Hi, my name is Kelvin and this is my experience with cancer.

Concerned about how often I was urinating and the discomfort I had, I sought medical attention from my general practitioner (GP). After a hospital referral, I was diagnosed with stage 3 prostate cancer.

My doctor’s recommended treatment plan was a radical prostatectomy to remove the entire prostate gland, radiation therapy and hormonal therapy. I proceeded with these treatment options, and am now on radiation therapy.

Worried about the fact that I was frequently urinating and experiencing discomfort, I consulted my general practitioner (GP) who subsequently referred me to a urologist at a hospital. That’s when I was diagnosed with stage 3 prostate cancer.

I resolved to make pivotal changes in my lifestyle, embracing a commitment to improving nutrition with a healthier diet while striving to cut down on my smoking habit.

My journey through cancer treatment involved a comprehensive plan recommended by my doctors, which included a

• radical prostatectomy - removal of entire prostate gland
• radiation therapy
• hormonal therapy

The decision to proceed with this regimen was influenced by my own research, consulting with loved ones, and the advice of medical professionals. But I have to admit that I felt scared and a little anxious when deciding upon this treatment regimen.

I’m currently on radiation therapy. In addition to conventional treatment, I have opted for alternative treatment methods like

• traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)
• nutritional supplements
• herbal remedies

While undergoing treatment, I encountered several side effects, including diarrhea, loss of appetite and weight fluctuations. Managing these challenges required a concerted effort, including improving my nutritional intake and adhering to prescribed medications.

Treatment has also caused some financial challenges. The medication that I’m on for hormonal therapy needs to be taken over the long term, so there’s the chance that I need to pay out-of-pocket costs to finance these medications.

Since beginning treatment, I've had to make some permanent adjustments to my lifestyle. While I've been striving to maintain a healthier diet every day of the week and stop smoking as often, I’m not able to exercise as much as I did before.

Unfortunately, due to my condition, my relationship with my three children has been impacted negatively. We aren’t able to spend as much time together as we used to, and we can’t go on our yearly family trips anymore. I hold onto the hope that we can celebrate Chinese New Year in 2024 to mark the end of my radiation treatment. For myself, I hope to progress smoothly to hormone therapy after radiation therapy.

Throughout my cancer journey, my biggest dream has been to return to my pre-cancer lifestyle. I yearn for the simple joys of meeting friends and practicing tai chi together in the morning. I’m hoping that once I’ve completed my radiation therapy regimen, I can go back to my (old) life.

I also hope to spend quality time with my loved ones, especially with the arrival of my newborn grandson. My greatest wish is to be present for my children and grandchildren.

My biggest fear throughout my journey to recovery was the fear of dying, as I still have many things I want to do in life and wish to enjoy it again after overcoming cancer. I sought support from my family, and I also consulted with a TCM doctor for Chinese herbs and supplements to improve my health and strength.

Reflecting on my emotions today, I felt both fearful and optimistic. The fear stemmed from uncertainty, but optimism kept me going. I felt frightened, overwhelmed, and worried, but at the same time, I felt hopeful.

For those currently on their own cancer journey, my advice is to celebrate the small things like completing treatment or having a good day. It's essential to celebrate these moments with family and cherish them.