Mr Declan Cahill

“I can only describe the care that I received from Dr. Cahill as outstanding and lifesaving. To truly appreciate the quality of the care and the effect that it has had on me, I would like to share my story. Prostate cancer in my family My first experience with prostate cancer occurred over 40 years ago when my father diagnosed with prostate cancer and had subsequent surgery to have his prostate removed. Although my father survived the surgery, the resulting complications were very dispiriting to him. A man who had survived two World Wars was devastated by his lack of continence and his inability to regain bladder control. Within 2 years he was a shadow of his former self and died just before my 18th birthday. I vowed that I would never put myself through a prostatectomy. I would much rather bear the consequences of dying a slow death through cancer rather than deal with the humiliation and decline of having my prostate removed. Almost 40 years later my brother, who was 12 years older, developed prostate cancer. Like me, he had seen the decline and demise of our father and had been reluctant to have his PSA tested. Eventually the discomfort was too great, he had his PSA tested and was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Although he lived for another 5years, the last 2 years were particularly painful as cancer metastasized to his bones and he died in November 2018. Because of my fear of having a prostatectomy I was slow to accept that there was a strong likelihood that I would develop prostate cancer as well. Eventually though I couldn’t deny the facts and had my PSA taken at the end of 2018. When the result came back as 14,t I knew that my worst fears were about to come to life. Honestly, I didn’t know what I would do at that point. However when my G.P., Dr Watson gave me a referral to go the Royal Marsden , I researched the reputation of the hospital and the specialization in prostatectomy and decided that I would probably never get a better opportunity to consider my options. Diagnosis and treatment at the Royal Marsden Right from the start I was very impressed with the diagnosis and treatment given to me.. A few experiences in particular stand out from that time. The first was when I went in for the initial magnetic resonance imaging procedure. Being terribly claustrophobic I found facing a metal tube a few inches from my face more that I could bear. I was ready to leave and never come back. However the technician was understanding and eventually was able to provide a solution where slightly less of my torso was in the machine and I was able to crane my neck back to look at the ceiling. I shudder to think where I would be now but for the calm words and willingness to help of a person whose name I have sadly forgotten. The next experience came during biopsy when a very kind nurse asked me if I would like her to hold my hand. Not wanting to show fear or weakness I refused but her response warmed my heart and I was glad she offered her hand. “ She said I know you don’t need it but this procedure scares me a little bit would you mind holding mine?” Lastly, I was able to attend a Q and A given by a former prostatectomy patient. This gentleman was in his 70’s and had had a prostatectomy having previously had radiation therapy. Despite the difficulties he had endured he was upbeat and very much looking forward to life. I decided then that if he at his age could have gone through radiation therapy and a prostatectomy so could I. The Operation The timing of my operation came 3days before the first Covid lockdown on March 23rd. I was very grateful to receive a phone call from Dr. Cahill the day before the operation describing the risks involved because of Covid but also saying that if he were in my shoes he would do it. I was acutely aware of the risk of infection from having major surgery and a catheter in place. While it was my own decision in the end , it was great that he anticipated my concerns which made my decision that much easier. Recovery More than 2 years later and everything is going very well. My biggest fear incontinence was never a problem, I had bladder control instantly upon removal of my catheter. Although some nerve was removed during the operation, within a few months I was able to achieve an erection unaided. This was quite a big surprise.. 2 years later and things have only gotten better. Making love is different now but in some ways even more satisfying.. PSA tests have so far shown < 0.01. Summary Please excuse this long winded approach to describing my experience. However I think my story is unusual and only hope that others who fear having their PSA checked or going in for surgery will take some solace from the fact that a skeptic like me was able to overcome my fears. The entire process was professional and personal and guided me towards making the right decision. I am so thankful for the care and skill given to Dr. Cahill and his team at the Royal Marsden. “