My Prostatectomy Changed Me But I'm Happy to Report I'm Doing Good!

[@elaineen1]

Again, as I have commented in prior videos, thank you so much for sharing your journey into basically an unknown land. I am glad you have recovered and hope your catheter invention is successful. I have metastatic prostrate cancer which was detected when I could not urinate. This happened as I was arranging my wife's funeral. She died unexpectedly of a brain stroke. Terrible timing. As you say not being able to urinate is traumatic. You do not know what you have until you don't. Your information was practical and helped. Ten months later the urologist performed a "Holep"(?) laser procedure. I can pee again at last. I used diapers at night for about a month and on days where I would travel where I did not know where the bathrooms were located. Now I pee more frequently but I thank God I can do so. No need for diapers. The cancer still exists but has not spread and is under control. My PSA went from 412 to 0.7 after a years treatment. Thanks again for the videos.

[@maletenance]

Thank you for the kind words and I am happy and humbled that the videos helped you navigate so much of the unknown. You have been through so much and I am very sorry for the loss of your wife. Life can be infinitely unfair at times, with no rhyme or reason as to why bad things happen. I am very glad to read that your cancer is under control , PSA is way down and you're out of diapers. Those are wins to acknowledge. I wish you continued health and send you blessings. Cheers, Tony

[@elaineen1]

@@maletenance Thank you.

[@davidlundy5007]

I’m 70 and just got back from the hospital after getting the Aquablation procedure on my prostate. Have to wear this catheter in for a week. There was quite the anxiety issue I was having in the many months with my urologist and insurance getting to this point. I’ve dealt with problem for at least 10 years getting worse year after year. Thank you so much for your vids.

[@maletenance]

You are so welcome David. I'm sorry you have to deal with all of this but hopefully it' an end to a means. You'll truly be amazed at how great it is to urinate like a racehorse.

[@anthonybellavia4451]

Totally relate to all you said, absolutely!

[@maletenance]

It's a club that we never thought we'd ever be a part of but here we all are. If I can lend some support/compassion/understanding by sharing my journey, then hopefully the club members won't feel so alone. Just trying to do my part. Cheers, and wishing you great health. Tony

[@PacificBlue51]

Thanks for the update. Your positivity and general outlook will continue to move you forward in a very good way. I have and am dealing with some very similar issues. Gratitude for what is and has been improved is beyond helpful. Best to you.

[@maletenance]

@PacificBlue51 Thank you for the kind words and support. I send it right back to you too! Cheers, and wishing you and your loved ones great health. Tony

[@PacificBlue51]

@@maletenance continue to be well and thrive. dave

[@SouthernIntelct]

Thank you for posting your story and perspective. My PCP and urologist have emphasized how young I am to have BPH. Overall, I'm good with it, but glad to hear you're enjoying life on the other side.

[@maletenance]

Hi, when I was going through my issues with BPH, living with a catheter, and then my procedure, there was no practical information out there to help. I thought maybe if I shared what I learned, it would help others, and I'm so glad I did because it has helped so many. You mentioned that you're a younger person with BPH......how old are you? I knew it was hitting younger people because my nurse mentioned seeing more people much younger than the usual above 50. When I asked her why, she did not have an answer. I am on a mission to reduce the age when a male should be screened. How are you doing?

[@SouthernIntelct]

​@@maletenance I'm 39. Got diagnosed at 38 because of something unrelated. I had the Urolift procedure a few weeks ago but doesn't seem like it was successful. Hopefully finding a solution soon.

[@maletenance]

Still, you are young to be dealing with all of this. Did does require some mental gymnastics to get through. I'm sorry to hear that the Urolift was not a success and I hope you find a solution soon. Hang in there.

[@SouthernIntelct]

@maletenance Question: Did you ever use a cathter valve instead of the bag? (And if it's addressed in one of your videos, please feel free to direct me there. I searched through the titles and watched a few videos I thought were related before asking.)

[@maletenance]

@@SouthernIntelct No, I used the urine bag the whole time. I plan on making a video about it, as many people have opted for the valve instead of using the bag, as it is less cumbersome. It does come with its own drawbacks, from what I understand, such as increased bladder spasms and your inability to tell when you need to void. There is an amazing, supportive FaceBook group called Foley Catheter Users-Medical Necessity, that has members who use a valve catheter and would be happy to share their experiences and answer your questions. Let me know how it goes. Here is the link: facebook.com/groups/409606162809349/