It’s been a while since I have posted to my blog. Today’s update will be brief. The past few years have been a bit challenging, but after a knee replacement and cardiac ablation, I’m now exercising more, and am ready to tackle the ZERO Prostate Cancer 5K Run again in Philly this year. Wish me luck! If you care to make a donation to this critically important organization which works to get us to the day where there is ZERO prostate cancer, here is the link to my race page.
Philadelphia Run/Walk: Mr. Jack Leitmeyer | ZERO Prostate Cancer Run/Walk
I’ve discussed my prostate cancer journey in previous posts, but in a nutshell, I was first diagnosed 7 years ago. With a low-risk grade 1 cancer, I was a prime candidate for active surveillance, since the risks associated with treatment can be worse than the treatment itself. The survival rate is close to 100% for men with non-aggressive prostate cancer like mine, with or without treatment, as long as they stay on top of it. Over the past 7 years, I’ve had 4 biopsies, 4 MRIs, and about 15 PSA blood tests. While the volume of cancer is increasing and my PSA continues to rise, it is still non-aggressive and my MRIs are negative, so I continue to be the postage child for active surveillance. I love my oncologist, Dr. Andres Correa, at the Fox Chase Cancer Center. Not only do I meet with him on a regular basis and he performs my biopsies, but I’ve also attended a webinar he presented to my Active Surveillance Patients International group. He has noted that the odds are increasing that I will need treatment at some point, as 12 of my latest 16 biopsies samples had grade 1 cancer, but for now they continue to recommend surveillance. A common side effect of treatment (radiation and/or prostatectomy) is incontinence, and I certainly don’t want to risk the possibility of requiring Depends undergarments for the rest of my life if it isn’t necessary. The longer I can safely wait, the better, as new therapies and new technology are continuing to be developed all the time.
ZERO Prostate Cancer has been a great organization in supporting my journey. From the day I was diagnosed, I used resources from ZERO to get a better understanding of the disease and treatment options. I’ve attended numerous training sessions and conferences and Summit meetings over the years, learning about the latest developments in diagnosis and treatment, advocating on Capitol Hill for funding for research and patient education, and meeting other survivors. I have learned that everyone’s story is different, so the more people I talk to, the more information I have to know what questions to ask.
Just one of the many stories I heard came from my friend Jodi (photo below) who writes:
“Every 15 minutes, prostate cancer claims another life. Three years ago, my husband Chris became one of them at just 56 years old…far too young, far too soon. Chris was healthy, active, and disciplined… an avid runner who cared about his diet and well-being. But despite doing everything right, he was not screened early enough. Just three years before, we had also lost his father to prostate cancer. We did not know about the hereditary risks, and that lack of awareness prevented early testing that might have saved Chris. His cancer was aggressive. Within only six months of his diagnosis, treatment options in the U.S. had been exhausted, and we were forced to seek care abroad. That painful journey revealed what so many families face, the urgent need for greater awareness, more research, and stronger support systems here at home. That is why I am committed to fighting for change. By supporting this fundraiser to honor Chris for ZERO Prostate Cancer, you are not only honoring his memory…you are directly helping patients and families who need resources, community, and hope. Every dollar matters. Every gift brings us closer to a future with better outcomes, greater awareness, and one day a cure. Chris lived life full of love, laughter, and generosity. Supporting this mission is one way to carry forward his legacy and change the future for others.
ZERO STIGMA. ZERO BARRIERS. ZERO PROSTATE CANCER. Thank you for standing with me in the fight to end prostate cancer.”
So, I will continue my journey with the help of my family, friends, doctors, fellow survivors, and support groups like ZERO Prostate Cancer. Please make a donation to ZERO in support of my run if you are able, and I will keep you all updated on my progress. Thank you!
Philadelphia Run/Walk: Mr. Jack Leitmeyer | ZERO Prostate Cancer Run/Walk
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