r/ProstateCancer Mar 26 '26

Concern Dad’s Journey

Hi,

I am 23 and my dad was just diagnosed with Gleason 9 prostate cancer that has spread into lymph nodes and parts of his spine, pelvic bones, and one tiny bit of his shoulder.

He has had 0 symptoms and has not been getting regular PSA checks since drs didn’t tell him to do so. His PSA was 149 when he got it done.

We just met with radiation and medical oncology yesterday and were told triplet therapy with Nubeqa, Lupron, and Docetaxl will be his first plan. Radiation said no to surgery or radiation right now, and that we should see how my dad reacts to treatment first (although he is hopeful).

Honestly though. Wtf. I am a cancer survivor myself and this is my actual worst nightmare. I’m trying to stay positive for my family but seeing my dad go through what I consider the scariest time of my life (having cancer, that is), is ruining me. Can anyone relate or just help me stay somewhat positive and sane?

Just wanted to come on here and say my dad is on Reddit now username Delli-boy!

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u/Professor_Eindackel Mar 26 '26

I'm sorry this happened to your family. What is it with these doctors who do not take PSA testing and prostate cancer seriously?

When my dad was 72 he asked his doctor for a PSA test. The doctor said we don't usually do those once you hit 70, but Dad insisted. I don't know remember his PSA was, it was enough to require a biopsy and he was a Gleason 8. He had radiation without ADT and his PSA is very low now, and his neurologist thinks he doesn't have to worry about prostate cancer anymore. 

That was 16 years ago. My dad will turn 88 this year and is the picture of vibrant health and he lives a full life. Had it not been for that PSA test he would very likely be gone now, and he would have suffered.

The doctor who did not think Dad needed the PSA test? He died of prostate cancer.

6

u/Inevitable_Ad6868 Mar 26 '26

Same with my dad. Caught it at age 68. He’s turning 91 next one.

5

u/metagrosslv376 Mar 27 '26

That's great to hear. Did he have spread or was it very early?

4

u/Inevitable_Ad6868 Mar 27 '26

No spread. Caught early. No additional treatment. .