My doctor then referred me to a urologist who performed a transrectal ultrasound and biopsies. His diagnosis: prostate cancer with a Gleason score of 10/10.

Hearing the word CANCER made my heart stop for a few seconds. I don’t remember the doctor’s words; I was in shock. I couldn’t believe it. And yet, it was about me, my prostate, and my cancer. It was also the beginning of my fight against the disease.

According to my urologist, surgery seemed the best therapeutic choice, offering the best chances of survival with minimal impact on my quality of life. First, it was necessary to see if the cancer had spread beyond my prostate gland and whether my lymph nodes were affected. Unfortunately, my lymph nodes were already cancerous. This discovery eliminated the possibility of surgery or radiotherapy.

I then began hormone therapy, receiving an injection every three months and taking medication daily. Guess what happened next: my breast volume slightly increased, I gained a few pounds, I shaved less often, and my libido decreased, though it didn’t completely disappear. I almost forgot to mention the hot flashes—symptoms probably similar to those of menopause.

Overall, I tolerated the treatment well. Over the past ten years, I have been able to carry out my daily tasks and have not had to give up my passion for golf.

In the early days after my diagnosis, I felt the need to confide in my family and friends. Some of them didn’t know what to say or how to react. So, when they asked how I was doing, I would say “fine,” and we would change the subject. A heavy silence surrounded my illness. When they realized that I was responding well to the treatments, their behavior changed.

Over time, talking about my cancer helped my loved ones express their own emotions, which allowed them to better accept the situation. But acceptance was not easy for some of my children and friends. Some took longer to get used to it, and at first, there was a lot of anger and tears.

At the beginning of my hormone therapy, I met several healthcare professionals involved in treating prostate cancer, including a nurse who became my lifeline, acting as an intermediary between me and the medical team. She administered my injections and answered many of my questions. She also comforted me during difficult times because, despite my bravado, I remained anxious, and I still am at times.

During this tough period, the nurse spoke with me and allowed me to verbalize my fears and anxiety. Sometimes, she simply listened, unable to find the words to comfort me. But that didn’t matter; I knew she was there. The key was being able to rely on others for support when I needed it. Today, I can still count on them. Even if they didn’t always react as expected, everyone has their way of handling stressful situations.

Looking back on my experience, I see there were many ups and downs, but I never gave up. On the contrary, I learned not to take anything for granted and to enjoy every moment. The past is behind us and will not come back.

In the past year, my PSA level has started to slowly and gradually increase. In a few weeks, I will begin chemotherapy, but in the meantime, I try to live a “normal” life and enjoy life.