Wendell G - Cancer

I was at my yearly wellness visit in 2020, which included a routine PSA screening. Because the number was significantly higher than at my last visit, my primary care physician, Dr. Jeff Clary, referred me to a urologist.
I saw Dr. Michael Pryor first and was then scheduled for a biopsy with a surgical oncologist. They took 11 samples and seven came back positive for prostate cancer. I was devastated by the diagnosis but started preparing for surgery.

The surgery was minimally invasive with only five small incisions. My care team was great, even though COVID-19 was in full swing. Recovery had its own challenges but after a couple of months, I was starting to feel like myself again. I was on the road to recovery and visiting my urologist regularly for follow up PSA testing.

In June 2022, my world was turned upside down when my PSA levels were again elevated. I was referred to a radiation oncologist. We started with a PET scan and a bone density screening to determine my treatment plan, which was 38 rounds of radiation. I was scared, having no idea what was in store for me over the next seven and a half weeks. But I did know I was in good hands.

Working at Pelham Medical Center and Gibbs Cancer Center for several years had given me a chance to get to know many of the physicians. I knew I was going to get the best care possible, not because I worked there, but because I had seen firsthand the expert and compassionate care given to all patients.

Dr. Daniel Fried and his team were fantastic. Everyone was so encouraging and kept me positive by always saying what a great job I was doing, even though it didn’t feel like it. Because I worked in the building, I would have my radiation treatments first thing in the morning and then work the rest of the day. My care team was amazed I was able to do that. There were times I didn’t want to, but I knew I had to keep going and not feel sorry for myself. Their encouragement helped me get through the toughest days.

Radiation isn’t easy. There are side effects, and it’s not for the faint of heart. However, I’m grateful for the outcome and for Dr. Fried. I’m now cancer free and continuing my treatment plan along with PSA screenings every three months.