"An experience I will always value"

After requesting a routine PSA test, I was eventually diagnosed with prostate cancer. The Gleason score did not not suggest a severe or aggressive grade of cancer but, given my age (80) and my relatively robust general health, a programme of daily radiotherapy lasting five weeks, was initiated. I was warned that the side-effects might last for a further 2-3 weeks.

I am not a nervous person but cancer of any kind is worrying. The information booklets outlined side-effects that made me expect a good deal of discomfort, including loss of bladder/bowel control in the latter half of the treatment.

The threatments were completely pain free thoughout, but side-effects began after the first week and were very uncomfortable. However when I reported this during my next treatment, the response was immediate.  A nurse consultation was arranged the same day and an anti-inflammatory ointment. was waiting for me next day. The ointment (Proctosedyl) worked very quickly and relieved much of my discomfort. I also found some incontinence pants for men that removed any worry about embarrassing 'accidents' in public. So far (and I am now in the post-treatment period) no accidents have occurred but I will continue using the pants until I my contol over my bodily functions is back to normal, All of the above was at least hinted at in the information booklets. I also expected, and received, a high level of competence and understanding from the radiotherapy staff. 

What was a complete surprise to me was the level of friendly warmth and engagement offered by every member of the treatment team. Without any waste of time, they were all prepared to chat, explain, sympathise and help in a way that made each treatment reassuring, supportive and almost a pleasure. Nothing was too much trouble and they all went out of their way to deal with any query or concern. There were many patients there every day and we soon got to recognise fellow patients. Although 'first day' nerves were evident from new patients, they were soon walking in with happy smiles and were welcomed into what seemed like a friendly 'drop in' club atmosphere.

No-one would regard radiotherapy treatment for prostate cancer as a pleasure but thanks to the amazing staff at Ninewells, I can honestly report that it became an experience I will always value.