The Story of Pat, Monty and Prostate Cancer

Pat started going out with Andy in 1990 without either of them suspecting prostate cancer was part of their relationship.

In 1993 Pat was pregnant when they both became aware that Andy had problems. Andy went to the doctors and was told he had a possible hernia or groin strain. On another visit he was told it was possibly cystitis. Pat had her doubts and told Andy to go back to the doctors.

It was now December 1993 and Andy was 45. The doctor gave him an examination and referred him to a consultant.

In February 1994 Andy and Pat, with their new baby, were devastated when the consultant told Andy that he had prostate cancer and had six months to live. Once the hormone treatment took effect Andy survived for thirteen years.

Andy, as well as being a City Councillor, became a spokesperson for the Prostate Cancer Charity, trying to assist others who had concerns or problems.

Sadly Andy died in November 2006.

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In 2000 Monty was diagnosed as having a hernia. This was repaired.

In 2002 similar symptoms returned and Monty was told it was possibly another hernia. Monty was told to return to the doctor if symptoms worsened. The symptoms never got worse.

In 2004 a work colleague of Pat’s died of prostate cancer. Monty filled the vacant position on a panel he had been working on.

In February 2007 Monty’s wife had a sudden fatal heart attack.

When Monty returned to work after this shock, Pat noticed how much losing his wife had affected him and later phoned to offer her condolences. They found they had several similar interests and both being left without partners eventually started going out together.

In May Pat noticed Monty had the same symptoms as Andy. Monty told Pat that he had been told it was a possible hernia. This rang alarm bells with Pat remembering what Andy had been told. Pat told Monty to CHECK IT OUT for prostate cancer.

Monty was found to be in need of urgent treatment and had his prostate gland removed in September 2007.

Monty and Pat are now looking forward for a long and healthy life together.