"Skilled and caring staff for my prostate cancer journey"

Blood tests that followed colon surgery in 2023 showed elevated PSA levels. I was referred to urology who continued to monitor my PSA levels and then sent me for a pelvic MRI scan.

This showed a lesion on the prostate which was then further examined and biopsies were taken. The results showed cancer within the prostate and a Gleason score of 7 (3-4). I was given the choice between hormone therapy, radiotherapy or surgery and after speaking to oncologist, Ms Niblock in Ninewells and surgeon Ms Royale in Aberdeen, I opted for surgery which took place in February 2025.

I felt very fortunate and very grateful that specialist urology nurse Graeme had been so proactive in my care, as I had not been experiencing any symptoms and I would not otherwise have sought help.

Pre-surgery I attended an excellent session in the Maggie's Centre at Ninewells and the information provided by Graeme and the attending physio provided reassurance and guidance which allowed me to prepare physically and mentally for what was to come.

My surgery went very well and Ms Royale is clearly not only a very skilled surgeon but an excellent communicator. From the admission procedure to my stay in Ward 209/Ucan centre in Aberdeen everything ran smoothly.

Post-operatively, both Ward 209 in Aberdeen and the urology team in Ninewells were available to contact and responded quickly to any concerns or questions that I had. Again, everyone was so helpful and all staff members communicated in a professional but also very personal manner, which was greatly appreciated.

Now, 4 months after my operation and with 2 tests that have shown undetectable PSA levels under my belt, I feel very blessed to have been treated by such skilled and caring people and very fortunate that my cancer had been caught at such an early stage.