I am less than a week from celebrating 8 months cancer free and yesterday got my lab report that my blood test showed my PSA level as NOT DETECTABLE. GOD IS GOOD ! Prostate cancer can and does masticize into cancer in other parts and organs in the body not me! Not today. No signs that any little cancer cells escaped from the prostate and my system is clean of any cancer cells.
Just as the doc has promised, life is slowly getting back to normal. I am working regularly, playing golf regularly (though badly), work in my yard, have ridden a jet ski for the first time in my life and look forward to a good month with weekends at the beach.
Life does exist after prostate cancer and that message cannot be overstated. Too many men opt to do nothing for fear the cure is worse than the disease. It is my prayer that all men 50 years or older or with a family history of P.C. will get checked TODAY !
Again, I apologize for not updating my blog earlier. I will confess that when life is going OK and things are so busy, it is easy to allow my blog to slip down the priority list. I read it often and remember the bad days in the months past but also see the miracles and blessings of ALL OF YOU, your love and prayers. Thank you so very much and......
Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me
Monday, June 15, 2009
Ugh...trouble during the night, but a good ending...
Friends and Family,
Hello Friends and Happy June again. Man o Man was it a hot, humid one today.
Woke up this morning about 2:00am and needed to pee. Staggered into the can and tried but no pee-pee was happenin'. I immediately got my trusty catheter and within a few seconds, life was good again. Off to bed and back to sleep only to wake again about 5:00 with the same urge and the same urge and the same result (or lack of one). Once again called in the "cath crew" and life was good again. I was a bit concerned and decided to stay up and see what would happen if I hydrated myself good...coffee, juice, etc. Before leaving for work I went 2 more times and things were working well. It was a day of urgencies and frequencies but atleast I could go. I am not sure what happened or what is going on. I can feel a minor obstruction when I cath and need to apply a bit of pressure to get fully into my bladder but it works and for now..THAT IS GOOD !
I am not scheduled to return to Doc Polsky for a month and am hopeful things will get better. I am so blessed that I have been able to do this for myself. Thanks for Doc and Nicole for showing me and providing the catheters. I am getting better each time I have to do it and is almost a natural thing..the key word being ALMOST. I plan to change my routine and do my cathing in the mornings instead of at night, that way I will be up and active and in my opinion lessen the chances of any obstructions happening. No, I still don't have a medical degree but I do know my body and how it is suppose to feel and when it is not working right. Please pray with me that things will continue to move forward and improve and if they remain the same...I am still blessed, I am cancer free and know that I still have a lot of life to live. Thank you all for ALL you do for me, for your love and prayer and Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me.
Mike
Hello Friends and Happy June again. Man o Man was it a hot, humid one today.
Woke up this morning about 2:00am and needed to pee. Staggered into the can and tried but no pee-pee was happenin'. I immediately got my trusty catheter and within a few seconds, life was good again. Off to bed and back to sleep only to wake again about 5:00 with the same urge and the same urge and the same result (or lack of one). Once again called in the "cath crew" and life was good again. I was a bit concerned and decided to stay up and see what would happen if I hydrated myself good...coffee, juice, etc. Before leaving for work I went 2 more times and things were working well. It was a day of urgencies and frequencies but atleast I could go. I am not sure what happened or what is going on. I can feel a minor obstruction when I cath and need to apply a bit of pressure to get fully into my bladder but it works and for now..THAT IS GOOD !
I am not scheduled to return to Doc Polsky for a month and am hopeful things will get better. I am so blessed that I have been able to do this for myself. Thanks for Doc and Nicole for showing me and providing the catheters. I am getting better each time I have to do it and is almost a natural thing..the key word being ALMOST. I plan to change my routine and do my cathing in the mornings instead of at night, that way I will be up and active and in my opinion lessen the chances of any obstructions happening. No, I still don't have a medical degree but I do know my body and how it is suppose to feel and when it is not working right. Please pray with me that things will continue to move forward and improve and if they remain the same...I am still blessed, I am cancer free and know that I still have a lot of life to live. Thank you all for ALL you do for me, for your love and prayer and Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me.
Mike
Sunday, June 14, 2009
June 14th, Flag Day, 7 Months cancer free !
Friends and Family,
Today we should be flying our United States flags in celebration of Flag Day. I am as patriotic as anyone but the greater celebration today is for 7 months cancer free. 7 months and 2 days ago I had surgery to remove a malignant prostate. It is still a journey but I am so much farther down the road now than even a month ago. Yes, I still have some issues and things are less than 100% but I have a full, long life to look forward too.
Today I am supposed to sing in church, a song I have done 2 or 3 times but today it has a very special meaning. "Drinking From My Saucer", a song recored by Michael Combs, tells my testimony very well right now. I am truly "drinking from my saucer 'cause my cup has overflowed."
Please continue to pray for each other. You may have a friend that is dealing with issues that he or she just cannot talk about out loud. Perhaps your heart is heavy and you needs your friends to pray for you. Pray for the sick and hurting and their families. Pray for our children and our nation.
TODAY is a great day! Let's all try our best to live it out loud! I love you ALL and thank you for loving and caring about me.....and Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me.
Mike
Today we should be flying our United States flags in celebration of Flag Day. I am as patriotic as anyone but the greater celebration today is for 7 months cancer free. 7 months and 2 days ago I had surgery to remove a malignant prostate. It is still a journey but I am so much farther down the road now than even a month ago. Yes, I still have some issues and things are less than 100% but I have a full, long life to look forward too.
Today I am supposed to sing in church, a song I have done 2 or 3 times but today it has a very special meaning. "Drinking From My Saucer", a song recored by Michael Combs, tells my testimony very well right now. I am truly "drinking from my saucer 'cause my cup has overflowed."
Please continue to pray for each other. You may have a friend that is dealing with issues that he or she just cannot talk about out loud. Perhaps your heart is heavy and you needs your friends to pray for you. Pray for the sick and hurting and their families. Pray for our children and our nation.
TODAY is a great day! Let's all try our best to live it out loud! I love you ALL and thank you for loving and caring about me.....and Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me.
Mike
Thursday, June 11, 2009
"....like flossing your teeth"
Friends,
Hope everyone is having a great summer so far. I am I think, working hard and playing some and thankful for each day I rise from a warm, dry bed in an air conditioned home, having running water to wash my face and food to have a meal...so many in our world, even our communities are not so blessed.
Health wise: I am OK, just when I thot it was safe to say I am just about 100%, there was an issue. I knew I was not peeing like I should be and had been. My stream was significantly reduced from even a week or so earlier. SO.....off to see Doc Polsky and Nicole. Felt certain I knew before I heard him say the words that I would need another dilation. Sure enough, that is what we did (no valium) and home again and peeing great! It was uncomfortable but not painful. The doc is so good and genuinely regrets any time he has to do something he knows is unpleasant for me. Nicole is ever so sweet, very respectful and kind and treats me like I am her favorite patient....a treatment I suspect all their patients get! Anyway, I am doing good now, cathing every other day or as I need too. I told the doc it is like flossing your teeth, doesn't hurt and only take a couple of minutes but not something I like to do or want to take the time to do. Well, I am still not flossing my teeth like I should but I am going to be cathing on a regular basis.
Thanks for your prayers and your love. Please continue to pray for all of us who have had cancer, for our families, for those still battling cancer and other illnesses, for the wonderful doctors, nurses, and care givers. I love you ALL....
Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me
Mike
Hope everyone is having a great summer so far. I am I think, working hard and playing some and thankful for each day I rise from a warm, dry bed in an air conditioned home, having running water to wash my face and food to have a meal...so many in our world, even our communities are not so blessed.
Health wise: I am OK, just when I thot it was safe to say I am just about 100%, there was an issue. I knew I was not peeing like I should be and had been. My stream was significantly reduced from even a week or so earlier. SO.....off to see Doc Polsky and Nicole. Felt certain I knew before I heard him say the words that I would need another dilation. Sure enough, that is what we did (no valium) and home again and peeing great! It was uncomfortable but not painful. The doc is so good and genuinely regrets any time he has to do something he knows is unpleasant for me. Nicole is ever so sweet, very respectful and kind and treats me like I am her favorite patient....a treatment I suspect all their patients get! Anyway, I am doing good now, cathing every other day or as I need too. I told the doc it is like flossing your teeth, doesn't hurt and only take a couple of minutes but not something I like to do or want to take the time to do. Well, I am still not flossing my teeth like I should but I am going to be cathing on a regular basis.
Thanks for your prayers and your love. Please continue to pray for all of us who have had cancer, for our families, for those still battling cancer and other illnesses, for the wonderful doctors, nurses, and care givers. I love you ALL....
Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me
Mike
Monday, May 25, 2009
Memorial Day
Friends and Family,
Happy Memorial Day to ALL. First of all I will take this opportunity to thank ALL the men and women who serve and have served our nation, many giving up their futures to insure that we have a future. Thank you ALL and may God bless you.
Me, I am doing well. Things are working very well I think and I am gaining more and more bladder control everyday. Yesterday I did not leave the beach soon enough to make it home in time to use the bathroom, it was the first episode in a long, long time. Why you ask did I not just go in the water.....I had twice before but did not want to get wet again at this time of the day....that didn't exactly work out for me either. I know I need to continue doing my kagel exercises and am certain that too will help with my control.
Erectile function has seemed to have plateaued....if that is even a medical condition? I may need to increase the dosage of medications or may require other therapies. I suspect that will be a topic of discussion during the next doctor's visit!
I have missed yet another meeting of the Prostate Cancer Support Group in Mooresville. It seems that something always comes up the last week of the month for me. I support it 100% and regret that I have not made a meeting since my first one. I encourage everyone dealing with prostate cancer, patients and families to find and participate in a support group. Check with your doctor for information about possible groups in your area.
Thank you all for your continued prayers. Please continue to pray for all those affected with cancer and all those who so faithfully care for those of us with cancer or in recovery.
I just spoke with two friends this weekend who cannot recall when they had their PSA checked. All I can say is DO IT NOW...family members...naggin' til they go !
I love you all and thank you for loving me..... Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me
MR
Happy Memorial Day to ALL. First of all I will take this opportunity to thank ALL the men and women who serve and have served our nation, many giving up their futures to insure that we have a future. Thank you ALL and may God bless you.
Me, I am doing well. Things are working very well I think and I am gaining more and more bladder control everyday. Yesterday I did not leave the beach soon enough to make it home in time to use the bathroom, it was the first episode in a long, long time. Why you ask did I not just go in the water.....I had twice before but did not want to get wet again at this time of the day....that didn't exactly work out for me either. I know I need to continue doing my kagel exercises and am certain that too will help with my control.
Erectile function has seemed to have plateaued....if that is even a medical condition? I may need to increase the dosage of medications or may require other therapies. I suspect that will be a topic of discussion during the next doctor's visit!
I have missed yet another meeting of the Prostate Cancer Support Group in Mooresville. It seems that something always comes up the last week of the month for me. I support it 100% and regret that I have not made a meeting since my first one. I encourage everyone dealing with prostate cancer, patients and families to find and participate in a support group. Check with your doctor for information about possible groups in your area.
Thank you all for your continued prayers. Please continue to pray for all those affected with cancer and all those who so faithfully care for those of us with cancer or in recovery.
I just spoke with two friends this weekend who cannot recall when they had their PSA checked. All I can say is DO IT NOW...family members...naggin' til they go !
I love you all and thank you for loving me..... Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me
MR
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Another Day in Paradise !
Friends and Family,
Happy Sunday to you all. I trust you have had a good weekend and a good Lord's day. My week has been busy but thankfully ALL has been well. I have had no issues this week, everything seems to be working properly and I have every expectation that it will continue on track. Work was hard and hot this week and my output was less than what I call usual now but I was doing some sweating this week and feel that adequate hydration will avoid any potential retention issues for me.....that's the way I'm gonna treat it anyway.
Spoke with a friend this week and learned of a procedure he is having in a few days called TUMT. It is the acronym for Trans Urethral Microwave Therapy. It was a quick find on the internet and you might check it out for yourself. My Reader's Digest version is that it allows an intrument to be placed in the urethra (catheter) and emits microwaves that essentially burn away part of the prostate reaching temps of about 111 degrees. This is not a treatment for cancer but more to remedy the symptoms of BPH (Benign Prostate Hyperplasia), enlarged prostate.
Let's all pray the procedure goes well.
I was able to attend the wedding of Daniel and Shelley Black (formerly Swaringen) yesterday. It is good to see young people, so in love and so excited about making their place in the world.
There are many who are sick and hurting, homeless and helpless, poor in spirit and means. God loves us ALL and doesn't miss a thing that happens to us. If you are one of those who feels alone or hurt or hopeless.....remember, as I have many times over these past 6 months the words of Paul in I Corinthians 12:9 "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness".
I pray that each of you experience the Grace of healing and peace and renewal today and everyday. Thank you for your continued love and prayers, please don't stop for me and for others who battle this disease and it's consequences every day. Pray for the doctors and nurses who stand with us in these battles. Pray for the families and caregivers of those with cancer. Each of you who have read and continue to read my story, you are like family to me...I love you ALL, I thank you ALL and.....
Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me
Mike
Happy Sunday to you all. I trust you have had a good weekend and a good Lord's day. My week has been busy but thankfully ALL has been well. I have had no issues this week, everything seems to be working properly and I have every expectation that it will continue on track. Work was hard and hot this week and my output was less than what I call usual now but I was doing some sweating this week and feel that adequate hydration will avoid any potential retention issues for me.....that's the way I'm gonna treat it anyway.
Spoke with a friend this week and learned of a procedure he is having in a few days called TUMT. It is the acronym for Trans Urethral Microwave Therapy. It was a quick find on the internet and you might check it out for yourself. My Reader's Digest version is that it allows an intrument to be placed in the urethra (catheter) and emits microwaves that essentially burn away part of the prostate reaching temps of about 111 degrees. This is not a treatment for cancer but more to remedy the symptoms of BPH (Benign Prostate Hyperplasia), enlarged prostate.
Let's all pray the procedure goes well.
I was able to attend the wedding of Daniel and Shelley Black (formerly Swaringen) yesterday. It is good to see young people, so in love and so excited about making their place in the world.
There are many who are sick and hurting, homeless and helpless, poor in spirit and means. God loves us ALL and doesn't miss a thing that happens to us. If you are one of those who feels alone or hurt or hopeless.....remember, as I have many times over these past 6 months the words of Paul in I Corinthians 12:9 "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness".
I pray that each of you experience the Grace of healing and peace and renewal today and everyday. Thank you for your continued love and prayers, please don't stop for me and for others who battle this disease and it's consequences every day. Pray for the doctors and nurses who stand with us in these battles. Pray for the families and caregivers of those with cancer. Each of you who have read and continue to read my story, you are like family to me...I love you ALL, I thank you ALL and.....
Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me
Mike
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
A Bump in the Road
Friends and Family,
Yesterday was a good day, good in the sense that I celebrated all day my 6th month of being cancer free. Thanks be to GOD for all He has done in my life and continues to do.
So, a bump in the road you ask? Yea, 'fraid so.....yesterday morning I began to feel an all too familiar sensation and my stream when trying to pee was significantly less than the past couple of weeks. Per the doc's instructions, I did cath myself on Monday night (my once a week routine) and I did bleed some. My feeling is that I irritated the most recent surgery site, caused some bleeding and scabbing and created an obstruction AGAIN ! I had to leave work in the morning to come home and cath and called the doc when I still hadn't peed on my own after 3 hours. He suggested too that I may have irritated my urethra and I should NOT cath for a few days. I went on the offensive again and did cath myself one more time after dinner and drank and drank and drank water til after 10:00 last night, popped one of those pills that makes your pee turn a beautiful shade of blue or green and after getting up every hour or so through the night, things seem to be pretty much back to normal again this morning. YEA!...... God is so good.
Hardly a day goes by that I don't hear of or speak to someone who has prostate issues. I encourage every man 50 years old or with a family history.....GET YOUR PROSTATE CHECKED NOW ! If you won't do it for YOU, do it for your family. Nearly 30,ooo husbands, brothers, sons, uncles, friends, neighbors will die this year with prostate cancer. Please don't be one of them!
Thank you for your prayers. Talked with a brother last night and we agreed that no medicine is as powerful or effective as prayer.....and it doesn't have a co-pay!
I Love You ALL .............. Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me MR
Yesterday was a good day, good in the sense that I celebrated all day my 6th month of being cancer free. Thanks be to GOD for all He has done in my life and continues to do.
So, a bump in the road you ask? Yea, 'fraid so.....yesterday morning I began to feel an all too familiar sensation and my stream when trying to pee was significantly less than the past couple of weeks. Per the doc's instructions, I did cath myself on Monday night (my once a week routine) and I did bleed some. My feeling is that I irritated the most recent surgery site, caused some bleeding and scabbing and created an obstruction AGAIN ! I had to leave work in the morning to come home and cath and called the doc when I still hadn't peed on my own after 3 hours. He suggested too that I may have irritated my urethra and I should NOT cath for a few days. I went on the offensive again and did cath myself one more time after dinner and drank and drank and drank water til after 10:00 last night, popped one of those pills that makes your pee turn a beautiful shade of blue or green and after getting up every hour or so through the night, things seem to be pretty much back to normal again this morning. YEA!...... God is so good.
Hardly a day goes by that I don't hear of or speak to someone who has prostate issues. I encourage every man 50 years old or with a family history.....GET YOUR PROSTATE CHECKED NOW ! If you won't do it for YOU, do it for your family. Nearly 30,ooo husbands, brothers, sons, uncles, friends, neighbors will die this year with prostate cancer. Please don't be one of them!
Thank you for your prayers. Talked with a brother last night and we agreed that no medicine is as powerful or effective as prayer.....and it doesn't have a co-pay!
I Love You ALL .............. Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me MR
Monday, May 11, 2009
The First Six Months
Friends and Family,
Actually, tomorrow will be the 6th month anniversary of my surgery and cancer free life but this morning was kinda special for me too. You see, I have been doing my kagel exercises regularly and doing the "start-stop" exercise when I have to pee and last night I went to bed WITHOUT a pad. It was the first time since November 12th last year that I did not go to bed with either a catheter or a pad. I got up once in the night to go and woke at the usual time this morning and all was well. I don't think I will risk working today without some protection but I am excited that I can go to bed and sleep through the night without leaking or wetting myself.
Again, this blog has become more of a journal about how life is getting back to normal than it is dealing with the treatment and recovery of Prostate Cancer. This is a place I prayed for and always hoped I would be and am so very thankful God has blessed me so much.
Am I 100% now....NOPE ! but I am on the way I think. There are still hurdles to go over and I am still on the journey. I talk to brothers who are dealing with prostate issues, met one last week in the doc's office. I encourage every man my age to GET TESTED....KNOW YOUR PSA COUNT! The lack of knowledge about our bodies, men and women, is our greatest weakness in maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. I won't get "preachy" but feel very strongly about this subject.
I have been on the increased dose of Viagra for a week now and see no significant difference in erectile function, however, I am confident that too will get better. The doc tells me I am only a few months out of surgery and doing VERY well. There is every reason to believe normal erectile function can and will return.
I would like to say a belated "Happy Mother's Day" to all the mothers who read this. The mothers whose sons have taken this journey with me, the mothers whose husbands travel this road too. The mothers who are nurses who have taken such good care of me and others with all kinds of health issues, the mothers who pray every day for their loved ones......and for My Mother. Moma prayed for me every day and I suspect still does. Hearing her voice regularly with reassurances and "I love you" 's was the best medicine I could get. Thank you Moma for being the best Moma ever! I love you too.
It is a rainy Monday, hope we get to work today sometime...guess we'll see? Thank you all for your love and prayers, your support and friendship.....I love you ALL.
and.......Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me
Mike
Actually, tomorrow will be the 6th month anniversary of my surgery and cancer free life but this morning was kinda special for me too. You see, I have been doing my kagel exercises regularly and doing the "start-stop" exercise when I have to pee and last night I went to bed WITHOUT a pad. It was the first time since November 12th last year that I did not go to bed with either a catheter or a pad. I got up once in the night to go and woke at the usual time this morning and all was well. I don't think I will risk working today without some protection but I am excited that I can go to bed and sleep through the night without leaking or wetting myself.
Again, this blog has become more of a journal about how life is getting back to normal than it is dealing with the treatment and recovery of Prostate Cancer. This is a place I prayed for and always hoped I would be and am so very thankful God has blessed me so much.
Am I 100% now....NOPE ! but I am on the way I think. There are still hurdles to go over and I am still on the journey. I talk to brothers who are dealing with prostate issues, met one last week in the doc's office. I encourage every man my age to GET TESTED....KNOW YOUR PSA COUNT! The lack of knowledge about our bodies, men and women, is our greatest weakness in maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. I won't get "preachy" but feel very strongly about this subject.
I have been on the increased dose of Viagra for a week now and see no significant difference in erectile function, however, I am confident that too will get better. The doc tells me I am only a few months out of surgery and doing VERY well. There is every reason to believe normal erectile function can and will return.
I would like to say a belated "Happy Mother's Day" to all the mothers who read this. The mothers whose sons have taken this journey with me, the mothers whose husbands travel this road too. The mothers who are nurses who have taken such good care of me and others with all kinds of health issues, the mothers who pray every day for their loved ones......and for My Mother. Moma prayed for me every day and I suspect still does. Hearing her voice regularly with reassurances and "I love you" 's was the best medicine I could get. Thank you Moma for being the best Moma ever! I love you too.
It is a rainy Monday, hope we get to work today sometime...guess we'll see? Thank you all for your love and prayers, your support and friendship.....I love you ALL.
and.......Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me
Mike
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
A Week In "The Holler"
Family and Friends,
...or should I say "The Hollow" as in Quail Hollow as in The Quail Hollow Championship ? Yes, I was one of the lucky 2600 volunteers for the QHC and it was a ball. Best part of it was that I got to share it all with my brother Dean from Texas, my son Patrick and ("my brotha from anotha mutha") my good friend James from Dallas. Got to spend some good time there and got in a few rounds of golf this week too. I am not here to bore you with details of my vacation week but to emphasize that life does go on after Prostate Cancer. It was not a perfect week for me but I did manage to do everything I needed and wanted to do. When the urge to pee came on I made an immediate plan for someone to take my assignment and got to a restroom. I did not have an accident all week. I did see Doc Polsky on Monday and everything is going just fine for now. I was cathing every day and now I can cut back to once per week. That is great news. I am changing the dose of Viagra too....I will take 1/2 to 1/3 of a pill everyday except twice a week take the full pill (100mg). I am in the process of getting off of the vesicare and the colchicine. I don't like taking pills but realize too that it is a part of the process and takes time to work through. I am working this week and really feel that things are getting back to normal for me...GOD IS SO GOOD. I know most of this posting is about things other than prostate cancer but sometimes it is important to let you know that life is going on, is getting back to some sense of normal and the light at the end of the tunnel is getting a little bit brighter each day.
Thank you for continuing to pray for me and for all those that are fighting this battle. Remember their families and support systems.
Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me....... Mike
...or should I say "The Hollow" as in Quail Hollow as in The Quail Hollow Championship ? Yes, I was one of the lucky 2600 volunteers for the QHC and it was a ball. Best part of it was that I got to share it all with my brother Dean from Texas, my son Patrick and ("my brotha from anotha mutha") my good friend James from Dallas. Got to spend some good time there and got in a few rounds of golf this week too. I am not here to bore you with details of my vacation week but to emphasize that life does go on after Prostate Cancer. It was not a perfect week for me but I did manage to do everything I needed and wanted to do. When the urge to pee came on I made an immediate plan for someone to take my assignment and got to a restroom. I did not have an accident all week. I did see Doc Polsky on Monday and everything is going just fine for now. I was cathing every day and now I can cut back to once per week. That is great news. I am changing the dose of Viagra too....I will take 1/2 to 1/3 of a pill everyday except twice a week take the full pill (100mg). I am in the process of getting off of the vesicare and the colchicine. I don't like taking pills but realize too that it is a part of the process and takes time to work through. I am working this week and really feel that things are getting back to normal for me...GOD IS SO GOOD. I know most of this posting is about things other than prostate cancer but sometimes it is important to let you know that life is going on, is getting back to some sense of normal and the light at the end of the tunnel is getting a little bit brighter each day.
Thank you for continuing to pray for me and for all those that are fighting this battle. Remember their families and support systems.
Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me....... Mike
Sunday, April 26, 2009
A VERY good week....looking for another
Hello Friends and Family,
Yes, another week has passed and a good one it has been too. I am doing so good, thanks for all your thoughts and especially your prayers. The surgery seems to have corrected the issues of blockages and retention and when it comes to peeing, things work perfectly. There are still some minor control issues and leakage but that too is getting better and I am doing my "exercises" even as I type this! Erectile function is progressing and the doc has given me samples of Cialis to try and see if there is any difference. After a week or so, I see no obvious difference.
This week will be a good gauge as to how much strength I have back. I will be working as a volunteer at the Quail Hallow Championship and playing golf every day Wed - Sun with my family in from Dallas, TX. I did work a full hard day on Thursday and Friday and by Friday nite, was passing a little blood but none since. Perhap it was an isolated incident ....that's my story and I'm sticking to it !
Thank you ALL for your continued prayers. Please continue to pray for all those that are sick and hurting and especially those dealing with Prostate Cancer. You are the greatest friends and family a man could have. Enjoy the beautiful weather..... thank you again for your love and prayers and..
Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me
Mike
Yes, another week has passed and a good one it has been too. I am doing so good, thanks for all your thoughts and especially your prayers. The surgery seems to have corrected the issues of blockages and retention and when it comes to peeing, things work perfectly. There are still some minor control issues and leakage but that too is getting better and I am doing my "exercises" even as I type this! Erectile function is progressing and the doc has given me samples of Cialis to try and see if there is any difference. After a week or so, I see no obvious difference.
This week will be a good gauge as to how much strength I have back. I will be working as a volunteer at the Quail Hallow Championship and playing golf every day Wed - Sun with my family in from Dallas, TX. I did work a full hard day on Thursday and Friday and by Friday nite, was passing a little blood but none since. Perhap it was an isolated incident ....that's my story and I'm sticking to it !
Thank you ALL for your continued prayers. Please continue to pray for all those that are sick and hurting and especially those dealing with Prostate Cancer. You are the greatest friends and family a man could have. Enjoy the beautiful weather..... thank you again for your love and prayers and..
Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me
Mike
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Friends and Family,
Good Sunday morning...this is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it!
Sorry I have not updated this blog in a few days but it was by design. I wanted to wait and see just how things were gonna be and how successful I might guage the most recent surgery. Well, I am happy to report....IT IS GREAT ! I am able to pee like I did several years ago, before BPH became an issue and certainly better than any time since surgery. I kept the catheter til Friday morning. It was like Christmas morning for me..got up and was setting on ready to get it out. We (B and me) irrigated the catheter and put one syringe full into my bladder, deflated the balloon that holds the cath in place in my bladder and then pulled it out uneventfully. I promptly eliminated (peed) out the same about that was put in with the syringe. Since then, things are working great. I have had some leakage issues and really need to concentrate on my kagel exercises to strengthen the muscles that allow me to "hold it" til I can get to a toilet. I am confident it too will happen. There has been some burning and soreness but nothing bad at all. I have mowed the lawn, worked outside and done most anything I want without a problem...GOD IS SO GOOD !
Am off to church and Sunday School now, confident that I am running full speed on the road to complete recovery. I am however mindful of the many men and families that are still suffering with prostate cancer and related issues that has turned their worlds upside down. Please pray with me for those in need of healing and wholeness.
Thank you ALL for your love and prayers and... Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me.
Mike
Good Sunday morning...this is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it!
Sorry I have not updated this blog in a few days but it was by design. I wanted to wait and see just how things were gonna be and how successful I might guage the most recent surgery. Well, I am happy to report....IT IS GREAT ! I am able to pee like I did several years ago, before BPH became an issue and certainly better than any time since surgery. I kept the catheter til Friday morning. It was like Christmas morning for me..got up and was setting on ready to get it out. We (B and me) irrigated the catheter and put one syringe full into my bladder, deflated the balloon that holds the cath in place in my bladder and then pulled it out uneventfully. I promptly eliminated (peed) out the same about that was put in with the syringe. Since then, things are working great. I have had some leakage issues and really need to concentrate on my kagel exercises to strengthen the muscles that allow me to "hold it" til I can get to a toilet. I am confident it too will happen. There has been some burning and soreness but nothing bad at all. I have mowed the lawn, worked outside and done most anything I want without a problem...GOD IS SO GOOD !
Am off to church and Sunday School now, confident that I am running full speed on the road to complete recovery. I am however mindful of the many men and families that are still suffering with prostate cancer and related issues that has turned their worlds upside down. Please pray with me for those in need of healing and wholeness.
Thank you ALL for your love and prayers and... Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me.
Mike
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