Prostate Cancer Patient Stories & Testimonials

Hello, my name is Lonnie Harrison. I'm an interventional cardiologist and endovascular surgeon residing in Arkansas. I'm 65 years old, married, with five grown children. My hobbies include fishing, bow shooting, and previously, piloting aerobatic jets. A couple of years ago, during a routine check-up, my PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels were elevated. Initially, due to a busy schedule, I delayed further investigation. Upon rechecking, the PSA levels had increased significantly. Consulted a local urologist who recommended a 12-core biopsy, which confirmed the presence of prostate cancer. As a physician, facing a personal diagnosis was challenging. There was initial denial, followed by acceptance and a determination to pursue aggressive treatment.Local options included radical prostatectomy (surgical removal of the prostate) and radiation therapy. Desiring alternatives, I researched and discovered High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU). Consulted with physicians specializing in HIFU and decided to proceed with this treatment.

Bruce (Focal Therapy Clinic Patient) 📌 Diagnosis & Initial Consultation In 2014, a friend who had undergone a radical prostatectomy suggested I get tested for prostate cancer. I had a PSA test, which returned a level of 7.9. I was then invited to meet with Mr. Marc Laniado to discuss my options. Mr. Laniado was candid about the possible treatments. He said: “Bruce, there's always the option to do nothing, but I don't recommend that. You have a potentially cancerous area on the edge of your prostate, and we need to take action.” He discussed radical prostatectomy, a procedure he frequently performs. He explained that while the Da Vinci robotic system is precise, there's still a significant risk of permanently losing bladder and erectile function. “I have to be honest—too often, patients never regain full control in those areas after surgery. While no treatment guarantees full control, avoiding surgery gives you a much better chance.” 📌 Learning About HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) Mr. Laniado introduced me to HIFU as an alternative. He explained that HIFU uses two ultrasound beams that intersect at a precise point, heating the tissue to 100°C to destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. I was relieved to learn that HIFU is now recognized by health insurers, making it an accessible option. For me, it was a natural choice. I wanted to avoid the risks of radical surgery and preserve my quality of life. 📌 Undergoing HIFU Treatment The procedure was completely pain-free. I was under anesthesia, and when I woke up, it was done. After the treatment, the medical team re-examined my prostate and confirmed that: All the cancerous cells had been eliminated. The surrounding healthy cells remained intact. The results were fantastic, and I felt incredibly fortunate to have discovered HIFU. I knew I had avoided the serious risks of surgery, and I was grateful that my cancer had been treated effectively without affecting my lifestyle. 📌 Reflections & Advocacy for Focal Therapy Meeting other patients at the Compass Support Group was enlightening. Many men had only been offered surgery and were unaware of focal therapy. Unfortunately, some doctors don’t present HIFU as an option, leading men to believe radical prostatectomy is their only choice. I truly feel for those who were never given the chance to explore all their options. I hope that more men can be made aware of HIFU and other focal therapies so they can make fully informed decisions.

Dave (Focal Therapy Clinic Patient) 📌 Diagnosis & Initial Consultation A couple of years ago, a friend suggested I have a PSA test. He had been diagnosed with prostate cancer, so I took his advice. My initial PSA level was 3.6. The following year, in January, my PSA level increased to 4.6, which raised concerns at my doctor's surgery. I was referred to the hospital, where further tests confirmed the presence of cancerous cells in my prostate. I consulted with Mr. Tim Dudderidge, a specialist in the field based in Southampton. Due to the detected level of cancer, he recommended active surveillance, involving regular tests to monitor the condition. Early on, I felt uncomfortable with the idea of leaving the cancer untreated, fearing it might develop into something more sinister. Mr. Dudderidge noticed my discomfort with active surveillance and revisited the available treatment options. 📌 Introduction to HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) He introduced me to HIFU, explaining it as a suitable option for my condition. After understanding the procedure, it seemed like the right choice for me. My wife reminded me that we had access to private healthcare, which allowed me to undergo the procedure more quickly, providing peace of mind. 📌 Undergoing HIFU Treatment During the consultation, I learned that HIFU isn't offered in all health areas. I felt fortunate that Mr. Dudderidge, being a pioneer of the system in the UK, could offer this treatment. He explained the details of the operation and potential side effects. Fortunately, I experienced none of the side effects; all my bodily functions returned to normal, which was a great relief. 📌 Reflections & Advocacy for Early Detection Throughout this process, my wife often said, 'You didn't know you had it.' Indeed, I never felt ill before or after the diagnosis. This made me realize how many men might be unaware they have prostate cancer. If you're of the right age, get yourself checked. It might reveal nothing, but it's better than having something and not knowing about it. Had I been sent away with active surveillance, knowing I had cancerous cells in my body would have made me very uncomfortable, feeling like a time bomb was ticking inside me. I'm so glad that the HIFU option was available to me, and I was able to take it.

Guy (Focal Therapy Clinic Patient) 📌 Monitoring PSA Levels For a long time, I've been doing an annual health check, probably for about 10 years. It's a bit like an MOT, setting out your blood count and other lifestyle variations. The most important metric for me was the PSA level, which I noticed was gradually increasing year after year. About two years ago, it reached a level of 7.0, prompting my advisor to recommend a consultation with Mr. Tim Dudderidge, a consultant. 📌 Diagnosis and Initial Consultation I underwent a 3D scan, allowing for detailed mapping of my prostate. This enabled a targeted biopsy at the identified anomaly. Upon returning to see Mr. Dudderidge, I was informed that they had found almost just a millimeter of cancer—it was very fine and very small. That was the point I was told I had cancer. I was then given extensive literature to review and went away to consider the different options and treatments available. 📌 Considering Treatment Options Upon returning, Mr. Dudderidge recommended active surveillance, and we discussed this approach at length. I just didn't like the idea of sitting around knowing I had cancer, not fully understanding if it was growing or not. There's always a chance it's progressing quicker than you think. Mentally, I felt I wanted it addressed and cleared up. We discussed HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound), and I understood its advantages: It could be carried out fairly quickly. It targets specific areas. If necessary, I could undergo the procedure again. It appeared to have the least likelihood of side effects, which was a significant factor for me. 📌 Decision and Procedure Mr. Dudderidge was supportive, allowing me time to read about and consider the options. I don't feel he particularly directed me towards HIFU, but it was obviously a specialty of his, and it aligned with what I wanted. I felt fortunate to have ended up under his care. Procedure Experience: The process was straightforward: I was taken through the procedure again by Mr. Dudderidge. In the operating theater, everything was calm and easy. After a brief period, the anesthetic was administered, and the next thing I knew, I woke up an hour or so later with no pain or particular problems. 📌 Recovery and Reflections After the operation, I stayed in the hospital for a couple of hours. A catheter was fitted, which I had to live with for the next week. That was the longest week of my life; I hated that part totally. But once it was removed, everything was fine. Being a keen cyclist, I was back on my bicycle within about three weeks, and the whole experience was soon forgotten. Follow-Up: One of the benefits of HIFU is the active observation that follows: Every three months, I have a PSA test. Every year, I undergo a scan. It's been smooth sailing all the way; I've had no further problems. Message to Others: I was asked to share my experience, and one of the reasons I wanted to do it was to help others moving forward. It's not a major issue; you can get through it. HIFU is a viable option to consider if it aligns with your situation.

Steve Bright (Focal Therapy Clinic Patient) 📌 Diagnosis & Initial Treatment Options Hi, I’m Steve Bright, and I live in Chester. I was diagnosed with prostate cancer in June this year. In February, I experienced some health concerns, and my wife suggested I get blood tests. My GP arranged them, and one result showed a high PSA level, indicating a potential prostate issue. Following an MRI and biopsy, I was referred to consultants at my local hospital. They confirmed that the cancer needed treatment and couldn’t just be monitored. I was presented with two options: Radiotherapy Surgery (prostate removal) Neither option sounded particularly appealing. After discussing it with my wife, I decided to go ahead with surgery. 📌 Discovering Focal Therapy My first surgery was canceled, so my wife and I decided to take a short holiday in Spain. When we returned around September 20th, my wife read a newspaper article about a “new treatment.” She mentioned it to me, and although I was initially skeptical, I decided to take a look. The article talked about ultrasound treatment for prostate cancer. That weekend, I started researching online—something I had deliberately avoided doing earlier to prevent overwhelming myself with too much information. 📌 Consultation at The Focal Therapy Clinic On Monday morning, at 8:45 AM, I called The Focal Therapy Clinic. I spoke with a very helpful representative who arranged a consultation in London with Mr. Raj Nigam. During our meeting, Mr. Nigam took the time to explain all the available options, introducing HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) last. HIFU seemed like the best option for me because: My cancer was detected early. It was a low-grade case. The treatment would have minimal impact on my quality of life. One of my biggest concerns about surgery was the risk of side effects, particularly regarding erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence. To be honest, that was more frightening than the cancer itself. HIFU, on the other hand, appeared to have a lower risk of these complications. 📌 Undergoing HIFU Treatment The HIFU procedure was straightforward and simple. It was done under general anesthesia, and the process was smooth and painless. After the treatment: I had a catheter for about four to five days, but it wasn’t uncomfortable. My recovery was quick and uneventful. I experienced no major side effects and felt great. So far, everything has been positive, and I’m hopeful that this remains the case. 📌 Final Thoughts One frustration I have is that HIFU was not presented to me as an option at my initial diagnosis. I hope that, moving forward, more men will be made aware of alternative treatments beyond surgery and radiotherapy. Surgery is a life-changing procedure, and many men—like me—might feel overwhelmed by it. I encourage others to take a step back, explore all options, and make an informed decision about their treatment.

Barry & Jackie 📌 Introduction Barry: My name is Barry. I'm 75 years old. After returning from a vacation in America, I visited my GP for a routine check-up. During the visit, he suggested a blood test, which revealed a very high PSA level. Jackie: We were absolutely shocked by the results. Barry had no symptoms, and we hadn't suspected anything was wrong. 📌 Diagnosis and Initial Treatment Options Barry: I was referred to a urologist and underwent an MRI and other tests. Nearly three months after the initial blood test, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Jackie: Hearing the words 'prostate cancer' made our hearts sink. The urologist presented four options: Do nothing: Given Barry's age, this was mentioned, but we didn't consider it viable. Surgery to remove the prostate: Due to concerns about Barry's heart strength, this was deemed risky. Radiotherapy with hormone treatment: We knew from friends that hormone treatments often come with significant side effects. Brachytherapy: This involved implanting radioactive seeds into the prostate, which meant Barry couldn't be near our soon-to-be-born grandchild due to radiation concerns. 📌 Researching Alternative Treatments Jackie: Feeling upset and unsatisfied with the options, I decided to research alternatives. I discovered Focal Therapy, which appeared promising as a one-off treatment with minimal side effects. I contacted The Focal Therapy Clinic and spoke with a gentleman who provided detailed information and reassurance. Barry: We scheduled a consultation with Mr. Raj Nigam, who explained all procedures, not just focal therapy. He was kind and thorough. After assessments, he confirmed that I was a suitable candidate for focal therapy. 📌 Undergoing HIFU Treatment Barry: I underwent the High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) procedure. The process was straightforward: Anesthesia: Administered to ensure comfort. Procedure: Completed without complications. Recovery: I had a catheter for six days, which wasn't problematic. Jackie: In the past, a lifespan of 75 might have been considered long, but today, people live longer and healthier lives. We didn't want Barry's life dismissed due to age. We sought the best and easiest way to address the diagnosis, and focal therapy provided that solution. 📌 Conclusion Barry: I experienced no side effects from the treatment and am grateful for the care provided. Jackie: We encourage others to explore all available options and not feel dismissed due to age. Focal therapy was the best choice for us.