I'm taking on March the Month

Ben, a prostate cancer survivor, march for March 11,000 steps every day in March

Raised

£1,349

Steps

My dad and I were recently both diagnosed after seeking out testing ourselves, him after advice from a friend also recently diagnosed and myself due to my Dad's diagnoses and after referring to the risk checker on the Prostate Cancer UK website, as this form of cancer can be linked to family history. These real-life examples go to highlight the urgent need for a more accessible and proactive screening process. More than 52,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year, making it the most common cancer that affects men. 1 in 8 men will develop Prostate Caner.

The NHS have been amazing since my (simple) blood test showed high levels of PSA, their care, attention and compassion have been very warmly welcomed by me and my family. However, it is a little frustrating to think that if we hadn't been proactive, our diagnoses could have come at a much later stage, potentially leading to more severe health consequences.

A lot of friends I have spoken to have had resistance from their GPs when asking for the PSA blood test. Mine told me it could lead to more invasive procedures, which in my case I am so very thankful I accepted that risk.

Early detection is crucial for prostate cancer, and a national screening program would significantly improve our chances of catching it early.

Men, know the signs and don't hesitate to seek help:
Frequent urination, especially at night
Weak or interrupted urine flow
Blood in urine
Pain or a burning sensation when urinating
Difficulty starting or stopping urination
Pain in the bones or back

Personally speaking, none of these really impacted me. I used to get up for a wee once a night and that was about it.

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, please see your GP. It's important to be aware of your body and take any changes seriously.

For more information and support, visit Prostate Cancer UK: https://lnkd.in/eHkKduqw

Together, we can make a difference and ensure that men across the UK have access to the necessary resources and support to combat prostate cancer.

I am one of the lucky ones, surgery kicked cancer into remission! And for that I am very thankful. It was caught early after a very simple blood test, which allowed for the heroes in the NHS to support me and helped me get rid of the dreaded C word. 🙏.

My Dad went through 37 bouts of radiotherapy, which was very tough on him and his wife Sarah. He rang the bell after the 37th and fingers crossed his next consultant meeting will confirm he is in remission too.

March the Month

Raised

£1,349

Target

£750

179.92533333333333% there

Achievements

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Updated story

First Donation

Raised £100

Raised £300

Raised £600

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