Prostate Cancer: Community helps our recovery

He underwent prostate removal in April. Now free from cancer, but will remain tested every three months over three years, he said: “Diagnosing cancer early can save lives – although you feel as if everything around you has collapsed when first learning of its presence. Early diagnosis gives hope.” “After they removed my prostate, doctors told me it is likely cancerous cells would have spread into my bones unless surgery had taken place first. So far I consider myself very fortunate.” Richard Donaldson works part-time as a creel fisherman; during treatment at Pittodrie he experienced fatigue but found significant relief thanks to this course. “Coming into this group provides a sense of comfort as someone newly diagnosed with prostate cancer often feels isolated and alone,” explained Jonathan. “Everyone here shares similar struggles while providing valuable knowledge of how prostate cancer affects one another.” “How has this course helped?” He answered: “This course helped me combat fatigue; instructors and dieticians have been fantastic. Since I’ve taken part, I have lost approximately half a stone by changing how I look at food as well as trying to live healthier overall. When fatigue strikes you must fight back – now, when fatigue hits I feel great!” Richard Donaldson and Monica are receiving support through Pittodrie’s 12-week programme to lower body mass index (BMI – which measures ratio of height to weight to estimate body fat) and blood pressure. Each 90-minute session was divided between nutrition advice – to minimize side effects – and fitness classes. Elaine Stewart, Prostate Scotland’s Services Development Manager lauded Prostate FFIT (Football Fans in Training). Stewart saw it as an overwhelming success: hundreds enrolled across Scotland took part, participating in aerobic, strength, balance and flexibility exercises on or near an artificial pitch, weather permitting. An updated program will begin shortly into next year’s plan. Elaine Stewart stated another FFIT programme (Prostate Fans In Training). “We receive incredible feedback from men about Prostate FFIT making an immense difference as they undergo prostate cancer treatment, an emotional, psychological and physical journey. How Can You Join? She explained that due to its success, they will launch another Prostate FFIT programme at Pittodrie starting January 29. “We encourage men undergoing prostate cancer treatments in Aberdeenshire who wish to sign up and join in” she advised. “Coming out to exercise, meet others, and have some fun is a fantastic opportunity to clear your head – let us support your journey!” Richard Donaldson pictured here with sons Gregor, 21, left, and Ross, 18, who both support Rangers is one such participant of this exercise program run by cancer exercise coach Nicola Graham. Her intention for participants in her class is to improve quality of life so we teach transferrable exercises they can perform at home gradually building these up over time.” “Mr Donaldson, an avid Rangers supporter himself, noted no competition within his group despite most members hailing from Aberdeen – “Cancer has no colours” was what he explained – no discrimination here because everyone knows which team is superior.” What Is Prostate Cancer?The prostate gland is approximately the size of a walnut and sits just beneath the bladder within the pelvis, surrounding a tube called the urethra that delivers urine directly out through penis. Prostate cancer – abnormal and uncontrolled cell growth – often develops slowly without noticeable symptoms for years, in fact for some it may never cause issues; yet aggressive cancer cases could develop rapidly without warning; early diagnosis offers greater chances for successful treatment outcomes.”