Tom Says: “I’m Saddened and Angry…”
Dan Fogelberg achieved a modicum of success as a singer and songwriter in the 1980’s and it’s likely that many of you have never heard of him.
He spent much of his career in folk music, but also transitioned into rock, jazz and even country with hits like, “Leader of the Band” and “Same Old Lang Syne.”
I see where he passed away this past weekend from prostate cancer, and anytime I see or hear of someone in their mid-fifties dying from prostate cancer, it saddens me — and at the same time — makes me very angry.
Far too many men in their prime die from prostate cancer needlessly. I think it has become the largest killer of men of all the cancers which are highly treatable today.
Having been diagnosed with prostate cancer about seven years ago, I have become a bit of a crusader in hoping that some day — prostate cancer will become a thing of the past.
I get most upset when I talk to guys over the age of 40 and ask them if they’ve ever been checked out. It must be a macho thing when they reply: “I don’t go to the doctor, cause I’m afraid of what he’s gonna tell me…”
What a stupid answer and what a dumb attitude.
Prostate cancer is really quite easy to detect, in some cases can be easily treated and if caught early enough — is almost one-hundred per cent curable.
One visit to your doctor’s office just once a year for a routine prostate exam and an accompanying blood test is all it takes. If that time and effort is too much to ask, then don’t come crying on my shoulder.
My cancer was found during a routine blood test and a visit to the doctor — then a course of treatment was laid out.
I didn’t have chemotherapy, I didn’t have radiation, but I did have the prostate removed and luckily the cancer had been discovered in the very early stages and it was slow moving.
I’ve had a few urinary problems, but compared to what would have happened had I not gone to the doctor for a routine test in the first place, somebody else would have been writing this blog.
Listen guys, give up this macho crap. If you’re over 40, you’re nuts if you’re not having a prostate exam and a simple blood test at least once a year.
The blood tests I’ve had every six months since having my prostate removed indicate I’m cancer free — so get on with it…
I’m Tom Young.