Hello

My Story

I was diagnosed with prostate cancer at age 51 during routine testing for testosterone treatments. When my results came back, my prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test results were alarming; a PSA score of 4.0 is considered normal, whereas my score was 18. I was immediately referred to a urologist where a series of tests were ordered including CT scans, x-rays, bone scans, a biopsy, and several invasive probes. This process was embarrassing and challenged my ego and self-confidence. The examining of your most ‘intimate’ areas began to crush my sense of pride. Women routinely go through processes like this...in a small way, I now understand.”

At over 400 lbs., my treatments were postponed, and I was placed on a weight-loss plan to shed enough weight to move forward with a new type of radiation treatment. Unable to lose enough weight in a 90-day window, I was given another referral.

In August of 2022, I began the first of 44 radiation treatments. I am incredibly grateful for the treatment center staff’s gracious and caring nature, as coming in every day to expose your private parts to receive care was daunting in the beginning. Unfortunately, during cancer treatment life doesn’t stop. Both the physical and mental struggles of this condition kept me from performing my job duties as an insurance agent, leading to the loss of job sponsored insurance; luckily, I was able to utilize SoonerCare to complete my treatments. I am thankful that the vote for Medicaid Expansion was successful. I never thought I would be the one who needed it! Financial issues never make medical conditions better. I stayed with my aunt during my treatments as she lives near the treatment center. This relieved the burden of a one-hour daily commute five times per week, for that I am grateful as well

Before this process, I was not aware of the statistics for African American men and prostate cancer.  I found that African American men account for 70% of all new cases of prostate cancer with similar numbers related to those who die from this disease and that experts indicate that prostate cancer is becoming even more aggressive in our demographic. I now use this information and my experiences to mentor and educate others who are going through similar circumstances.

In my humble opinion, treatment for cancer must include a mental health component, not only for the patient, but also how the patient should be treating loved ones and their support system during this health crisis. Controlling how we treat our loved ones and care staff just makes for a healthier environment.