This is my fourth opportunity to share my cancer experience with ISHN readers. In June 2002, I discussed the diagnosis; in October 2002, the topic was treatment of my prostate cancer; and in June 2003, I addressed recovery and included a list of strategies to remain cancer-free. These strategies were gleaned from reports of cancer survivors, and for almost three years they seemed to work for me. But in late August of this year I received distressing news. I am no longer cancer-free.
After surgery, and for five consecutive PSA tests, my score was 0.001. I was cancer-free. After three of these ideal test results, my urologist’s office only scheduled me annually for a PSA test. In fact, my recent PSA test was self-initiated. I had not yet received a postcard to prompt a PSA check. But I realized it had been a year since my last assessment and wanted verification of “cancer-free.â€