Many of you will know that almost a decade ago, I was found to have prostate cancer.

Least aggressive

Thankfully, the cancer was ‘micro’ and of the least aggressive type flavour.

The consultant recommended a ‘watch and pounce’ approach with six monthly PSA checks. These checks have stayed constant and have raised no cause for concern.

Benign enlargement

The nuisance was that a few years ago, the prostate began to swell causing difficulty in peeing. Investigation found this to be caused by ‘benign’ swelling (benign prostatic hyperplasia – BPH) of the prostate which is reasonably common in men as they age.

Initially, I was put on the drug Tamulosin to relax the prostate. This worked for a period of time, but as its effectiveness declined another drug was prescribed called Finasteride.

This was simply horrid. At first there was intense itching. Then man-boobs started appearing. As the itching worsened, HoLep surgery was recommended.

HoLep

On 27 November 2012, I was admitted to the Circle Hospital, Berkshire, where I had a HoLep operation.

But after a year, peeing became difficult again. Having moved to Guernsey I met with the Island’s Urologist, Mr Owen Cole, of the Medical Specialist Group.

An MRI was conducted which was found to be clear. However, it showed that 30% by volume of the prostate was scar tissue caused by the HoLep.

Princess Elizabeth Hospital

So today I’m off to the Princess Elizabeth Hospital to have a TURP. It’s recommended to stay for three days.

Thankfully my private insurance covers this and provides two main benefits: the urologist’s mobile number, and the Chef.

The Chef

Apparently, Chef will come and take orders for what I’d like to eat. And if it’s not on the à la Carte menu, he’ll secure the ingredients and cook it for me.

Result!

Somehow, I feel masses amounts of scallops to be the order of my stay in hospital.

Piers
Sick Bay
Play d’eau
Fleming 55
Beaucette Marina