MICKEYBOYS PAGE

Mike,

When I was diagnosed 3 years ago there was some debate about whether or not my cancer had spread.  I had been referred to a "top" doctor at a very well respected cancer center.  I didn't realize at the time that different doctors have different operation procedures if they operate and discover cancer in any lymphnodes.  I had no doubt in my mind that I wanted my prostate taken out no matter what they found.  However, my doctor stopped the surgery when it was discovered that my cancer had in fact spread.  This was tantamount to a death sentence.  While in the hospital I went over the post-surgical report with my doctor.  Much to my surprise it turned out that the cancer was only in 2 lymphnodes and there was no other evidence of spreading.  I asked if we could go back in and remove the prostate.  His reply was "no" and I shouldn't worry too much because I still had at least 7 years of life left and it was  important for me to have a healthy sex life for those 7 years.  I was 47 at the time.  After recovering from the surgery I began a search for a doctor that could offer me some hope.  I found one at another great cancer center who told me that I was too young to die.  They went in and took out my prostate, put me on chemo and hormone deprivation therapy.  Three years later I have a PSA of 0.0.  My suggestion is to make absolutely sure you understand what these doctors are debating about and what impact it might have on your treatment.  I wish I had had the opportunity to put my two doctors in a room together and let them debate how they would treat me.  My mistake was putting all of my faith in one doctor who had been highly recommended. 

Daniel