Prostate Cancer Community

56 y/o native american liiving in Oregon. I had my first PSA 8 years ago after my Dad was dianosed with prostate cancer. He was treated with external beam radiation and this week his PSA was 1.33. My PSA was 2.7. in 2004. In December 2011 my PSA was 5.9 and my doctor felt a lump during my annual exam, so he suggested a biopsy, which was positive and I had a gleason score of 6. After reviews of all the treeatments available and many discussions with my spouse, other survivors, etc, I decided on robotic surgery. I had my prostate removed on Monday 4/9/12, and was home the next day. It is now day 9, and I am feeling no pain anywhere. The only real discomfort is my catheter, which will reamain in until 4/24/12. We are a very happily married couple with a avid sex life, still 3 times per week, so, it was not an easy decision, risking my love life to get cut on. I read a lot of books, viewed a lot of options on You Tube, and they helped me feel comfortable about my decision. I was awakend this morning with a pain in my penis and when I stood up, I understood why. I had an erection! It was painful, and I was happy! I know it may be a long road to full recovery, and I also know, my surgeon listened to us, when we told him how important our love life is to us. He assured me after the surgery that my nurovascular bundle was spared, and he only used a minimal amount of heat to seal off any bleeding. My mobility is real good. I go for short walks and an occasional long walk, which helps me stay active. I can shower, use the toilet and have become pretty proficient at changing from my large urinary bag to my leg bag. The right pants and underwear make a huge difference in comfort, while you have a catheter in place. Anyone, please feel free to contact me and I can tell you more of my experience, and pay it forward, for all those that have helped me with what they learned. Remember, you are not alone!