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Letters To The Newly Diagnosed

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Prostate Cancer
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Cyclone-ISU
Veteran Member
Joined : Oct 2014
Posts : 1927
Posted 7/29/2016 10:00 PM (GMT -7)
Dear Newly Diagnosed,

You're here ... you've found us ... you've just gotten a new health diagnosis ... and you've just discovered a very CARING CORNER OF THE WORLD.

The members here on this forum are right here for you ... starting TODAY ... to SUPPORT you ... ADVISE you ... LISTEN to you ... and ENCOURAGE you ... every step of the way.

We've got supportive members here from "every corner of the country" from across the United States ... and loyal members from across the GLOBE, as well. Tremendous support to be found here !

Our members check in 'round the clock, 365 days a year ... weekends and holidays, too ! Some of our members come here to read posts and get some insight ... while others actively post the news of their diagnosis and continue to update the members on their treatment experiences, over the course of time.

So ... let's help YOU get started as you begin to wrap your mind around your new health diagnosis ... you've probably been through a full-scale barrage of tests and scans and consultations with your doctor already ... RIGHT ?

You've experienced those anxious moments ... the endless waiting between appointments ... the results of biopsy and lab tests ... those worrisome thoughts ... the restless nights ... and then heard those sobering words from your doctor:

"I'm afraid I've got some unpleasant news to share with you today ... the test results show that you have prostate cancer."

Those of us here have heard those words ... that sinking feeling ... those dreaded words that resound in your mind, over and over, as you drive home after hearing that diagnosis.

From there, my newfound friend, you're probably experiencing what I describe as a whirlwind of mixed emotions ... disbelief ... anger ... fear ... despair ... worry ... anxiety ... and the subsequent tears.

Some fellows that I've talked to describe it as a riding on a "roller coaster of emotions" when they are first diagnosed ... followed by the emotional task of sharing the news with your family, friends, and loved ones.

Most fellows who just received the news will say, "I NEVER expected this to happen to me ... I have been HEALTHY my entire life ... I just didn't foresee this happening to ME !"

Sound familiar ? That's why we're all here to support YOU ... and that's why you just visited this forum.

Now that you've gotten an official diagnosis ... we're here to light some torches to start shining some LIGHT on the pathway that lies ahead of you ... you'll find it truly helps to communicate with others here who share in the same health diagnosis. Fellowship ... brotherhood ... comraderie ... you'll find it right here, my friend!

Here on this forum, we've formed a BAND OF BROTHERS ... sharing our collective KNOWLEDGE that we've gleaned, sharing our treatment EXPERIENCES in the interest of helping others, and forming bonds of SUPPORT with other members, from across the miles.

We have brand new members checking in here today, just like you ... but we've also got members here who have been actively contributing to this forum for YEARS. These members are willing to share their expertise with you ... it's a tremendous network dedicated to helping others. Best of all ... there is tremendous CARE and COMPASSION to be found here ... just when you might need it the most.

Receiving a diagnosis of cancer ... you've just gotten the news, I know ... I've been there ... we've ALL been there ... and we truly realize you need some support RIGHT NOW in your life. We're here to walk alongside you, starting today ... and together, we're going to FACE FORWARD.

With that being said, one of the best ways to start FACING FORWARD after receiving a diagnosis, is to begin forming a trusted bond with your doctor and medical team. Make certain that you seek out top-notch doctors who have expertise in prostate cancer. All of us deserve the BEST doctors we can find ...

As your treatment path emerges, your medical team might be comprised of a urologist, an oncologist, and a radiologist, depending on your particular diagnosis. Work TOGETHER with your doctors ... give them honest answers on how you are feeling, both physically and emotionally ... ask detailed questions ... consult with them about treatment options ... your doctors become lifelines, as your treatment path emerges after your diagnosis.

It's important for me to share this with you today, from one "brother to another brother" ... there have been some significant and important STRIDES in treatments and medication breakthroughs in the field of prostate cancer in the past decade. Prostate cancer research is an active scientific field that has experienced some meaningful breakthroughs in recent years. These advances have led to better treatment outcomes and tremendous HOPE for thousands of fellows in recent times.

On this forum, there is a tremendous ARCHIVE of past topics ... going back many years. Check along the bottom of your screen to look back at past topics that have been posted by members over time. If you have a specific research topic, look up at the top of your screen and find the SEARCH BAR where you can search for a specific topic regarding prostate cancer. Browse, look back, and research as you wish ... it's all here for you to explore ... 24 hours a day.

When I was first diagnosed, I remember reading an inspiring article which stated that this period in scientific history was being hailed as "The Golden Era of Prostate Cancer Research" ... those were prophetic words, because I have ALREADY benefited from one of the newer breakthrough medications for prostate cancer that has now become available in recent years ...

As you begin looking to the FUTURE, my best "brotherly advice" is to stay connected with your FAMILY, FRIENDS, and FAITH ... in whatever form that takes for you.

Build a personal network of support ... your relatives, work colleagues, neighbors, community friends, church friends, and those loyal friends from "way on back" are going to rally around you and support you in incredible ways, as you get started on your treatments.

Sometimes it's good to have a visual image, as you begin to formulate a treatment ACTION PLAN with your doctors. So this visual image might be helpful to you ... here we go ... think of yourself as the leading QUARTERBACK on a football team ... your doctors are now going to become your COACHES ... your family members are your trusted TEAMMATES ... and all of your friends will rally around you as your team CHEERLEADERS, lending their support to you. Teamwork ... support ... determination ... TOUCHDOWN !

The members here on this forum have learned a valuable lesson over time and I'll share it with you today ... despite the recent diagnosis you just received ... there's no substitute for KEEPING YOUR MIND IN THE GAME by staying active and living life to the fullest. Do everything you can to keep busy, both physically and mentally ... keep pursuing your interests ... stay focused on your interests ... keep following your favorite pastimes ... and stay active socially.

I have several friends of mine who now share in my same health diagnosis. Our shared health diagnosis has added an extra level of LOYALTY to our bond of fellowship and friendship. Over time, my friends and I who share in this same diagnosis of prostate cancer have come up with a shared motto ... a motto for living life to the fullest, despite a health diagnosis. Our motto is summed up as follows:

"Cancer may now be one CHAPTER in our life's story ... so, pause for a moment ... and give it its full measure ... but don't EVER let cancer become the title of your BOOK OF LIFE !"

Some words and thoughts to reflect upon today ... with the hope that these words will begin to give you some resolve ... determination ... and COURAGE ... as you begin to look forward towards THE FUTURE with a fighting spirit !

We hope you will check back with us often ... in the meantime, we'll leave the FRONT PORCH LIGHT ON FOR YOU, and we welcome you here today as a newfound friend !

Sent with my very best,
"CYCLONE TEAM FAN" ~ Iowa State University

POST script ~ Over time, other PERSONAL LETTERS to our NEWLY DIAGNOSED members will be added onto this thread, with their letters showing their support to you, as you discover this forum for the first time.

Post Edited (ISU-CycloneFan) : 6/5/2017 6:39:37 PM (GMT-6)

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Mack54
Regular Member
Joined : Mar 2016
Posts : 88
Posted 7/30/2016 6:59 AM (GMT -7)
Well stated Cyclone Fan. Just read this post and I wanted to again thank the members of this forum for their support and knowledge shared. I am 4 months out of surgery and doing great. So to those recently diagnosed, there are great treatments available, and this forum will help you along your road to healing.
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Pratoman
Forum Moderator
Joined : Nov 2012
Posts : 8499
Posted 7/30/2016 7:44 AM (GMT -7)
Cyclone, great post and great idea. Keep this thread active, so it doesn't get buried over time.

"Don't ever let cancer become the title in your BOOK OF LIFE"

Great comment. For me, and I guess many here, PC and soon after, heart disease, became what defined me. That is so wrong. It's natural when first diagnosed, and for a while after. But every guy should fight that. I'm fighting it, with some success, still have to work on it.
But guys need to be aware of it before it overtakes us.
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Wings of Eagles
Veteran Member
Joined : May 2013
Posts : 1060
Posted 7/30/2016 8:45 AM (GMT -7)
Cyclone,
Awesome letter!! Yours is and excellent idea. Everyone, especially the newly diagnosed needs encouragement. I will be thinking of and writing a letter to add to this thread, I know many others will too, and hopefully this thread will be a popular one. Maybe we can eventually add it to the "sticky thread" at the top of our forum! Keep those words flowing Brother, you do it so eloquently !
"Wings"
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Octorobo
Regular Member
Joined : May 2009
Posts : 425
Posted 7/30/2016 5:16 PM (GMT -7)
Great letter!
Good Advice
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celebrate life
Veteran Member
Joined : Dec 2014
Posts : 2111
Posted 7/30/2016 11:57 PM (GMT -7)
Dear spouse, child, or loved one of the newly diagnosed,
Let me first say that you have come to a wonderfully supportive place as you embark on this journey with your loved one. He will be so grateful to have you by his side.
The most important thing for you to realize right now is that he's scared and not really focused. You need to go to Dr visits and radiology appointments to take notes, ask questions and help relay pertinent information. Also, getting as much education as possible is a powerful thing. That's where this forum comes in.
Not only is everyone here supportive, but there are a lot of highly educated people here when it comes to the world of PCa. Some of the guys here have a decent sense of humor too. smilewinkgrin
Hopefully your guy will have a great outcome with no cancer spread or mestastices. If you do, however, find yourself in the role of caregiver, there are many of us here that can help you navigate those sometimes murky waters too.
Keep this in mind, and share this with your guy: Now more than ever there is a lot of reason to have HOPE. Treatments are getting better every day and more men are living longer and with better quality of life. So don't despair. You have an immediate family here that understands what you are going through and knows how scary and confusing this can be.
Ask questions when you have them. Vent when you need to. And share all the successes and setbacks you have in your journey.
But stick around. You'll be glad you did.
Best wishes!!!
Beth
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81GyGuy
Veteran Member
Joined : Oct 2012
Posts : 3130
Posted 7/31/2016 2:24 PM (GMT -7)
I'm going to do a slight variation on this theme. I'm going to send a letter to a newly diagnosed person. Namely myself on December 21, 2011.

Dear Steve:

I suppose I could ask you how you are doing at this moment, but I already know. It's the afternoon of Wednesday, December 21, 2011, and one of the hardest things you've ever had to experience has just happened. You have just emerged from Dr. C.'s office on a cold, dark, rainy day. Very appropriate weather for the occasion, as you have just been told by Dr. C. that you have prostate cancer. You are numb and in shock. No tears, no hand wringing at this moment, just numbness and shock

You make it to the car in the parking lot, unlock the door and get in (at least it's good to get out of the rain), and you just sit there, unmoving, staring at the dashboard. For maybe twenty minutes, maybe longer. Finally you regain enough control of yourself to take a very deep breath, start up the car, and drive out of the parking lot towards home. The constant thumping of the windshield wipers seems louder than it ever has before. You start to think. How will I tell Jeff and Darrell? How will I tell Mom? But most important, you ask yourself, what's next? Dr. C. had been doing some talking, something about radiation, but after hearing the "C" word, it was all a jumble after that. Oh my, what's next?

Get a hold of yourself, Steve, you can handle this! You don’t know it yet, but you have lots of options and possibilities ahead of you! Fortunately for you, Dr. C. called it a lower-grade cancer, Gleason six something, and he said your outlook is not as bad as you might think it is! "But it's cancer" you say, and it's scary. Well, yes, I suppose so, but Dr. C. was already talking about options, such as radiation, and he also stressed that you do have time to make a decision on what to do about this.

You start right now and begin doing a lot of reading, a lot, about this! You've got the whole world of the Internet as an information source, and with your years of experience as a librarian, you will be well equipped to evaluate sources, and start building up a very good knowledge base of the things you will be needing to know and do.

For one thing there are lots and lots of first rate doctors and nurses out there who specialize in this illness, people who will be there for you, before, during, and after your treatment. You already have good insurance, and, if needed, you will have support options available to you through the Veterans' Administration.

Don't worry about the boys and Mom. They are a lot stronger than you seem to think they are, and believe me, they will be more than ready to assist you through this, and to see to it that you will want for nothing in the coming months.

Above all, keep the faith that it’s all going to work out well, because of all the things that you are going to have going for you.

Do be careful in your decisions, because whatever you do is what I will become. But always remember that there will be forces, good forces, at work to make you better in all this, and forces likely more powerful than those forces that would bring you down.

I can't tell you the specific way you will go now, but I do know that I got to where I am right here and now because you made the right, positive choices, as best you could, with what you knew at the time.

If I could somehow come back right now and be you again, would I do things differently? Actually, there are a few things I would change. But as I look back on them now, and as you look ahead to them, quite honestly they will be minor things, while the overall pattern of the big decisions that you will make will turn out pretty well.

All in all, you're gonna do well, Steve.

(I actually found writing a letter to my former self in this way surprisingly helpful, even cathartic. Maybe something others might like to try).
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Cyclone-ISU
Veteran Member
Joined : Oct 2014
Posts : 1927
Posted 8/2/2016 12:36 PM (GMT -7)
Preface To This Letter:

I am a school teacher and I keep in contact with my students through the years. This poignant letter was recently written by one of my former students, now a college student in his early 20s, after he learned the news of his father's diagnosis of advanced prostate cancer. The members of this entire family have been loyal friends of mine for over 20 years.

This letter, from a son's point-of-view ... and shared here with his permission ... is a true testament to his father's fighting spirit and determination, when he and his family received the news of a prostate cancer diagnosis. I am proud to know them as my friends. Read on! (Preface By: "Cyclone Fan")

And now ... the "LETTER FROM A SON'S POINT-OF-VIEW" ... as follows:

Dear Newly Diagnosed,

My dad has, and always will be, the person I look up to most in life. His incredible joy for life is something I've always tried to emulate. I honestly feel like my dad is still more of a "kid at heart" than I am, now that I'm in my 20s. Growing up, Dad has always prioritized us kids FAR above himself. He's been there by my side, for almost every single moment of my childhood ... playing football with me and my friends ... or consoling me after losing at a sporting event ... supporting me through all of the ups and downs of life.

When Dad sat me down and let me know he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, I was absolutely floored. Every single wave of emotion hit me at once, and I ended up bursting into tears once the news had registered.

I can still picture myself, sitting in the room with Dad, just rocking back and forth in the chair, with every bad scenario racing through my head. Then my dad, who had every right in the world to be selfish and begin thinking only about himself and his medical situation, said something that really made me lose it. He immediately started talking about us ... his family ... and not himself. He told me he would fight this with all that he had ... as long as he could be there for his family.

A week later, my parents and siblings headed to the hospital to find out the extent of his condition ... probably the longest and most miserable day of our lives. When we sat down with the doctor and got the prognosis, we were all speechless. I felt like time had stopped and I couldn't believe the words that had come out of the doctor's mouth. That COULDN'T be my dad, who was almost NEVER sick, when I was growing up ... he had ALWAYS been healthy and fit !

For about fifteen minutes, I felt completely HOPELESS ... then something HIT ME ! My dad is honestly the most competitive individual I've ever met. As his son, I'm fairly competitive ... but Dad's spirit of competition is on even HIGHER level. If any person in the world could beat that prognosis, it was DAD.

As we drove home from the hospital, together as a family, I was sitting shotgun next to Dad ... as the telephone calls of SUPPORT started pouring in from family and close friends. I listened to Dad explain the prognosis of advanced prostate cancer, over and over again, to everyone ... the toughest conversations he had ever had in his life.

But I noticed something crazy ... within hours of getting the worst news he had ever received, Dad was becoming more OPTIMISTIC and HOPEFUL, with each discussion that he had.

The SUPPORT our family received over the next few days was truly humbling. I never realized how many people my dad had impacted throughout his life.

Since then, my dad's resolve and attitude towards LIFE has made ME the proudest I've ever been to call him my father and lifelong role model. The greatest thing I've noticed, though, is Dad's joy for LIFE. Dad laughs more than any person I know. He savors every moment and still puts all of our needs far beyond his own. His faith is as strong as ever, and he's taken the whole situation in stride.

My dad is truly my hero, and if someday, I'm even half the father and man my dad is ... then, I'd say I'm doing very well.

Blessings to you all,
A DEVOTED SON

Post Edited (ISU-CycloneFan) : 8/2/2016 4:33:38 PM (GMT-6)

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Cyclone-ISU
Veteran Member
Joined : Oct 2014
Posts : 1927
Posted 8/8/2016 10:21 AM (GMT -7)
Preface To This Letter:

Along the way, friends of mine have also been diagnosed with prostate cancer. One of my friends captured his thoughts and feelings after hearing the news of his diagnosis, in a very meaningful way. His inner thoughts are reflected in the following letter that would be helpful to anyone who just received "the news" of a cancer diagnosis. Preface Written By: "Cyclone Fan"

The thoughts of my friend, who is also a fellow prostate cancer patient, are written here in the following letter:

DEAR NEWLY DIAGNOSED,

When I was first diagnosed, I wanted to FIGHT ... after the initial shock of the diagnosis ...

In a way, while it's not how I would want it, I've taken the cancer diagnosis as a wake-up call to LIVE MY LIFE ... to enjoy, cherish, and value every last second. Family, friends, and just being SOCIAL ... are all so important ...

I think the adjustment to life after receiving a health diagnosis is two-fold. First, I think I have to personally accept this. I'm not saying I haven't, it's just so new, and I feel like I am in a DAZE periodically. Right now, prostate cancer ... at some form, at some level ... is always on my mind. That's where the mental toll sets in.

Secondly, as you already know, the biggest key is NOT letting cancer dictate your life. You still have to LIVE IT. I have so many people offering to help me ... it's overwhelming ... I am still taking care of myself ... while their intentions in offering their help to me are righteous, I just want to be normal.

So ... it's a difficult balancing act between accepting help and remaining independent, and knowing WHEN to accept help. I want to live my life with normalcy and NO REGRETS. One of the biggest things I tell people is that I won't let this change how I live. I'm still going to do the things I want to do and always did before I was diagnosed.

There might be a new "normal" in some respects, now that I have a cancer diagnosis, but as far as living, that isn't going to change. I just keep staying ACTIVE ... and I'm grateful for EACH day I've been given and to continue to see them as blessings.

I have "up and down" days, of course ... you know how that is ... just part of the cycle. I'm feeling GREAT ... if I didn't know it, I would never guess that I'm "sick" ... so to speak. Too many men feel the need to keep things bottled up and they face the battle alone. There ARE many resources out there for help ... we just have to open up and use them, when we need them.

We are all STRONG inside, but in the same regard, we break down sometimes. Every individual has to find their outlet ... how they can release ... and escape sometimes.

In the end, you have to ultimately make sure you are taking care of yourself. You have to make sure you are in a good place, emotionally .... a prostate cancer diagnosis is so much about LIFE, in that it's complicated ... and it's about balance.

So ... with the start of my treatments, and the support of my family and friends, I'm pulling out of my funk that I felt when I was first diagnosed. In my case, my work has been great and is such a stress reliever.

I feel ALL the energy from the positive thoughts and prayers of others, and I truly believe it's helping me heal. That's all ... just living the MOMENTS OF LIFE !

My thoughts and prayers to you on your own recovery path ... we are now BROTHERS ...

Continued health and healing to you,
YOUR FRIEND

Post Edited (ISU-CycloneFan) : 8/12/2016 6:19:03 PM (GMT-6)

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CaliJR
Veteran Member
Joined : May 2015
Posts : 775
Posted 8/9/2016 2:56 PM (GMT -7)
Dear Newly Diagnosed.

I was asked to write a letter to you. I was nervous about this at first as I don’t consider myself a writer, but I know it is not about that, it is about giving you some guidance during this important time of your life.

First off, I can tell you one thing, getting diagnosed with cancer sucks. It does throw you for a loop and it takes time to absorb it and then communicate with your family. But now is the time to take control of your disease and figuring out what treatment plan you will want. You can start by researching as much as you can about this new disease. What is the best treatment plan for you – what is the best doctor for that treatment plan – what side effects can you tolerate with your treatment plan. Maybe, if you are one of the lucky ones, maybe you can do active surveillance and delay any treatments or side effects. If not, what questions do you ask the doctors on your consult? Many of the standard questions to ask your Urologist (Surgeon) or your Radiation Oncologist can be found here on HealingWell. Do you need a medical oncologist? Might be worth having a consult with one who could be your primary doctor during your treatment plan. You will spend time reading on here and many places online about what is right for you. But you need to know that everyone is different. Because one treatment plan worked for one person doesn’t mean it work for you. Discuss your concerns and thoughts with each doctor you consult with and make a decision YOU can live with. Yes, all the treatment plans have side effects, some short lived, some that hang around longer. But walk forward each day and give it your best to fight the beast. Be positive, stay active, keep as much of your work and hobbies going. Blend your treatments into your normal life. Keep your spouse or significant others in the loop on what is going on. Their support is invaluable as you go through this journey.

I wish you luck on your treatment journey. Please take care, ask us questions, and keep us posted.

We are here to help! -JR
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Cyclone-ISU
Veteran Member
Joined : Oct 2014
Posts : 1927
Posted 8/12/2016 4:14 PM (GMT -7)
PREFACE TO THIS LETTER:

Over time, other friends of mine have also been diagnosed with prostate cancer. This letter is from the WIFE of one of my friends, with her perspective on what they have faced TOGETHER AS A COUPLE after receiving the news of her husband's diagnosis of prostate cancer. I have been friends with both of them for many years, and felt the viewpoint that she shared in her letter would be very beneficial to others just receiving the news of a prostate cancer diagnosis. She wanted to share HER thoughts and feelings with others, and it is shared her with her permission, in the interest of reaching out to others who have just been newly diagnosed. Preface Written By: "CYCLONE FAN"

With That Said ... Here Is The Letter From My Friend's WIFE, Sharing Her Thoughts And Point-Of-View:

DEAR NEWLY DIAGNOSED,

In recent months, my husband was suddenly diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer. It might be HELPFUL for someone out there to read what it is like for a spouse or caregiver to hear this news.

To be honest with you, when my husband FIRST received the diagnosis, I was AMAZED how long it took someone at the hospital to even say the word CANCER.

It seems like it was a WHIRLWIND for about two weeks ... TRYING to get the diagnosis ... and going to SO MANY doctor's appointments. We literally received the diagnosis on a Wednesday and on Thursday, my husband immediately started chemotherapy with simultaneous hormone therapy.

One we started the treatment, we had a PLAN. This WAS our MISSION or MEDICAL PLAN, at last !

My husband began six chemotherapy treatments, once every three weeks ... followed by radiation for bone pain and additional radiation for cancer spots. After each treatment, we both had this feeling of "NOW WHAT?"

Our medical PLAN kept changing over time ... that is hard to get used to, because you want to feel like you are always doing SOMETHING to attack the cancer. Waiting for test results and appointments is stressful ...

As a wife and caregiver, I have a few suggestions for others who are devoted to a newly diagnosed cancer patient:

FIRST, go to as MANY appointments with your loved one as possible. I have been to every one of my husband's appointments except one in this last year. Fortunately, I have been able to coordinate the arrangements with my place of work, in order to be there for my husband. Sometimes, it has not been easy ... but I MAKE IT WORK. It is vital that more than one set of ears hear the information from the doctors and to give SUPPORT to your loved one.

SECOND, I made a spreadsheet for my husband to record all of the different medications he is taking. He would record when he took each medication, and the different side effects he experienced over time. The schedule of all of his different medications became confusing, and I wanted to be sure we kept track of EVERYTHING, especially during his treatments. I might be a "Type A" personality compared to others, but this system of tracking my husband's medications each day worked for us. We felt we couldn't completely control the cancer, perhaps, but we could control the record keeping ! After a full year, my husband is still dedicated to his medication log and keeps on top of it faithfully.

THIRD, take care of YOURSELF, too ! When my husband was diagnosed, I was distraught. My husband and I have no children ... it is just the TWO OF US ... and we have been together since we were 18 years old. It was always "us against the world" ... so, when I was feeling so distraught, I went to my own primary care physician and I started to take anti-anxiety pills, due to high stress levels. I am so thankful for that and it has helped me tremendously. Do I want to take anti-anxiety pills forever ? No ... but for now, it helps me.

As a spouse or caregiver, it is SO IMPORTANT to take care of yourself --- get a massage, a pedicure, take a walk, read a magazine, or visit with friends.

I have to say that FRIENDS and FAMILY have been so vital in our life. Actually, visiting with friends and family and having some fun outings are important for BOTH OF US.

And finally, FOURTH ... do NOT be afraid to get second opinions on anything along the way. Others encouraged my husband and I to do this, and it has opened up different treatments and information for both of us.

It has now been about 17 months since my husband's initial diagnosis of advanced prostate cancer ... every month, we go to the doctor for blood work in the lab and P.S.A. tests ... ongoing LUPRON and XGEVA treatments ... along with occasional trips out-of-state to see a prostate cancer specialist.

LIVING with cancer ... it has become the "new normal" ... as they say !

You have to KEEP MOVING ... KEEP LIVING ... and KEEP FIGHTING !

Sent with all my very best,
FROM A DEVOTED WIFE & CAREGIVER

Post Edited (ISU-CycloneFan) : 8/12/2016 7:06:09 PM (GMT-6)

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Cyclone-ISU
Veteran Member
Joined : Oct 2014
Posts : 1927
Posted 8/14/2016 11:49 AM (GMT -7)
PREFACE TO THIS LETTER: My father is also a prostate cancer patient, walking right alongside me. It's an unexpected "twist of irony" in our connection as son and father ! I have always had tight bonds with all of my family members, but this shared diagnosis between "father and son" has drawn Dad and I even CLOSER together, beyond all words to describe.

My dad wanted to write a letter to the newly diagnosed for all of us here, because he has overcome incredible odds. Knowing a bit of his story will make his letter even more powerful to anyone who reads it. When my dad was 50 years old, he was unexpectedly diagnosed with acute leukemia. His case was critical, and he was not expected to live.

I am the oldest child in my family, and Dad asked me to always watch over my siblings and to take care of my mother, in the event of his passing. He was hospitalized, 'round the clock, for 100 continuous days ... receiving experimental chemotherapy, in a desperate attempt to save his life. With leukemia racing through his body, it was a race against time from the moment he arrived at the hospital ... he had been the picture of health his entire life. We hear that so statement so often, don't we ?

I was a young school teacher then, just getting started in my teaching career, and this happened to my dad during the summertime when school was out ... so, I sat by my dad's hospital bedside for 100 days in a row, and sometimes through the night when things looked bleak, encouraging him to keep "pulling through" ...

Throughout that summer, a tremendous bond was formed between us during those 100 "life on the line" days, in ways that have become even more meaningful today. I could NEVER have foreseen how important that bond would become to both of us now, and the pathways that BOTH of our lives have taken ever since ...

Even though Dad faced very grim odds of survival, I noticed that my father seemed to have incredible resolve, courage, and HOPE. Incredible HOPE ! HOPE?!! Really ?!!?!! Sometimes I didn't understand that HOPE that HE HELD ONTO EACH DAY ... his case APPEARED so hopeless, to be honest ... often, his doctors spoke to me behind-the-scenes when there was bad news from the lab reports during those 100 days ... as the relentless rounds of chemotherapy infusions dripped through his veins, day after day after day ... drop by drop by drop.

I knew what the doctors were saying ... I was told the slim medical probabilities of his survival. They kept saying, "You're his oldest son, right? Well, the news isn't good today, I'm sorry to say." HOPE is a powerful thing, as I discovered that summer ... life lesson here ... for all of us. Dad showed me that in incredible ways during that summer ... the POWER OF HOPE for the newly diagnosed.

Honestly, there were times when I wanted to take those dreaded infusion needles out of Dad's veins with my bare hands myself, pack up his suitcase, tell his doctors we were LEAVING, and drive Dad 100 miles back to my HOMETOWN where my parents still live, instead of enduring one more minute of those treatments. Instead, I gritted my teeth ... practiced PATIENCE ... and watched the chemo infusions, as they continued ... drip ... drip ... drip ... and I kept hoping those endless drips would somehow save his life. Would ONE of those drips of chemotherapy chemicals be the one that started saving his life ? Was it possible ?

Newfound HOPE arrived ... each day ... in the form of notes and cards and letters from friends and family members in the mail ... we read those cards and letters countless times ... more cards arrived each day ... and I learned the value of SUPPORT FROM OTHERS in their words. It came from the people Dad and I had both known our entire lives ... the CIRCLE OF SUPPORT ... words, penmanship, encouragement, verses, postate stamp, mailbox ... care, concern, compassion, courage ... HOPE !

Dad's personal mantra for living was always stated to me in these words, "Son, the SECRET to LIFE is ENDURANCE. Don't ever forget that ... ENDURANCE !" I grew up hearing him say that countless times through my boyhood years ... never were those words more needed than that summer ...

Miraculously, Dad pulled through his bout with leukemia ... and SURVIVED ! He is a shining example put before me today, in my OWN journey with cancer ...

A few years ago, Dad was suddenly diagnosed with cancer once again, when he was in his early 60s ... this time, it was prostate cancer. He had surgery and has been watched over very carefully ever since.

Just a few years later, the tables were turned, and I was diagnosed with prostate cancer in my 40s ... my dad providing INCREDIBLE support to me when I first heard the news, based on his own medical journey. In fact, he was there standing beside me in the doctor's office when I received the news of my own prostate cancer diagnosis. A new school year had just started for me. I drew from HIS strength, standing there next to my dad in that moment.

My dad's urologist and oncologist are both incredible doctors. Based on my father's experiences, I chose both of those doctors for my own case ... and they have continued to help both my father and me in incredible ways, now that we both have faced a prostate cancer diagnosis. Together, Dad and I have formed an incredible bond with our shared doctors.

Something I saw my father doing, even during those darkest days when he was hospitalized with leukemia over 20 years ago ... even when his own future was so unknown and so uncertain ... Dad ALWAYS reached out to other patients, young and old and in-between ...he talked to them ... he listened to their story ... he showed tremendous heart and concern for their well-being ... and he prayed for them. I was amazed that he focused on OTHERS ... instead of himself ... in the face of his own life-threatening diagnosis. It was a powerful life lesson, put in front of my eyes ...

Now that I also "walk in his shoes" in terms of facing a cancer diagnosis, I look to Dad as an example and his unwavering belief in reaching out to others. In reaching out to others, he discovered from his own experience ... you are somehow helped, in fair return.

When Dad heard about this letter writing project, realizing he has been LIVING A FULL LIFE for over 20 years since first being diagnosed with cancer, he IMMEDIATELY wanted to share his thoughts with those who just received the news of their own cancer diagnosis. In the past few years he often says to me when I'm visiting my hometown, "Today has been a GREAT day ... I just LOVE living life."

Reading my father's letter written below was an incredible gift to me, as well, because of the lifelong bond we have shared over time ... and how my father and I are now drawn together in yet another way because of our shared prostate cancer diagnosis. My father's letter follows below, in the hopes it will reach others who will benefit from my father's strong belief in the power of HOPE and finding one's own PERSONAL STRENGTH.

Indeed, Dad, the secret to living life HAS been endurance, just as you always said. You see, Dad ... I WAS listening all those years ago ! (Preface Written By: "Cyclone Fan")

Here Is My Father's Letter To Those Who Just Received A Cancer Diagnosis ...

Dear Son,

I sat down today to write a letter to THE NEWLY DIAGNOSED ... this is for each one of them and their families, friends, and loved ones ...

Normal reactions to the trials of life are commonly met with DISBELIEF and FEAR. However, we are all human and some emotions and fears are too powerful to be contained, even with a strong personal faith, after one's initial disbelief is accepted.

Quite unexpectedly, over twenty years ago ... at the age of 50 years old ... I was suddenly pushed into the WORLD OF CANCER and the distinct possibility of passing away with acute leukemia. In more recent years, I was also diagnosed with prostate cancer.

To be honest, the fear of leaving behind all of those you love is so overpowering ... so, you begin DAY ONE finding out EVERYTHING you can about the unwelcome INTRUDER in your life, known as cancer.

You FIGHT BACK ... each and EVERY DAY ... to beat the odds you have been assigned. Along the way ... you doubt ... you cry ... you fear ... AND ... you HOPE !

Along the way ... you NEVER GIVE UP ! You DO WHATEVER IT TAKES ... to endure another treatment ... to sit through one more dosage of chemo ... to put yourself through one more scan ... to take one more pill ... and you PRAY. Pray without ceasing ... for yourself and for OTHERS !

With these words I've shared with you today, my friends ... you'll know IN YOUR HEART ... that YOU will be THE ONE to beat the odds !

Written in the spirit of reaching out to others,
DAD ("Cyclone's Father")


EPILOGUE: There's a bit more to tell you, now that my dad has written his letter to the newly diagnosed. Over time, as I began my own treatments for prostate cancer, the story of "father and son" BOTH being diagnosed and treated for prostate cancer began to spread widely across my Midwestern hometown. Six generations of my family have lived in the same county for over 100 years, and my father and I know almost every family in the area. Realizing that together we represented TWO GENERATIONS of men, Dad and I realized that our story had the potential to reach a wide range of other fellows who also faced a prostate cancer diagnosis ... and to encourage other fellows to stay vigilant in their own health and to stay up-to-date with doctor visits and regular physicals.

Since then, Dad and I have found ways to communicate, support, and "reach out" to others from my hometown area. We've shared our stories ... offered some medical advice, when asked ... given recommendations for follow-up care ... shared the names of the doctors who have continued to treat both of us ... visited other prostate cancer patients ... sent cards and letters and messages of support ... had "one brother to another brother" talks with them ... and advocated the importance of practicing due diligence in regard to men's health.

Over time, Dad and I have talked to family friends ... church members ... neighbors ... our relatives ... the fellows at the coffee shop ... my old college roommates ... work colleagues ... old classmates from high school ... "one fellow to another fellow" conversations ...

When I'm back visiting in my hometown, Dad and I have reached out to other fellows in coffee shops ... local pubs and cafes ... church gatherings ... the local barber shop ... the bank ... the post office ... the grocery store ... sporting events ... the country club at the golf course ... and downtown on "Main Street" where happenstance conversations often occur in smaller communities.

Since then, other family friends have gone for check-ups with their doctor and some of them are also currently being treated for prostate cancer, following their own diagnosis. This forum is a shining example of that every single day ... "one brother to another brother" ... REACHING OUT !

To this day, my dad treasures a large CARDBOARD BOX ... still filled with the original cards and letters of support he received during those 100 days he spent in the hospital over 20 years now. There's a lot of HOPE inside that box, believe me ! Meanwhile ... thanks for the letter, DAD, and much more than words can EVER say !

Post Edited (ISU-CycloneFan) : 11/16/2016 10:46:37 AM (GMT-7)

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Newton451
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Posts : 553
Posted 8/14/2016 11:56 AM (GMT -7)
Words worth reading. Thanks for sharing.
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NashvilleNerd
New Member
Joined : Feb 2016
Posts : 8
Posted 8/14/2016 2:34 PM (GMT -7)
Thank you for sharing these thoughts from different vantage points. I, too, am a second generation pc patient. I just recently found out that my birth father has been battling this cancer for about ten years. My story is far different than yours. I haven't seen my father since the age of five. I'm thankful you have such a great relationship with your father. I'm sure it is very meaningful and helpful.
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Paxton
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Joined : Aug 2016
Posts : 1386
Posted 8/15/2016 6:36 AM (GMT -7)
Just. . . WOW!

Such wisdom. Such heartfelt desire to help. Although these bring tears to my eyes (as one of the newest members here), I read them as if each is written to me alone. Thank you all.

Although my own story is still in the making, I hope that some day I can add a letter to those who will follow me in The Journey. I have done this in other support forums, and feel that the sharing of personal experiences and feelings is one of the most selfless things we can do for others.

I'll be around.
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Cyclone-ISU
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Joined : Oct 2014
Posts : 1927
Posted 9/18/2016 2:33 PM (GMT -7)
PREFACE TO THIS LETTER:

Once the news of a health diagnosis begins to sink in, the people in our lives begin to rally around us, lending their emotional and moral support.

Their heartfelt support is priceless ... family, friends, work colleagues, neighbors, community members, old high school classmates, old college roommates, college fraternity brothers, church friends, golfing partners, fishing & hunting buddies, poker club buddies, old sports teammates from "way on back" ... those loyal, trusted, true-blue COMRADES that come forward to truly support you.

When I first got diagnosed, I kept focused on my teaching career ... my work became a rock of salvation, as I began to wrap my mind around the news of my prostate cancer diagnosis.

My diagnosis came shortly after a fun-filled gathering for my 30th high school class reunion ... and I was just getting started with a brand new group of students for "Back To School" time ... ironic timing, to be sure ... but my teaching colleagues and students rallied around me ... and I worked hard to stay focused on LIVING LIFE as usual.

One evening, after school, a work colleague who is a close friend of mine at the school where I teach came into my classroom. Everyone else had gone home for the evening, and I was working on some projects ...

My work colleague said, "I know that you have faced some very tough news lately ... I can't even begin to fathom what you must be going through, but I'm mindful of everything you must be facing, behind-the-scenes. I just want you to know I think about you all the time, I pray for you every day, and will do anything to support you, going forward."

It was a heartfelt, meaningful conversation. My colleague has worked side-by-side with me for many years, and she spoke to me in a voice that cracked with emotion.

My work colleague said, "I've got a card that I wrote out for you, but I just wanted to let you know ... despite everything you must be going through ... I just wanted to tell you that even though I know you have cancer, you are definitely finding a way to LIVE YOUR LIFE with cancer."

I'll never forget those words ... or the impact they had upon me ! I realized that that my colleague's words WERE somehow true ... and that, day by day, I WAS finding a way to CARRY FORWARD ... despite those rough moments and rough days we ALL experience, from time-to-time.

The card my friend handed me meant more to me than words can ever say. I keep it with me, and have read the words that she wrote to me countless times. Her words continue to inspire me. Her written sentiments could certainly inspire others.

It reminds me that we need to somehow find the words, find our voice, and connect with others when they are facing times of need.

What my teaching colleague wrote is a testament to the POWER OF FRIENDSHIP in our lives, and a reminder to all of us to keep reaching out and connecting with others ...

Life lesson here for anyone here with a new health diagnosis: seek out those LOYAL FRIENDS who are going to support you ... through thick and thin, through storms and sunshine, through setbacks and successes ...

Here is the card I received from my work colleague, who is also a loyal and steadfast friend ...

The card she wrote to me reads as follows:

"Promise me, you'll never think, even for one tiny little second, that you're going through this alone. Because you're not. You've got me. And I'm not going anywhere."

In cursive script, my friend wrote this heartfelt message of support to me:

"Just remember ... I am standing right beside you in this ...

I will be here:

To LAUGH with you ...
To SUPPORT you ...
To LISTEN to you ...
To ENCOURAGE you ...
To HELP you ...
To sit QUIETLY with you ...
To LEARN with you ...
To CRY with you ...
To PRAY with you ...
To HOPE with you ...

I am here for you, day or night ... on a weekend ... on a holiday ... any minute, of any day ... any time, any place ...

I AM HERE FOR YOU !"

Post Edited (ISU-CycloneFan) : 9/18/2016 7:30:57 PM (GMT-6)

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NashvilleNerd
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Joined : Feb 2016
Posts : 8
Posted 9/18/2016 3:23 PM (GMT -7)
Tell your friend she should work for Halmark--beautiful, meaningful words. Thank you for this.
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Mews2much
Regular Member
Joined : Aug 2016
Posts : 68
Posted 9/18/2016 8:51 PM (GMT -7)
I would like to Thank everyone for posted their stories they give us hope.
In 2005 my husband fainted and I had to call 911.
He had bruises and cuts that were not healing and trouble breathing.
It turned out to be leukemia and if I had not called 911 he would not have made it.
He had many tests and his bone marrow came out dry as a bone.
He had chemo for the leukemia and went into remission.
In fact he is 10 years leukemia free.
When Dr W called to say he had prostate cancer I cried and he was shocked.
Sadly we were expecting the biopsy to come back as cancer because his PSA was 59.
We asked Dr W if the chemo for the leukemia could have caused the cancer and he said no but he can cause other types of cancer.
I got with Steve to all his appointments and tests.
I was allowed to watch him have the bone scan.
I am terrified of his surgery on Oct 17th because of his age.
It is just me and Steve here.
I wanted kids but it never happened.
We have been together since 1994.
This forum has been very helpful.
I wish my husband would stop saying sorry that he has pc it is not his fault.
His oncologist hugged both of us and said how sorry she was that he has pc.
She referred us to another oncologist who she thought would be the best option for him.
We do not know if Steve will be doing radiation or chemo yet.
They want the Pet Scan first.
It is shocking when you beat leukemia and then have another type of cancer.
Jacky
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Todd1963
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Joined : Oct 2008
Posts : 3457
Posted 9/19/2016 10:56 AM (GMT -7)
I love this post. Nice work
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Wings of Eagles
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Posts : 1060
Posted 10/6/2016 12:44 PM (GMT -7)
With all credit of lyrics and content to Mercy Me "Dear Younger me"-a letter to his younger self

Dear Newly Diagnosed:
Where do I start, if I could tell you everything that I have learned so far?
Then you could be one step ahead of all the painful memories still running thru your head.
I wonder how much different things would be.
I cannot decide, do I give some speech about how to get the most out of your life?
Or do I go deep, and try to change the choices that you’ll make, because they’re the same choices that made me. Even though I love this crazy life, sometimes I wish it was a smoother ride.

If I knew then what I know now, condemnation would’ve had no power.
My joy, my pain would’ve never been my worth, if I knew then what I know now.
Would’ve not been hard to figure out what I would’ve changed if I had heard this:
Every mountain every valley
Thru each heartache you will see
Every moment brings you closer
To who you were meant to be

Dear newly diagnosed, It’s not your fault.

Know now that there is no sense looking back with any regrets that you could have done something to change this diagnosis.
Look ahead, live for today, enjoy each moment and LIVE!

Wings of Eagles aka Dan in So Cal

Post Edited (Wings of Eagles) : 10/6/2016 1:47:09 PM (GMT-6)

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Wings of Eagles
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Joined : May 2013
Posts : 1060
Posted 10/13/2016 7:44 AM (GMT -7)
Dear Newly Diagnosed,

Speaking from my own experience, the shock will fade, the tears will subside, and the pain will ease. The battle will begin.

You are probably reeling from that initial conversation with your Doctor, to hear the words that you never thought you would hear. Words that will change the rest of your life. For me, I was in that little room with my wife. I knew from my exam what the doctor suspected. I did not know the severity of the problem until I asked him what the treatment plan was, and what my prognosis was.

Nothing much that he could do other than offer a Lupron shot to slow down the growth. Three to five years would be my probable life expectancy. That utterance is already profoundly wrong as I write this nearly five years later, (while in remission) however, those word from the Doctor were and are frozen in my mind. They sent my wife out of the office in nearly full hysterical crying. I announced to the Doctor that I would NOT be a statistic and I would return to his office after five years to show him that he was wrong. I rushed out to our car, and tried to be brave to tell my wife it would be OK, but had an overwhelming feeling that it would not. I went back into the office, had some harsh words for the Nurses while setting up a follow-up appointment. The journey had begun.

Your journey has also now just begun. No matter what your condition and diagnosis is, just take a breath. Start by finding out all you can from reliable sources about possible treatment plans. Do not take in everything on the internet as de facto truths. Consult various appropriate Doctors. Trust your Doctors, but don’t be afraid to change from one to another, and get second opinions. Weigh your options,. Hopefully you have a good insurance plan, because that will be your saving grace for your finances.

I was determined right off the bat to go outside of my local small community ,to start treatment at a large Cancer Center, I investigated the background and training of each doctor that I would see. I have come to trust the group that I am with. I have decided to put my faith in my doctors, but above even that, my faith in my God. I believe that will sustain me throughout my entire journey, indeed it already has.

Find a great support group. There are great sites like Healing Well or Inspire or Yana-cancer.com, (You Are Not Alone) and there are excellent cancer bloggers out there like Allen Edel-(Tall Allen),Todd Seals-(Todd 1963), Andrew Reynolds-(In the Shop) and Joel Nowak. Take advice and learn from other patients, but realize we are mostly just laymen. Also,each persons’ case and journey is different and some treatments will affect people completely differently.

I log into Healing Well almost every day. I do no read every post, just the ones that are relevant to me. Don’t be afraid to share details of your progress with others, you will be surprised how good you will feel to get positive responses.

You will need to prioritize everything in your life. Do not shut out your feeling to your family/ do not hide the fact that you have this disease from others. I let everyone at my work know, not to get any sympathy, but just to let them know I might not be feeling well, or might be moody from time to time. Right away my bosses started talking the possibly of me becoming disabled right away. Here it is four years later, with metastatic disease, and I have not missed one day of work due to it. And I do not in have any bone pain either, despite having 4 bone met spots.

So pick yourself up off of the floor, look ahead to the future, and bring all of your resources to the forefront. If your status is “curable” then get out and grab it. If it is not, go out and grab life extension for more time than any of your doctors can imagine. I regard myself as a Miracle Man already, and that’s a pretty good tag to have. The other comfort I rely on constantly are that there are new discoveries and treatments to help us along the way in our journey every day, and in the pipeline being approved.

Go ahead, as Spock always said “live long and prosper” and be an inspiration to all around you! Live to get the most from every day. Celebrate life, and most of all, keep the faith!

Wings of Eagles aka Dan in SoCal
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Cyclone-ISU
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Joined : Oct 2014
Posts : 1927
Posted 11/7/2016 5:45 PM (GMT -7)

PREFACE TO THIS LETTER:

I am a school teacher. The news of my initial diagnosis came along, just as a new school year was beginning --- after nearly 25 years of teaching. My life changed, in the blink of an eye, in that very moment ...

Support began flowing through to me immediately from the community, my fellow teachers, my administrators, and most importantly ... FROM MY STUDENTS.

Continuing to teach ... and being with my school kids ... kept me INSPIRED and MOTIVATED, as my prostate cancer treatments began in earnest. Over time, my students have shown incredible support, every step of the way, each and every day.

As the school days went by, I began to notice something ...

Up and down the hallways of the school, kids wear a wide variety of TEAM T-SHIRTS. I began noticing the logos --- and found that the T-SHIRT logos were inspiring ME each day, as I began to pursue my treatments. I found myself writing down the various logos ... and each day, I kept seeing a different T-SHIRT message that gave me personal courage and inspiration for the entire day. It soon became a mission of mine, to see how many POWER MESSAGES I could collect ... from the T-SHIRT LOGOS that I saw each day in my classroom.

Taking pen to paper, I began scrawling the T-SHIRT logos on scraps of paper --- and then I found myself posting those notes on my school desk, on my computer, or carrying them in my pocket throughout the day. Each day, I saw different messages --- and different logos --- and each logo gave me a personal POWER MESSAGE for the day ahead.

So, below are all the T-SHIRT POWER MESSAGES I have collected, with special thanks to all my students, who have definitely been a tremendous source of support, throughout it all.

Get a pencil ... write down YOUR favorite ... or better yet, share one with a friend in need. Here's hoping that one of the T-SHIRT logos gives YOU a POWER MESSAGE to carry you through today !

Stay strong in the battle, my friends !
"Cyclone Team Fan" ~ Iowa State University

HERE ARE THE T-SHIRT LOGOS and "POWER MESSAGES" THAT I HAVE COLLECTED SO FAR:

* ABOVE THE REST !
* BE BOLD ~ BE HAPPY ~ BE YOU !
* BE BRAVE !
* BELIEVE IN YOURSELF !
* BORN TO BATTLE !
* BREAK THE MOLD !
* BRING YOUR "A" GAME !
* BUILT FOR BATTLE !
* CAN'T STOP ME !
* DESTROY FEAR !
* DOMINATE & DEFEAT !
* DON'T WISH FOR IT ~ WORK FOR IT !
* DREAM, BELIEVE, ACHIEVE !
* FIGHT BACK !
* FIGHT BACK ... I WILL !
* GET YOUR GAME ON !
* GIVE IT ALL YOU GOT !
* GIVE IT YOUR ALL !
* GO BIG, OR GO HOME !
* GO FOR THE GOLD !
* GOT YOU BEAT !
* ELEVATE YOUR GAME !
* HAVE COURAGE, AND ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE !
* HERE TO WIN !
* HERO ... HERO ... HERO IN TRAINING !
* I AM MIGHTY ! I AM POWERFUL ! I AM FEARLESS ! I AM A WARRIOR !
* I CAN. I WILL. BELIEVE IT !
* I CAN DO ALL THINGS !
* I CAN'T ... I WON'T ... LOSE !
* I DON'T STOP ! I DON'T QUIT !
* I MAKE THIS LOOK EASY !
* I NEVER STOP !
* I'M HERE TO WIN !
* IN IT ... TO WIN IT !
* INSPIRE !
* INSPIRE SOMEONE ... TODAY !
* IT'S GOOD TO BE THE KING !
* I'VE GOT THIS !
* I'VE GOT YOUR BACK !
* KEEP CALM AND SAIL ON !
* KEEP CALM - I GOT THIS !
* KEEP GOING ... GOING ... GOING !
* LEADER OF THE PACK !
* LEGEND STATUS !
* LET'S ROCK !
* LIVE THE REST OF YOUR LIFE AS A CHAMPION ~ Muhammad Ali
* MAKE HISTORY !
* MAKE THINGS HAPPEN !
* NEVER COUNT ME OUT !
* NEVER GIVE UP !
* NEVER GIVE UP THE FIGHT !
* NEVER REST !
* NEVER STOP !
* NEVER QUIT !
* NOTHING BUT AWESOME !
* NO PAIN, NO GAIN !
* ONE HUNDRED PERCENT EFFORT !
* PLAY LIKE A CHAMPION !
* POSITIVITY IS THE KEY !
* POWERFUL !
* READY FOR BATTLE !
* READY FOR LIFTOFF !
* REFUSE TO LOSE !
* RISE ABOVE THE REST !
* SHINE BRIGHT !
* SHOW NO MERCY !
* START STRONG, FINISH STRONGER !
* STAY STRONG !
* STEP YOUR GAME UP !
* # STRONG ! # SMART ! # BRAVE !
* SUPER HERO !
* SUPERMAN !
* THINK STRONG AND POSITIVE !
* UNLEASH YOUR POWER !
* WHATEVER IT TAKES !
* WINNING STARTS HERE !
* WORK FOR THE WIN !

Post Edited (ISU-CycloneFan) : 5/20/2017 10:37:55 PM (GMT-6)

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Bosco
Regular Member
Joined : Nov 2016
Posts : 64
Posted 11/13/2016 4:37 AM (GMT -7)
As a newly diagnosed member of this lousy club I wanted to thank ISU-CycloneFan & all of you who took the time to contribute to this marvelous thread. I find it very helpful and imagine I will be revisiting it often to find hope and inspiration.
Be well and God bless !
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Cyclone-ISU
Veteran Member
Joined : Oct 2014
Posts : 1927
Posted 1/15/2017 8:34 PM (GMT -7)

Preface To This Letter:

My parents have always shown unwavering loyalty and support, from the moment I was first diagnosed. They have shown incredible resilience and strength and faith, as my treatments have continued.

My father is a fellow prostate cancer patient, right alongside me. In fact, we share the same doctors. His insight and wisdom have given me enormous peace.

My mother is in a very unique situation ... her father (my grandfather) died of metastatic prostate cancer when I was growing up. Sadly, there were no treatments available for my grandfather in those days.

Some years later, my mother was there when her husband (my father) was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Just a few years later, my mother and father were sitting next to me in the doctor's office on the day I was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

As you can see ... prostate cancer has impacted three generations of my family ... impacting my grandfather, my father, and now me.

I'd like to share the letter that Mom and Dad wrote to me, at the time that I was diagnosed and began my medical treatments. It is a testament to the love and support that emerge from family members when facing the news of a health diagnosis.

I believe that their words will inspire others who just received the news of a prostate cancer diagnosis, just as their letter inspired me, as follows:

DEAR SON,

We have always known that you are making a difference in this world.

We are so proud of the son you have always been, and continue to be.

There has been some difficult news for you these past few days, but you have sailed through, somehow, with flying colors.

We are so happy that your treatments are going so well.

You seem to react with each new thing with courage and bravery.

We are thankful, beyond words, that your treatments are already beginning to help you.

We know that some days can be difficult, but you are doing so well, and we know you are following the right medical plan.

Your latest medical report was wonderful. At last, you finally caught a break in all of this that you have faced!

We feel such trust in your doctors ... your doctors show great wisdom, without a doubt.

We know that this has been the most difficult period in your life. Continue to be brave and know that we love you very much.

Just remember ... this is a journey ... take one day at a time ... no more ... no less.

You could never know HOW MUCH we love you.

Our constant prayer is for your health and happiness. We pray for your health, each and every day.

With so much love,

MOM & DAD
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celebrate life
Veteran Member
Joined : Dec 2014
Posts : 2111
Posted 1/15/2017 11:19 PM (GMT -7)
Very touching letter Cyclone. Thank you for sharing. The writing skills appear to have a hereditary factor as well. yeah
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Side Effects Of Prostate Cancer Radiation Treatment



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