Tony Wootton

As I reached the age of 52, the thought of having a PSA test never crossed my mind. I felt healthy and didn't perceive any alarming symptoms that would prompt me to seek medical attention.  After all, why would I need a test at this stage of my life, especially with no family history of prostate issues? However, my wife persistently urged me to consider it, emphasising the importance of proactive health measures.  Despite her insistence, I initially brushed off the idea, assuming it unnecessary.

 

Eventually, relenting to my wife's persistence, I decided to approach my GP about the matter. However, I was met with a disappointing response as my GP deemed the test unnecessary due to the absence of any red flags such as family history or noticeable symptoms. Undeterred, my wife took matters into her own hands and arranged for me to undergo a PSA test through a charitable organisation.

 

I remember the day vividly when I went to a local golf club for the test. It seemed like a routine procedure, and I didn't dwell on it much afterward. That is until a few days later when I received an email notifying me of a concerning result – my PSA level was alarmingly high at 16.4. Shocked and sceptical of the accuracy of the result, I immediately reached out to my GP for confirmation.

 

To my dismay, the subsequent PSA test conducted by my GP yielded a similarly elevated result, confirming the initial findings. Suddenly, the gravity of the situation began to sink in. I was swiftly referred for further investigations, including an MRI and a targeted biopsy. It was during this period of diagnostic tests that the reality of my condition started to dawn on me. Despite feeling healthy and symptom-free, I was facing a potential battle with prostate cancer.

 

The results of the MRI and biopsy confirmed my worst fears – prostate cancer, staged as T3a with a Gleason score of 7. The news was devastating, and I found myself grappling with the harsh reality of my diagnosis. A tearful meeting with a urologist further emphasised the seriousness of the situation. Given my relatively young age and the aggressive nature of the cancer, it was agreed that urgent intervention was necessary.

 

Subsequently, I was referred to a consultant at Royal Surrey Cancer Centre in Guildford for further assessment and treatment planning. Prior to the consultation, I underwent a PSA PET scan to determine the extent of the cancer spread. Following thorough discussions with the medical team, it was decided that prostate removal using the DaVinci surgical system offered the best chance of curative treatment.

 

The journey ahead appeared daunting, filled with uncertainties and apprehensions. However, the unwavering support and expertise of the healthcare professionals involved provided me with a sense of reassurance and confidence. Maria, my dedicated nurse, and Mr Wissam Abou-Chedid, my consultant surgeon from Royal Surrey’s Stokes Centre for Urology, emerged as beacons of hope during this challenging period.

 

On August 31st, 2023, I underwent prostate removal surgery, marking the beginning of my journey towards recovery. I wrote this in May 2024 and I am grateful to report that my PSA results have remained undetectable, signifying a positive response to treatment. While the road to recovery has been arduous, each undetectable PSA result serves as a beacon of hope and affirmation.

 

This life-altering experience has inspired me to become actively involved in the fight against prostate cancer. As a trustee of the Prostate Project Charity, I am committed to raising awareness and supporting initiatives aimed at providing men with a better chance of overcoming this disease. If my story resonates with you or if you have any concerns about your health, I urge you to seek advice and undergo testing. Remember, early detection can make all the difference in the battle against prostate cancer.