In the spring of 2014, at the age of 60, I experienced a sudden and unexplained loss of consciousness. My doctor then ordered a series of tests, which revealed, among other things, an elevated PSA level. My doctor referred me to a urologist who, after a biopsy, diagnosed me in November 2014 with a Gleason 7 prostate cancer.

After consulting with a radiation oncologist who supported my urologist’s recommendation, I underwent a radical prostatectomy in March 2015, which revealed, upon pathology, a Gleason 8 score.

Facing Recurrence

In January 2016, nine months after the radical prostatectomy, my urologist detected a recurrence with a PSA level too high to be controlled by radiotherapy. By August 2016, nine months into the recurrence, my PSA level had unfortunately risen to the point where bone metastases were detected in three locations, leading to the start of hormone therapy (chemical castration).

When PSA Keeps Rising

In August 2017, as my PSA level began to rise again, I opted for an orchidectomy (removal of both testicles), which was performed in early November 2017. I saw my urologist in August 2017, October 2017, and November 2017, and each time my PSA level had increased.

My wife, my children, my entire family, and I live this reality one day at a time. Since the diagnosis in November 2014, all the testimonials I have seen or read have been encouraging about successful outcomes following a radical prostatectomy or radiotherapy from an initial diagnosis or recurrence. However, I have not found testimonials or support groups for men experiencing the same reality as mine.

Fortunately, I am well-supported by a group of friends, work colleagues, our respective families, my wife, my children, and my grandchildren.

Conclusion

The Noeudvembre 2017 campaign, sponsored by PROCURE, is very important to us. My daughter signed up as an ambassador for the 2017 campaign. The attached photo to my testimony shows me surrounded by my close circle.

I will conclude by saying that this reality must be faced one day at a time, with strong support, and with hope that research will eventually overcome this insidious disease.