Physical, Emotional & Mental Health

[Dreamweaverman]

Hey Fellas, So I am presently scheduled to see 2 oncologists this week. One at NY Presbyterian, and another at Memorial Sloan Kettering for a 2nd opinion. As most of you already know I am now dealing with PSA at 0.7 post surgery in August. My question is if anyone has tried any particular diets, foods, etc to help with recovery? Also, I would love to possibly join or start a support group in the Manhattan or Brooklyn, NYC to address sex and intimacy issues in addition to physical, emotional and mental health. It seems this disease does not discriminate with regards to age and race, and younger men are being diagnosed. Although I have recently learned that men of color seem to be at a significantly greater risk of getting PC than other races. This forum has helped me so much and I want to try and extend my support, as well as receive, the experience, strength, and hope for my fellow brothers on this journey. Once again I am truly grateful for all of you.

[willp4real]

Hello DWM, thank you for your post.

I had a RP in 2011 and often question if I made the right decision. I suffer from ED, intimacy issues and psychological challenges. My day-to-day life has the appearance of normality on the outside, but not so much inside. Everyone does not have the necessary emotional support when diagnosed with PC and post treatment. I think a discussion on diets and foods might be beneficial. I would also be interested in a support group in the to address intimacy issues in addition to physical, emotional and mental health. Thanks again for sharing... wp

[Darryl Partner]

We already have a support group in NYC. There are six meetings per month. You can see the schedule here: malecare.org/nyc

[PCGeorge]

To my chagrin, my knee jerk reaction to my prostate cancer diagnosis was WTH! I've eaten right, worked out and kept on top of my health forever and still get this disease! I am slowly getting it back together and exercising and looking at diet. I still struggle with just how much nutrition can help at this stage of the game. I have seen nutritionists and am pretty much on target. But more to the point, bravo to you on getting two opinions. Personally, my entire life changed when I jumped ship and went to Memorial Sloan Kettering. As I have posted previously, their entire approach, from receptionist to doctors is so patient oriented. Their depth of knowledge and care is far beyond what I received from the surgeon I went to. I can't emphasize enough what they can bring to your life. I hope the same holds true for you.

[Dreamweaverman in reply to PCGeorge]

Thank you George, It is comforting to know that I have people out there who truly understand this experience too. Sending good vibes your way.

[SanDiegoRivers]

Hi DWM:

I live in San Diego CA and had very similar situation to yours post RPT in 2012. I was diagnosed in 2012 with a PSA of 14 and a Gleason score of 8, I was 49. Though initially low at 0.10 post surgery began to double every 3 months. My surgeon had done very successful nerve sparing on me and I was told standard focused beam radiation would damage the nerves and hinder my sexual recovery. i was fortunate on 2 fronts, I had a proton beam radiation facility about 90 min away from me in Loma Linda CA and my insurance would cover the treatment. 5 years later my PSA has stood at 0.03 for the same amount of time. My doc said I should wait another couple of years before celebrating victory. Nonetheless I feel very fortunate. In regards to helping our brethren suffering the same plight. I contacted the LGBTQ center in San Diego and found there was a group that met twice a month at the center. I now facilitate the group on a volunteer basis and work with my local Cancer Society to spread information about my group to local hospitals and medical groups. I am not from a medical background just a layman and survivor of this disease who wants to share my experience. If your local LGBTQ center doesn't have an existing group contact the person in charge of senior services, I am sure they would help you charter one. Good luck and let me know if you have any questions.

[Dreamweaverman in reply to SanDiegoRivers]

Hey SDR, Thanks for sharing your experience and tips. I usually lean towards the positive, so I am hoping after these treatments all will be well. You didnt mention the outcome of sexual recovery, is everything working well? That part makes me so nervous.

[PSV60]

Iam not a doctor, but I have healthcare professionals in my family. After my cancer diagnosis and surgery I was given advice to keep my diet very clean and to stay fit for life. In addition to genetics, Iam reading more and more about cancer being linked to obesity and unhealthy diets...both of which I have struggled with. If you can, incorporate all or more organics in your diet, and eliminate processed foods and strive to keep a healthy weight. If there’s any advice I can offer is to take one day at a time. This can be so overwhelming to deal simultaneously with ED/Incontinence/PSA scores, etc. You sound like you are on the right track in knowing that ongoing support is very helpful in this journey.