November is men’s health awareness month. We spoke to George and Paul about their experiences of being diagnosed with prostate cancer and accessing support services in Brighton and Hove.
Men over 50, especially Black men and men who have relatives who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer are at higher risk. If you have any concerns about prostate cancer, get in touch with ACT or speak to your GP.
George lived in London when diagnosed and had a brilliant experience with different GP practices. The doctor suggested having a PSA test due to the apparent risk factors. He then had the blood test, and the results indicated prostate cancer. Following this, George had discussions with the team at Guy’s hospital, who were “absolutely wonderful” and renowned for prostate cancer support.
I am not sure what would have happened if they hadn’t been on the ball – a lot of medical practices aren’t – I hate to say it, as they have enough on their plates.
My immediate thought and reaction was, I’m alive. I got through it.
Roughly 18 months ago a member of Paul’s family shared that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Paul not given this any thought before but as the relative was of a similar age he decided to see a doctor. A PSA test came back positive. It did not seem very serious but it led to an MRI which showed 12 instances of cancerous cells in a particular area where the prostate is. They then did a biopsy which was a really strange experience – this again came back positive, but the good news was that it had not metastasized.
It is really fortunate, that at my age, you are diagnosed with prostate cancer, but it is very slow. With younger men, particularly in the BAME community, it can be more aggressive.
Paul went to see the people at the Macmillan Horizon Centre, they were really helpful, really nice, and really encouraging. They said “anytime you want to come by, or if you want to ring us, if you have any thoughts or any problems, please be encouraged to do so”.
George found the Saltdean Medical Practice good. “People complain about not getting appointments, but they now also give appointments on a Saturday in Whitehawk.”
Paul said his GP was interviewed and he was described as “A GP and an expert on PTSD during the day and a drag queen during the night”
A great combination, and it is very fortunate I got to speak to him. All the other doctors are great too, really good. But I have to say – it was me asking to be diagnosed, asking for a PSA test.
You don’t talk about this stuff, not when it happens. The moral of the story is that you bloody well need to, and that is why I am so happy to be here doing this.
