Moree resident Greg Johnston is recovering from prostate cancer surgery and preparing to begin radiation therapy. Photo supplied.
Moree resident Greg Johnston is preparing to begin 33 radiation therapy sessions after being diagnosed with prostate cancer, and he has a simple message for other men: don’t put off speaking with your doctor about PSA testing.
Greg is recovering from surgery to remove his prostate. His diagnosis came unexpectedly after blood tests were ordered while he was being investigated for shingles.
“At the moment I’m recovering well from having my prostate removed,” Greg said.
“It’s been a challenging few months, but I’m staying positive and taking each day as it comes. I know I still have a long way to go, but I’m determined to keep fighting.”
Moree Online News first reported on Greg’s diagnosis in June, when family and friends launched a fundraiser to help Greg and his wife, Tracey, with treatment-related expenses. The original $10,000 fundraising target has since been reached.
Greg thanked everyone who donated, shared the fundraiser or offered support and encouragement during what he described as a challenging period.
He now hopes sharing his experience will encourage other men to pay closer attention to their health.
An unexpected diagnosis
Before his diagnosis, Greg had experienced difficulty urinating and a stinging sensation but assumed it may have been a urinary infection or another minor issue.
“Prostate cancer wasn’t even on my radar,” he said.
During investigations for shingles, Greg’s doctor ordered blood tests, including a PSA test. Greg said the results showed something wasn’t right, leading to further tests and the diagnosis of what he described as a highly aggressive form of prostate cancer.
“It was a huge shock, but I’m incredibly grateful it was found when it was, because every day counts with an aggressive cancer,” he said.
The next stage
Greg underwent surgery to remove his prostate, followed by a six-week recovery period. Because the cancer had extended beyond the prostate, his doctors recommended radiation therapy to treat any remaining cancer cells.
“The next step is 33 consecutive daily sessions of radiation therapy over several weeks,” Greg said.
“After that, I’ll continue to have regular PSA blood tests and follow-up appointments so my doctors can monitor my progress.”
Greg said his specialists were optimistic about the treatment plan and believed he had a good chance of a positive outcome. He acknowledged, however, there were no guarantees.
“While I’m hopeful, I know there are no guarantees and I’ll continue to be monitored closely into the future,” he said.
“Right now, I’m focusing on staying positive, following my treatment plan and doing everything I can to give myself the best possible chance.”
Greg said he was looking forward to completing treatment, returning to work and spending time with his family.
A message to other men
Greg encouraged men to speak with their doctor if something didn’t feel right and discuss whether PSA testing was appropriate for them.
“Because prostate cancer doesn’t always have obvious symptoms in the early stages, a simple conversation with your doctor could save your life,” he said.
“A PSA test is only a blood test and takes just a few minutes. If my experience encourages even one man to get tested sooner, then sharing my story is worthwhile.”
For men who continue to put off a health check, Greg had a straightforward message.
“Don’t put it off,” he said.
“We all get busy with work, family and life, but your health has to come first. I want to be around to support my wife and watch my granddaughters grow up and that’s what keeps me going.
“Taking a few minutes to have a blood test could make all the difference. It could save your life.”
