A Prostate Cancer diagnosis turned life upside down for Lisburn man Stuart Rainey, bringing fear, uncertainty and countless questions, especially as he had experienced no symptoms beforehand.
Now, during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, Stuart is sharing his story to encourage other men to be aware of their risk and seek medical advice if something does not feel right.
Prostate Cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, with more than 64,000 men diagnosed every year. It affects one in eight men during their lifetime.
In its early stages, Prostate Cancer often presents with no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include difficulty urinating or blood in urine or semen.
Stuart, who was diagnosed in 2020, has now been given, the “five year, all clear” and is urging men who may feel or experience that something maybe ‘off’ with their prostate function to seek an appointment with their GP.
Stuart explained, “I was 46 when I was diagnosed, I remember it was my birthday. I had been experiencing some pain in my hip and because I had a family history of Prostate Cancer. I went to my GP for a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test. My PSA levels were elevated and after an MRI and a biopsy, it was confirmed that I had Prostate Cancer.”
Stuart described learning of his diagnosis as, “devastating”. “I had two young children, aged 10 and 12 at the time and my first thought was, ‘What’s next?’ It was a very difficult time for all of us.”
Stuart continued, “Because my cancer was caught so early it had not spread. I was given a choice of treatment options and decided to have my prostate removed.”
Stuart praised the care and compassion he received from the Ulster Hospital Medical Team and Urology Specialist Nurse, Pamela Neill and Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Claire Cassells.
“My care both before and after surgery was first class. I tend to worry and always had lots of questions, but the Nursing staff were always there, they always had the answers and nothing was too much trouble. It felt like I was talking to someone I knew.”
Now, six years on, Stuart says he feels “healthy and fit“ and is enjoying life with his family, “I love getting out walking and have started exploring the Mournes with my family. I am even planning to go wild camping with my son.
“I feel incredibly lucky that I had the initial blood test which led to my diagnosis and the support of the Team at the Ulster Hospital.”
Stuart stressed how any man who may have concerns, to contact their GP. “There is nothing to feel embarrassed about. The earlier Prostate Cancer is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat and the less chance there is of it spreading.”
South Eastern Trust, Urology Specialist Nurse, Pamela Neill said, “If you are over 50, or have a family history of Prostate Cancer, speak to your GP about your risk, especially if you notice any urinary changes, blood in urine or semen or persistent pelvic or back pain.
“The PSA blood test can help detect prostate problems early, but it is not a definitive test for cancer. Knowing your risk and speaking to your GP could save your life.
“It is also important to be aware that PSA levels can be affected by factors such as recent ejaculation, vigorous cycling or urinary infections, which can temporarily raise levels. Always discuss the timing of your test with your GP.”