Tomorrow the preparation starts for the Cyberknife RT, which is due to begin in mid-January. I am going in to hospital tomorrow, under general anaesthetic to have a gel spacer inserted between prostate and rectum, which will reduce impact of radiation on rectum by separating the two. Fiducial markers are to be placed to mark out the prostate for targeting by the Cyberknife.
I am nervous and anxious about the whole process, as this really is the beginning of an irreversible procedure. Having opted for Cyberknife, I have been seen buy both the NHS and private health care specialists and consultants. The consultants for both NHS and private have been outstanding with their bedside manner, approachability and considered responses to my questions. I believe that I will be in highly capable skilled hands as I go through this treatment.
Cycling through Myanmar in November delayed facing up to my realities in London, which included separation after 20 years, the splitting of assets that we worked together to build for our future and our sons, and the PCa treatment, so the last week has felt like crashing into a brick wall. One of the strange things about this whole journey is that I have no symptoms that disrupt my daily life, nor any that inconvenience me in any way. The symptoms I have now, such as being unable to ejaculate and constipation are brought on by medication. The anti-depressant Sertraline, which I have been on since early September and the hormone Bicalutamide, which I started nearly 2 weeks ago. This apparently will help with the RT. I haven't experienced any soreness or tenderness in my breasts, as I read others have experienced.
On a positive note on this cold grey, snowy and sleet punctuated day in London, the Maggie's Centre at Bart's was formally opened. It will be open from tomorrow. It is glazed with translucent glass, I haven't seen the inside, but it looks to be a treasure.
Pale Rider