Bring someone with you

At the results appointment, I was told I had cancer. My wife came with me and took the notes about staging and next steps. Because I was reeling. 

One year after surgery, I had salvage radiotherapy. I took a month off work during that period, and was glad I did towards the end when fatigue kicked in. But I probably could have worked for at least part of that time.

Steve, like you, I had already been told it was probably cancer but it still hits you like a train which makes it difficult to take in everything that is being said. My diagnosis was during Covid so I wasn't allowed to bring anyone with me. All the questions I felt I should have asked didn't materialise until afterwards. So having someone with you is not only a source of pastoral support but a second pair of ears. I was given a copy of the Prostrate Cancer UK publication "A guide to men who've just been diagnosed" The urologist filled in some diagnosis notes which proved helpful. It might be worth downloading a copy before your appointment as it may well prompt some questions you can raise at the appointment.

As for radiotherapy, the main interruption to work is the daily journeys to the hospital and back. I was retired at the time but the mild fatigue would not have prevented me from working from home.