Mike Thies
D-III (retired ’89) LAPD

Prostate Cancer

Treatments to date: radical prostatectomy (surgery), radiation, hormone therapy
I was diagnosed in 2000 at the age of 56 through a routine PSA blood test. No symptoms were previously experienced. My initial PSA was 9.3 and the post surgical Gleason score was 4+3. These markers indicate a relatively advanced stage of the cancer.

My primary cancer care physician is a urologist/surgeon, formerly on staff at Mayo Clinic, with many years of experience in his field. He came highly recommended and has turned out to be a skilled and caring doctor with a wonderfully humorous bedside manner. He is extremely thorough and spends a lot of time during my regular visits to his office. I note these attributes as a guideline for selecting your physician when you are diagnosed. It does make a difference!

After my diagnosis I conducted extensive research on prostate cancer and became involved in several online groups to assist others during their treatment for prostate cancer. Having been exposed to Agent Orange during a tour in Vietnam, I also became aware of the correlation between the defoliant and several cancers including that of the prostate. Members should be aware that the Veterans Administration provides assistance and benefits to any veteran exposed to Agent Orange during periods of active treatment for these cancers.

I am available anytime through email at marlinmstr@aol.com or by my cell phone at (213) 509-3778 to assist anyone who would like to discuss my experiences dealing with the disease.

Recommended reading:

Report to the Nation on Prostate Cancer, A Guide for Men and Their Families. A copy can be obtained by contacting the Prostate Cancer Foundation at (310) 570-4700 or via email at info@prostatecancerfoundation.org . Their website is: www.prostatecancerfoundation.org