Mr. Jamie Bearse is the CEO of ZERO — The End of Prostate Cancer (www.zerocancer.org). ZERO is a United States-based nonprofit with a mission to end prostate cancer.
He talks to Prostatepedia about dealing with recurrence.
Finishing your prostate cancer treatment is cause for celebration and relief. Life is best lived in the moment as we all only have today. However, stress about side effects and thoughts of recurrence creep in. It’s critical not to live in an anxious world of what if, but it’s important to know that up to 40 percent of men will experience a recurrence after completing treatment. For those who do experience recurrence— whether it is biochemical or metastatic disease—we’d like to share some tips for coping with the journey ahead. Talk to your doctor about every aspect of your new diagnosis, including your treatment options.
It’s important to understand whether you are experiencing biochemical recurrence or if your cancer has become metastatic and what your treatment options are. At your appointment, take detailed notes, or bring someone with you to do so. Afterward, do your own research about what you discussed with your doctor, and if you still feel unsure, seek a second opinion. Much like when you were first diagnosed, it’s important to understand all options available to you based on your specific disease and circumstances.
Consider joining a support group.
Support groups offer the chance to share feelings and fears with others who understand, as well as to exchange practical information and helpful suggestions. Connecting with other men whose cancer journey is similar to yours can allow you to explore options and seek advice from someone who has been there before.
Try to lean on your loved ones.
Your loved ones want to help you through this newest obstacle – try not to be afraid to open up and talk about how you’re feeling. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to someone, write down your thoughts in a journal. Talking and thinking about your concerns as you work through your options can help you feel less afraid or anxious and more in control.
Utilize all resources available to you.
If you don’t feel comfortable talking to a loved one or a support group, or if you feel you need additional support, consider calling ZERO360 at 1-844-244-1309 Toll-Free, a free one on- one patient support service that can help you find qualified counselors and emotional support resources. The fear of recurrence is normal and reasonable for all cancer survivors. Although you cannot control whether your cancer recurs, you can control how you move into this next phase of your prostate cancer journey. ZERO also offers a new, peer-to-peer MENtor program, which can match you with a patient or survivor who has experienced a similar diagnosis or treatment pathway for one-on one support. In addition, if you’re experiencing recurrence and are looking for additional resources to help, visit http://www.zerocancer.org/ get-support/zero360.
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