A. Lee Bennett Jr.5d ago
The day is here. Headed to the hospital for a prostatectomy. Had elevated PSA in last bloodwork. MRI led to a needle biopsy which has led to surgery today. Honestly feeling confident of the procedure. Also the recovery even though things are really gonna suck for a while. But I’m on FMLA for a month to recoup. Advice welcome from anyone who’s done this. And ƒµ¢‡ cancer.
Show threadA. Lee Bennett Jr.4d ago

Surgery apparently went very well. So I’m told. Surprise two-for-one, they discovered I had a minor hernia in my abdomen. They repaired that at the same time.

Now comes the recovery which includes ignoring the overwhelming urge to catch up on my work e-mail. Nope. FMLA forbids it.

Show threadA. Lee Bennett Jr.2d ago

So update on me: stayed an extra night at hospital coz my pain level wasn’t quite yet where I felt it should be. Came home this afternoon, settled on the sofa for a nap, and woke to. 101.4 fever. Came to ER and temp was 102.4.

So ya, I’m being treated for infection and possible sepsis. I’ll get readmitted tonight. No idea yet if just one night or longer.

Good news is I’m doing very well in terms of pain. Bladder cramps that had been awful are minimal now.

Show threadA. Lee Bennett Jr.

Next day update. Had REALLY bad night starting with chills and the MOST violent shivering I’ve ever experienced. Finally warmed up and awoke to sweats and still feverish.

Still no growth from blood cultures but waiting full 36 hours to be sure. Loaded me up with antibiotics which I know will take their toll (I know I know—probiotics). Good news is infection seems to be diminishing and seems to have never become septic. Currently feeling pretty good but will likely be in hospital till Monday.

Jun 20 at 12:51amIvory for iOS
Show threadA. Lee Bennett Jr.1d ago
At least the morning view from my hospital room didn’t entirely suck.
Show threadA. Lee Bennett Jr.21h ago

THEY GOT IT ALL!!!!

Early afternoon, urologist came to say the pathology on my prostate came back. Though more aggressive than first thought (4+3 instead of 3+4), report said clean margins!!! Lymph nodes at zero!!!

Doc didn’t use these words, but I’m translating it as I AM CANCER FREE!

And since I’m still in the hospital due to the infection and sepsis scare (thankfully it appears I avoided sepsis), doc says it’s not out of the question to have my catheter removed Monday instead of Wednesday.

Show threadGed Maheux17h ago
@leebennett YAY!!! Congrats my friend. That’s great news. Very happy for you!
Show threadCarolyn17h ago
@leebennett Congratulations!!!! That is wonderful news.