Work week number 2

and 2 full months since my surgery.

All in all, everything seems to be improving. Most of the discomfort that remains is now at a tolerable level so I was able to return to work last week. I'm still experiencing leg pains due to nerve related issues from the surgery, but with meds I'm able to get it to a workable level. My lack of energy hits me a bit later in the day than it used to, but usually by 5pm, I'm ready to lay down for about 4 hours. (not unlike many I'm sure)

 As you know one of the reasons I started this blog was to try to get the word out about this disease.  Yeah, we all know that cancer is bad and can happen to anyone. But did you know that the odds of men getting prostate cancer in their lifetime is 1 in 6?  Many of the cases are in men in their mid-fifties and older, but there is a larger number of cases beginning to show up in men in their 40's  - and even some in their 30's!

As always, early detection is the key. Detected early, prostate cancer can be successfully treated nearly 100% of the time. The later the diagnosis is made, the higher of a chance that surgery is the only option - and long term side effects due to the surgery, incontenience and impotence among them, can come in to play.

I have been in contact with an organization called Pints for Prostates and US Too International.  Us TOO is a grassroots organization started in 1990 by prostate cancer survivors to serve prostate cancer survivors, their spouses/partners and families.  Pints for Prostates supports educational and advocacy efforts in support of US Too.

Pints for Prostates is a campaign founded by prostate cancer survivor Rick Lyke  that uses the universal language of beer to reach men with a critical health message. Pints for Prostates has reached more than 60 million people with a message about the importance of PSA testing and regular prostate health screenings.

I am in the early stages of planning sponsored Pints for Prostates fund raising events in Connecticut. Thanks to the connections and friends I've made through my hobby of home brewing, the first of these should be taking place in early February 2010 with others to follow in the coming months through the year.

I'll be in the midst of my radiation therapy when this first event takes place.  It will be something I am going to use as positive motivation as I progress through my treatments.

As always, thank you all for your continued support and prayers. It has meant a great deal to myself, Janet and the boys.  May you all have a safe and Merry Christmas, and a healthy and prosperous 2010.  I know I'm certainly looking forward a new year . . . .  SHEESH!!!

Cheers!