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User
Posted 21 Jul 2026 at 22:32

Hi All,

Having been feeling 'low energy' for a while I decided to go and speak to my GP. I was given a panel of blood tests the results of which had my GP focusing on cholesterol levels more than anything else.  It was pointed out as a side note that my PSA level was slightly above normal (being 4.15) so a repeat blood test was performed to go deeper on the cholesterol concern (detailing lipoprotein and apolipoprotein). As a precaution, PSA was included again due to the slightly abnormal reading. 

My following results showed PSA at 4.27, which my GP explained was within normal expected variations to my first reading. Expecting a slightly enlarged prostate, as I am presently 62 yrs old, my GP referred me for an MRI (and also a heart CAC calcium score CT Scan on the cholesterol matter). Once my GP received my MRI results she immediately referred me to a urologist. A few days later I was knees to chin on a table with the urologist informing me I have prostate cancer, based upon his review of the MRI and the digital examination. Ironically, I had just received and reviewed my heart CAC report while sitting in the waiting area. The clean CAC report relieved my mind considerably before the crushing news on my prostate was delivered only moments later.

While I have not yet had a biopsy (that will happen in less than 48 hours from now) my urologist (who is also an oncologist) diagnosed me with cancer based on a MRI PI-RADS 5 score and his digital examination. I have a 2.8cm lesion which is abutting the capsule laterally. I asked if it could be benign and I was told that there is likely less than 2% chance of that.  While the lesion is abutting the capsule the MRI does not suggest it has extended beyond it but that has yet to be confirmed.

This all came as a complete surprise to me, as I am sure similar news did to most members of the forum in their own cases.

I understand that the results of the biopsy will be more meaningful in terms of where I am heading with this, and these next few weeks of waiting will have me bouncing off the walls in my head, as has been the case over the days since I was diagnosed. At this moment I am trying to mentally adjust to my new reality.  Writing this post is helping me process the unexpected and unwelcome news.

My best wishes to everyone on the journey.

Thank you

        

User
Posted 21 Jul 2026 at 22:32

Hi All,

Having been feeling 'low energy' for a while I decided to go and speak to my GP. I was given a panel of blood tests the results of which had my GP focusing on cholesterol levels more than anything else.  It was pointed out as a side note that my PSA level was slightly above normal (being 4.15) so a repeat blood test was performed to go deeper on the cholesterol concern (detailing lipoprotein and apolipoprotein). As a precaution, PSA was included again due to the slightly abnormal reading. 

My following results showed PSA at 4.27, which my GP explained was within normal expected variations to my first reading. Expecting a slightly enlarged prostate, as I am presently 62 yrs old, my GP referred me for an MRI (and also a heart CAC calcium score CT Scan on the cholesterol matter). Once my GP received my MRI results she immediately referred me to a urologist. A few days later I was knees to chin on a table with the urologist informing me I have prostate cancer, based upon his review of the MRI and the digital examination. Ironically, I had just received and reviewed my heart CAC report while sitting in the waiting area. The clean CAC report relieved my mind considerably before the crushing news on my prostate was delivered only moments later.

While I have not yet had a biopsy (that will happen in less than 48 hours from now) my urologist (who is also an oncologist) diagnosed me with cancer based on a MRI PI-RADS 5 score and his digital examination. I have a 2.8cm lesion which is abutting the capsule laterally. I asked if it could be benign and I was told that there is likely less than 2% chance of that.  While the lesion is abutting the capsule the MRI does not suggest it has extended beyond it but that has yet to be confirmed.

This all came as a complete surprise to me, as I am sure similar news did to most members of the forum in their own cases.

I understand that the results of the biopsy will be more meaningful in terms of where I am heading with this, and these next few weeks of waiting will have me bouncing off the walls in my head, as has been the case over the days since I was diagnosed. At this moment I am trying to mentally adjust to my new reality.  Writing this post is helping me process the unexpected and unwelcome news.

My best wishes to everyone on the journey.

Thank you

        

User
Posted 21 Jul 2026 at 23:19
Thank you, Adrian. Greatly and sincerely appreciated.
User
Posted 22 Jul 2026 at 06:50

Welcome aboard, it seems odd bidding people welcome to a place they really dont want to be.

But, since you're here, you may as well get the most from the forum.

Adrian is absolutely right, the battery of tests and the resultant periods of waiting are so difficult to navigate. I was told at the start of my biopsy that, based on the mri results and PSA of 4.84, I definitely had prostate cancer and that this test would simply show what type. Cue being absolutely terrified for the next five weeks. 

When no contact from the hospital became too much to bear I managed to get through on the telephone. I had been discharged,  and they hadn't got round to telling me as they were "busy with people who really did have cancer".

I really hope that your "definitely have prostate cancer" becomes something much less serious, as mine did. You just never know with all these scores and numbers flying around. 

I have a friend who is currently dealing with kidney cancer that has spread to his humerus, which he has had removed and replaced with a prosthetic one. Quite a plateful at just 49 years old. On Monday we found out his 24 year old son has testicular cancer which requires an immediate orchidectomy next week. The lad has gone through the whole diagnostic process alone because he didn't want to add to his parents stress, they only found out because he told his sister he was going in for the operation and she freaked out. 

My own brief dalliance with PCa seems so minor in comparison to my friends situation.  But I know how scared I was even at the mention of the possibility and how much it has affected my outlook on life in general. 

All I can offer is my support and best wishes for your onward journey, however long or short it may turn out to be. 

Take care and try not to worry until there is something to worry about. 

Best regards Mick 

User
Posted 22 Jul 2026 at 15:44

Hi RS-42

As others have said - welcome to the club you didn't want to join.

I do hope that the biopsy will ease things for you but it can be a long wait between the sampling, the results and the MDT before you then have a chat with a CNS or your consultant.  In between times this can be really hard on you mentally, and others around you, so please take the time to realise how you may be feeling and that it is the result of some serious issues outside your immediate control.  there are plenty of sources for support, both on this site and on Prostate Cancer UK - and the helplines are just that - helpful!  The PCUK website shop has some amazing information about PCa and I would recommend that you send for their "Toolkit" which contains info across a broad spectrum of the treatments and support available. Each booklet includes a list of questions you might want to ask...

In terms of the practicalities of the biopsy - it is not that bad really, but rather undignified. It is a major intervention so I do hope that you will have someone to support you afterward. I personally walked out of the hospital to the nearby railway station and then walked home at the other end (all whilst the anaesthetic was still functioning!) But my surgeon promised at the start "no pain" and essentially there was none.  The one factor I hadn't accounted for was the large amount of gel which was expelled afterward (U/S probe in rectum and samples through the perineum). I was given a pad and some disposable tighty whities to wear home!!!

I had 21 samples taken, 13 positive.

You can see our individual profiles by clicking on our avatar (photo) or name.  If you wish to you can fill-in your own details results so that we can be better informed when responding to you.

In the meantime, best of luck with the procedure and fingers crossed that the results will be "favourable".

 

Best wishes - stay positive

CeePee

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User
Posted 21 Jul 2026 at 23:10

Hi, RS_42.

I'm sorry to hear that you are having prostate problems, but welcome to the forum. 

Most of us have found that the diagnostic procedures are the most difficult to deal with. Waiting for results is particularly stressful.

I hope your biopsy goes well and that the results are favourable.

Please keep us updated.

Good luck, mate. 👍

User
Posted 21 Jul 2026 at 23:19
Thank you, Adrian. Greatly and sincerely appreciated.
User
Posted 22 Jul 2026 at 06:50

Welcome aboard, it seems odd bidding people welcome to a place they really dont want to be.

But, since you're here, you may as well get the most from the forum.

Adrian is absolutely right, the battery of tests and the resultant periods of waiting are so difficult to navigate. I was told at the start of my biopsy that, based on the mri results and PSA of 4.84, I definitely had prostate cancer and that this test would simply show what type. Cue being absolutely terrified for the next five weeks. 

When no contact from the hospital became too much to bear I managed to get through on the telephone. I had been discharged,  and they hadn't got round to telling me as they were "busy with people who really did have cancer".

I really hope that your "definitely have prostate cancer" becomes something much less serious, as mine did. You just never know with all these scores and numbers flying around. 

I have a friend who is currently dealing with kidney cancer that has spread to his humerus, which he has had removed and replaced with a prosthetic one. Quite a plateful at just 49 years old. On Monday we found out his 24 year old son has testicular cancer which requires an immediate orchidectomy next week. The lad has gone through the whole diagnostic process alone because he didn't want to add to his parents stress, they only found out because he told his sister he was going in for the operation and she freaked out. 

My own brief dalliance with PCa seems so minor in comparison to my friends situation.  But I know how scared I was even at the mention of the possibility and how much it has affected my outlook on life in general. 

All I can offer is my support and best wishes for your onward journey, however long or short it may turn out to be. 

Take care and try not to worry until there is something to worry about. 

Best regards Mick 

User
Posted 22 Jul 2026 at 13:20

Thank you, Mick for the helpful message and not least for taking the time to write it.

I will be having my biopsy in 24 hours so I am grateful that something is happening. Strangely, there is some comfort in the prospect of certainty.

I’m very pleased to hear that all turned out well for you. 

Might ask if you had any indicators other than the concern over your PSA level?

Best regards,

R

User
Posted 22 Jul 2026 at 15:22

Hi, 

I didn't really have any symptoms to be honest..

Maybe a bit of extra peeing at night, but thought that was just getting older. Never had a massive sex drive so no alarm bells in the bedroom department.  

I was the same as you, having blood tests for unexpected weight loss. I knew this was a waste of time as I was sure my problems were rooted in low mood and anxiety rather than a physical problem. My GP just tagged a psa test on for the sake of completeness.  

That was the only one to come back raised. 

The MRI showed two areas of concern with a score of 4. They did a transrectal biopsy (which apart from being a bit awkward was not painful or distressing in the least).

My only concern is that they only took three samples from each area of concern and none at all from anywhere else.  Lots of posts on here indicate that the areas of concern were fine but the apparently healthy areas tested positive for cancer.

I didn't say anything about this at the time as I was pretty much in shock over the verbal diagnosis I'd just been hit with.  I wish I had asked them to take more samples, just to be sure. Im now worrying that they only did the bare minimum and could have missed something.  Im having to fight to get PSA tests done despite being promised they would monitor me more closely especially with my brother going terminal. 

You really do have to have your wits about you and watch what these people are doing. Sometimes their guidelines dont cover what tou are feeling 

Regards Mick 

User
Posted 22 Jul 2026 at 15:44

Hi RS-42

As others have said - welcome to the club you didn't want to join.

I do hope that the biopsy will ease things for you but it can be a long wait between the sampling, the results and the MDT before you then have a chat with a CNS or your consultant.  In between times this can be really hard on you mentally, and others around you, so please take the time to realise how you may be feeling and that it is the result of some serious issues outside your immediate control.  there are plenty of sources for support, both on this site and on Prostate Cancer UK - and the helplines are just that - helpful!  The PCUK website shop has some amazing information about PCa and I would recommend that you send for their "Toolkit" which contains info across a broad spectrum of the treatments and support available. Each booklet includes a list of questions you might want to ask...

In terms of the practicalities of the biopsy - it is not that bad really, but rather undignified. It is a major intervention so I do hope that you will have someone to support you afterward. I personally walked out of the hospital to the nearby railway station and then walked home at the other end (all whilst the anaesthetic was still functioning!) But my surgeon promised at the start "no pain" and essentially there was none.  The one factor I hadn't accounted for was the large amount of gel which was expelled afterward (U/S probe in rectum and samples through the perineum). I was given a pad and some disposable tighty whities to wear home!!!

I had 21 samples taken, 13 positive.

You can see our individual profiles by clicking on our avatar (photo) or name.  If you wish to you can fill-in your own details results so that we can be better informed when responding to you.

In the meantime, best of luck with the procedure and fingers crossed that the results will be "favourable".

 

Best wishes - stay positive

CeePee

User
Posted 22 Jul 2026 at 18:12

Thanks for the further feedback, Mick.

Extremely sorry to hear of your brother’s diagnosis.

User
Posted 22 Jul 2026 at 18:17

Hi CeePee,

My appreciation for the support toolkit and website referrals, and for the detail on the biopsy experience. I will plan accordingly 😉 

Thank you.

User
Posted 23 Jul 2026 at 19:05

Hi All,

My biopsy has just been performed, both MRI targeted and general. It was not the worst medical procedure I have had by any means.

As it would appear with many other members on the site, it is the mental aspect of coping with the waiting days and the related uncertainty which is the greater struggle.

None of us have a crystal ball and the temptation to Google and ChatGPT everything is overwhelming, despite my urologist’s express request that I do not do so.

I would prefer that he had not made the comment and left it to chance as, with the very best of intentions on his part, it is akin to him saying “do not think of a big, red London bus”.

I confidently predict that all readers at this point are thinking of a big, red London bus. 

Anyhow, the waiting period begins.

My gratitude to everyone participating and contributing to the PCUK website. The resources and member inputs are a genuine crutch, both in terms of informational and - just as importantly - emotional support.

My best wishes to all.

R

 

 

 

 

User
Posted 23 Jul 2026 at 19:24

 "....the temptation to Google and ChatGPT...."

I`ve spent hours doing that -- and simply confirming that I do have a dangerous cancer. I have to now wait for weeks for my CT and bone scans results.

It is unbearable... Trying to be strong and positive.

But It`s impossible...

User
Posted 23 Jul 2026 at 19:28
Hi RS-42

Glad to hear that the procedure went well, something to look back on now rather than to have to anticipate!

Th period until MDT/results and treatment pathway is going to be tough, but it will get better when things get clearer.

Personally I found the Headspace app to be just the thing for me, it takes a bit of getting used to and getting into the mindset to meditate but this old dog learnt a few new tricks! Their Coping with Cancer course was really good. You do have to pay about £50 pa but I have found it very worthwhile.

I also have a "Snoozeband" which is an eye pad with vey flat earphones built in so you can sleep with it on, just bluetooth to your phone and put some relaxing sounds on - I use Radio 3 Unwind now after I really messed up my Spotify algorithm!!

All the best, keep us posted ?

Best wishes - stay positive

CeePee

User
Posted 23 Jul 2026 at 20:00
Thanks again, CeePee.

I will look into your kind suggestions.

Best,

R

User
Posted 23 Jul 2026 at 20:09

Hi L,

You might see the comments I recently made to Graham, which relate to our shared mental battles.

Please stay connected.

Best,

R

 

 
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