My name is Sandra.  My dad, Frank, was diagnosed with prostate cancer last month.  The doctors say it is curable and he will be starting radiation therapy next week.  He has Parkinson's Disease so surgury isn't an option for him.  We are all worried about how the radiation treatments will affect him.  The doctors haven't really said anything about side effects or pain during the treatments.  If anyone could give us an idea of what to expect we would really appreciate it. 

Hi Sandra:  I am sorry to hear about your dad, but I have some good news for you.  My husband also has prostate cancer where surgery is not an option either.  His has spread to his hip, shoulder & some lymph nodes.  He has just finished 10 radiation treatments and has done very well!  He was able to work throughout the treatments, with the only side effect being some tiredness.  Two days after the last treatment, he developed some blistering on his thigh.  These blisters lasted only about 2 weeks.  So don't worry!  Your dad will do just fine.  If I can help you in any way, please let me know.  We are all in this together!

Hi Debm,

  Thanks for writing.  My dad had his first radiation treatment on Jan 2.  So far things are going smooth for him.  They were going to do 42 ten minute treatments but because of the parkinsons they will now do 5 thirty minute treatments.  Thanks for your words of encouragement.  You and your husband are in our prayers.

Hi Sandra:  Hope all is going well with your dad.  My husband's PSA is now down to minus zero!  Tomorrow is our appointment with the oncologist.  I'm assuming they will do another body scan, so if you could please keep us in your prayers, I would appreciate it!  I am continuing to do the same for you.  Please keep me posted. 

Sandra, I have undergone radiation therapy for prostate cancer. I am 55 years old,and in relatively good health otherwise. I finished the treatments about a year ago, and have gone in every 3 months to get screened. My understanding is that I get screened every 3 months for 3 years, then twice a year for 2 years, then annually. I am considered in remission now, and when I make it to 5 years, I will be cancer free once again. The radiation wasn't bad, but it was no piece of cake either. It left me drained each day, and the side affects included having to have my gall bladder removed. I had a bit of trouble urinating, and my bowels were not the same for a few months. I have mostly recovered from the treatment successfully. My sex life has changed, but not vanished. It just take a little longer now. Life has returned to normal, but a new normal. It's what I considered the "best" option, and I'm grateful for the technology of today. I'd be happy to talk to you or your dad about any of it.