“New energy from the exploration”
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ALAN J.H. NEWBERRY NOVEMBER, 2005
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For the most recent updates to this story, or to post your comments, please visit my blog: aprostatejourney.blogspot.com
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FOREWORD
This story follows a chronological order from my own experience. It is written to assist others who have a prostate cancer diagnosis or for family members who care about them. All that follows is seen through my strong commitment to the value that the body can heal itself and one needs to examine alternatives to the wisdom of conventional medicine. This must be seen, then, as a viewpoint mixed with fact and description and not as a recommended prescription for others to follow. One of the significant learnings of my journey to date is that we are intelligent people with multiple resources to assist in making personal choices about our own health, including treatment for prostate cancer.
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ONE – THE ANNUAL MEDICAL CHECK UP.
On May 7, 2003 I presented myself at my family doctor’s clinic for an overall medical examination. The process will be familiar to all – a series of questions to be answered, a blood pressure test and the inevitable rectal digital examination.
The digital rectal exam was the time when the doctor said she felt a mass on the prostate, that it was probably benign but should be checked by an urologist to determine an accurate diagnosis.
It was only a couple of days before I had the call from the urologist’s office to report for a more detailed examination by a doctor who specializes in cancer of the prostate.
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TWO – THE UROLOGIST EXAMINATION.
As I prepared for my visit with the urologist on May 15, 2003, I was optimistic that all would be well. I felt myself to be in good health, and certainly was not experiencing any symptoms of a chronic disease.
The urologist reviewed with me my PSA result which was 4.4 and is considered normal for a person of my age. The acceptable range for individuals aged 60 to 69 years is up to 4.5. However when he did the rectal digital exam, he reported he felt an irregularity and stated that he would like a biopsy to confirm if there are cancer cells in the prostate gland. He explained to me how a biopsy would be conducted and what it would show. There was also a very brief discussion of the options for treatment of prostate cancer.
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THREE – BIOPSY AND THE VERDICT.
On May 22, 2003 I traveled to the hospital for the biopsy procedure. I was taken to a room where a technician explained the procedure to me and answered my questions. After signing a release form for the hospital, I was “prepared” for the biopsy. A specialist doctor entered the room and explained that he would extract small samples of cell tissue from my prostate using a biopsy “gun” which would reach the prostate gland through my rectum. This would be preceded by an ultra sound exploration to determine the size of the prostate and detect any tumours or polyps. Then came the extraction of the sample cells, a process that that was not painful, just a bit uncomfortable. The doctor told me the samples would be sent to a lab for analysis and I should hear in about two weeks of the results.
Two weeks passed and no word. I waited. Finally my family doctor phoned the urologist to find out where my test results were. They had been misplaced! But after my family doctor’s call, they were found. I was called for an appointment with the urologist who had done the initial examination and had recommended the biopsy.
Finally on July 16 (a long two weeks) I was in my urologist’s office and he told me there were cancer cells in my prostate. He discussed the lab report from the biopsy procedure with me. The biopsy report stated:
Sextant Prostate Core Biopsies showing:
A. Infiltrating prostatic adenocarcinoma (Gleason’s Grade 3+3=6/10) involving 7 mm. of a 15 mm. core biopsy from the right base, 4 mm. of a 10 mm. core biopsy from the left base, and a 1 mm. foci from the right apex, right mid, left apex, and left mid needle core biopsies.
B. Focal perineural invasion by carcinoma.
C. No vascular or lymphatic invasion by carcinoma.
D. Periprotatic tissue, where present, negative for malignancy.
The bottom line………. I had prostate cancer, albeit confined to the prostate gland and at an early stage with a Gleason score of 6.
A Gleason score of 5, 6 or 7 indicates medium grade and is defined,…… “Intermediate cancers may behave like low-grade or high-grade cancers. The cells’ behaviour may depend on the volume of the cancer and the PSA level. This is the most common grade of prostate cancer.”
The urologist discussed with me the options of surgery, radiation, hormone therapy and watchful observation. His recommendation was that since I was healthy and the cancer was confined to the prostate I should pursue aggressive treatment and the preferred choice was probably surgery. Watchful observation or complementary approaches were not really discussed. I knew already that I didn’t like the prescription. The urologist referred me to the Prostate Cancer Center at the Vancouver General Hospital for a more detailed exploration of the options, although the concept of options was not a strongly presented one. He also referred me to the regional Cancer Clinic for a second opinion which would focus on radiation as a conventional treatment.
I left the urologist’s office to return home to South Surrey determined to research treatments, alternatives, options and choices. This research was undertaken with extreme vigour using the public library, the internet, and talk with others. I quickly became knowledgeable about the processes of diagnosis, treatment and monitoring.
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FOUR –THE LOCAL PHARMACY AND ALTERNATIVE AID.
On July 17, 2003, one day after my diagnosis, I visited a local pharmacy that I knew to be knowledgeable about alternative supplements, and talked to an expert in nutri products . We reviewed my diagnosis and the he recommended that I take Multi-mune and IP-6. Here began my positive journey with an alternative to the brutal option of surgery or the potentially damaging hits of radiation. I purchased the products immediately, researched their reviews on the internet, and starting taking my first dosage the same evening.
IP-6 is a promising supplement that has been mainly tested with animals and has as its purpose the destruction of cancer cells. This supplement contains Inositol Hexaphosphate.
My vitamin/supplement program would expand in the days ahead.
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FIVE – THE PROSTATE CANCER CENTER.
Vancouver General Hospital is the location of this education center. In late July I met with a research nurse who explained to me the conventional options for the treatment of prostate cancer, and related those options to brief data she had been sent from the urologist that included my PSA, Gleason Score and, as it turned out, an incorrect Clinical Stage. I had hoped the Prostate Center would be able to help our family with a better understanding of alternative approaches. It was clear that was not a part of their mandate. At the Center I also completed a series of questionnaires that form part of the ongoing research at the Center.
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SIX – HEALING ANGELS AT FIRST UNITED CHURCH.
On July 19, 2003 I made an appointment to see the Parish Nurse at First United Church in White Rock. The nurse, Kathy, listened to my tale of diagnosis and desire to seek an alternative approach to conventional medicine. Two specific referrals came out of this discussion. First to undertake Healing Touch, a program that the same church offers with trained healing touch workers. Second to seek a treatment plan with The Center For Integrated Healing. This latter plan is the most significant of all the treatment decisions made to this date in my healing journey. I will discuss in detail the approach and impact of this unique healing place later in this paper.
As to Healing Touch, Mildred worked with me in my first session and advised me that she had me on her prayer list. She asked if she could do Healing Touch “at a distance” by laying me out in absentia on her living room table. Naturally I happily agreed. One night later I was at a public concert awaiting the opening act when suddenly I found myself in a state of deep relaxation. By checking times I learned that Mildred was doing the Healing Touch at a distance at the very time I experienced the relaxation state. This was not the final time this occurred under similar circumstances. The impact of Healing Touch and prayer entered my experience and became critically important processes as I continued my healing journey. I also became acutely aware of the human healing angels at our church and later became a part of the monthly Sunday night healing service.
My readings of Dr. Larry Dossey helped me to understand that the power of prayer and healing “at a distance” is real and powerful. Dr. Dossey is a medical doctor who has researched and written books about the “non-local mind” and the impact of prayer in healing. The spiritual component is an important if not essential part of healing. Seekers of spiritual healing should look up the writings of Larry Dossey.
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SEVEN – THE REGIONAL CANCER CLINIC.
It is now August 11, two months after I was given the diagnosis by the urologist. My wife and I go to the Cancer Clinic for a review and second opinion. We start by completing a series of questionnaires that probed our psycho-social situation. Then a social worker/nurse interviews us to determine our attitudes to the diagnosis and our preferred course of action. I advise that I am looking for support for an alternative approach to conventional treatment and preferably watchful observation.
This is followed by a medical doctor who conducts a relatively complete medical examination. Then I meet the radiation oncologist who conducts a rectal digital examination. We wait for a consultation in a private room with the oncologist, and medical doctor. We are told of the diagnosis opinion of this oncologist and shown charts and briefed on the conventional treatments. Aggressive treatment is recommended. I advise that I choose to go on watchful observation. In response to my questions, the oncologist says that I will not prejudice my mortality or morbidity by this decision. It is agreed that I will have another PSA immediately, and that the Clinic will reassess the original biopsy results. In the meantime I am scheduled for a six month follow up that will include a PSA test and another rectal digital examination.
I requested a copy of all my medical reports from the Cancer Clinic.
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EIGHT – PSA AND THE FAMILY DOCTOR.
The PSA test at the clinic produced a surprise……….my PSA dropped from 4.4 at diagnosis to 3.2 on August 11, 2003. In discussing this on August 12, 2003 with my family doctor, she reminded me that there are fluctuations in PSA readings and the important thing was the range. The PSA results would now become a “marker” for tumour growth.
In general terms, my family doctor supported the decision to go with watchful observation or systematic monitoring. She supported the notion that aggressive treatment and its side effects might not be necessary, but that we must commit to careful monitoring so that if there were significant changes in my condition (test results and or symptoms) further problem solving would be needed. I told my doctor that I was going to enroll in the introductory program for the Center for Integrated Healing.
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NINE – THE UROLOGIST INTERVENES.
The urologist who ordered the original biopsy received a copy of the report from the radiation oncologist at the Cancer Clinic and noted that I had elected to deny conventional treatment and follow a course of watchful observation. He was concerned. He did not agree with my decision. He phoned my family doctor who phoned me to urge that I pursue another opinion. This was a stressful event, having after careful deliberation and consideration of all the information at my disposal, determined to follow a specific course and follow it with optimism and discipline. I understand the intent of my family doctor in being put between the patient and a specialist. I mention this story here to state again the lack of support of individual choice and alternative approaches by the urologist.
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TEN – THE CENTER FOR INTEGRATED HEALING INTRODUCTION.
The Parish Nurse at First United Church in White Rock had told me about the Center for Integrated Healing. I found that in order to participate with the medical doctors of the Center it was necessary to participate in a two day introductory program. So, in September of 2003, my wife and I happily attended the Center on West 8th Avenue in Vancouver not really sure what to expect. And what a wonderful experience it was! Our eyes were opened to new knowledge, our hearts were opened to new approaches, and our resources were remarkably strengthened by meeting the staff of the Center and learning of its work. At this introductory program , the journey of my healing reached a dramatic and positive landmark. Here was a place that specialized in cancer issues, blended conventional, complementary and alternative treatment approaches, and honoured patient choice!
In addition to conventional approaches, the session dealt with immune enhancement, prayer, healthful diet, vitamins and supplements, exercise, stress reduction, avoidance of toxins, meditation and emotional support.
The twelve hours of instruction over two days encompassed:
Introduction to the Center’s philosophy, programs, and the foundations of healing.
Healthful nutrition seminar.
Introduction to Visualization.
Introduction to Meditation.
Mind/Body awareness.
Decision Making Discussion.
Group sharing.
Presentation and discussion with healing practitioners.
………..and a healthy lunch.
We learned that the Center for Integrated Healing consisted of medical doctors, researchers, massage practitioners, doctors of Chinese Medicine, a holistic nutrition consultant, holistic counselors , a naturopathic physician, and an integrative body worker.
What a great discovery!!!!!!!!
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ELEVEN – FIRST VISIT TO THE CENTER’S MEDICAL DOCTOR.
September 8, 2003 arrived and it was time to visit Anita, the medical doctor I had been assigned to at the Center for Integrated Healing. This thirty minute session was the first of two meetings. The purpose of this one was to review eating patterns and decide on the vitamin/supplement prescription. The recommendations she made constitute in the main my regimen today. I learned about Finlandia Pharmacy on Broadway in Vancouver as a source for all natural products, both those that go in the mouth and a range of other organic non-toxic products like shampoo and shaving cream. This was really the beginning of the fundamental and dramatic global change program in our home and for our family lifestyle. Anita reminded us of the basic belief of the Center that the body has the capacity to heal itself, but that we need to facilitate that process by careful attention to exercise, nutrition, spiritual development, relationships and overall lifestyle issues. This resulted in a very positive “change” program, not a burden to be suffered to accommodate a cancer diagnosis!
The specific recommendations that resulted from this initial consultation were:
Eliminate dairy products.
Use soya 3 to 5 servings a week.
IP-6 daily.
Integration 1 and 2 daily.
Lycopene @ 30mg a day.
Ground flaxseed @ 2 tablespoons a day.
CoQ10 @ 60 mg @ 3 per day for one month.
Floressence Tea @ 2 oz. twice a day.
The Integration 1 and 2 is a supplement researched and ordered by the Center and assembled for sale at Finlandia Pharmacy. The Integration 1 contains:Ester-C Ca Ascorbate, Selenomethionine, Glutathione, and Zinc Citrate.
Integration 2 contains: Beta-carotene, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, CoQ-10, and Vitamin D3.
I love good wine and was used to drinking a glass with each evening meal. On Anita’s advice I decided to reduce this pattern to part of a glass every other day. (This was later reduced further).
As a result of this consultation at the Center, I was ready to begin a regimen of vitamins and supplements to enhance my immune system.
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TWELVE – HOLISTIC APPROACH TO HEALING AT THE CENTER.
On October 24, 2003, I attended the Center for Integrated Healing for another follow-up meeting with Anita, our medical doctor. This was a 1 ½ hour session to review my socio-emotional history and to discuss nutrition issues.
We discussed weight, diet, leisure activities, medication history, dental x rays, PSA results, decision-making, family history, physical activity, religious belief, blood pressure, childhood, alternative approaches to treatment. Anita defined her role and the role of the Center in monitoring my progress.
The main benefits of this consultation were education about the context of cancer, what to monitor, potential treatments, and probably most important of all, guidelines for nutrition.
The Center provides the following guidelines for persons with cancer….these became our recipe for food planning in a very disciplined way:
Eat fresh, wholesome, unrefined natural foods.
Eat whole grain foods.
Eat at least four to six servings of fresh fruit and vegetables each day.
Completely avoid refined sugar.
No dairy products.
Avoid high fat diet, especially a diet high in animal fats.
Red meat consumption should be minimized.
The occasional; consumption of poultry from a reliable source.
Avoid all processed meats.
Deep sea fish are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Extra virgin olive oil and hemp oil are recommended.
Do not use margarine.
Completely avoid coffee, pop and sweetened juices.
Drink green tea.
Experiment with herbal teas.
Buy organic food.
Look for pesticides in animal products.
Eat a variety of foods for balanced nutrition.
Gently cook foods.
Avoid fried foods.
Does all of this sound boring and limiting. Not at all……….it was the start of many discoveries and wonderful eating. We chose to buy as much organic food as possible……..good but expensive!
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THIRTEEN – THE FIRST 6 MONTH CHECKUP AT THE CANCER CLINIC.
As agreed I returned to the regional Cancer Clinic for my six month check on January 26, 2004. The radiation oncologist advised that my PSA was now 3.48 and my testosterone reading 9.9 ( normal range is 5.5 to 20.0). He conducted a rectal digital examination and advised that the tumour was stable.
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FOURTEEN – THE INTEGRATED APPROACH REVIEW AT THE CENTER.
This consultation with Anita, my medical doctor at the Center was scheduled for about an hour on the day after the review on January 27, 2004 at the Cancer Clinic - a review which took less than five minutes. We reviewed a number of issues including a spreadsheet which I had completed for the previous week which laid out all food and supplements I had taken at each meal and at other times of the day.
The issues reviewed centered around sleep times (better to get to bed closer to 10PM), breakfasts, wine consumption, variety of foods, smoothies and fruit juices, weight loss, meditation, Greens Rx, IP-6, PSA. Generally Anita was pleased with our radically changed food choices, and so were we!
The doctor also told us her good news that she expected to be leaving the Center on maternity leave in late April. She suggested another PSA test for April which she would review before her leave.
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FIFTEEN – REVIEWING PROGRESS AT THE CENTER.
On April 1, 2004 I had another PSA test and the result was 3.6. I corresponded with Anita by email to see if she had any concerns as it had risen from 3.48. She replied that it was a small rise, still well below the initial reading of 4.4 and well within the normal range particularly for someone who has not taken any conventional treatment. Continuing good news on my journey!
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SIXTEEN – THE ONE YEAR REVIEW AT THE CANCER CLINIC.
This visit to the Cancer Clinic on July 6, 2004 represents one year since my first visit to this clinic. I saw a nurse who asked me a few brief questions and then the radiation oncologist. This was a very brief meeting (my wife timed it at 2 minutes and 7 seconds). He had my new PSA results and testosterone readings. The PSA was 4.17, and the testosterone was 9.9. He conducted a rectal digital examination and reported that the tumours are “no larger.” He said he was not worried about spread of the cancer at this level of PSA result. I scheduled my next appointment at the Clinic for six months from July.
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SEVENTEEN – A NEW DOCTOR AT THE CENTER.
On July 7, 2004 the day after our visit to the Cancer Clinic, I went for a 30 minute consultation at the Center for Integrated Healing. I met my new medical doctor, Janice. Once again I had the opportunity to discuss in an unhurried atmosphere my progress and our concerns. Janice said that the PSA increase was not of concern, but only after we had a lengthy discussion of this matter.
We also discussed how I felt ( a question only the Center seems to ask). These visits to the Center for Integrated Healing are always so satisfactory. Truly a cooperative pursuit of good health….doctor and patient!
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EIGHTEEN – RESEARCH PARTICIPATION AND STUDIES.
Because I am a male with diagnosed prostate cancer who has refused conventional treatment and chosen alternative treatments, I am the subject currently of two research studies, one at UBC and one at the University of Calgary. These studies are studying decision making processes with men who decline conventional treatment.
One of the studies has published some initial findings.
Study participants initiated an intensive search for information on conventional and complementary therapies (CAM) at diagnosis. Over time, they engaged in an on-going process of searching and evaluating evidence to answer their questions about treatment side-effects and survival outcomes. They were concerned that conventional treatments:
Do not address the underlying causes of cancer.
Damage the prostate, causing cancer cells to spread (surgery, biopsy).
Cause the cancer to recur (radiation therapy).
Weaken the immune system.
Damage internal organs, making recovery difficult (radiation therapy).
(“The Role of Evidence in Decision-making by Men with Prostate Cancer who Decline Conventional Treatment”. Margaret White, Research Consultant , Vancouver, B.C. ,and Marja Verhoef , Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta).
I enjoy participating in these research studies in the hope that more complete information will be available to men so that they can make their own decisions regarding their personal health and destiny.
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NINETEEN – HEALING ANGELS.
This section could be very lengthy, but I will restrict it to a quick statement of the healing modalities I am currently undertaking. The next section of this paper presents the many changes we have made in our lives.
My wife, Janet, ensures that our food diet is consistent with the principles discussed earlier.
My children are a source of love, hope and energy.
Buddy, my cat, reduces my blood pressure.
In addition to the support of a host of healing angels I do meditation, daily exercise, prayer, reading, and listen to great music and walk a lot. Ingela is my healer at the Center who provides healing touch/massage and much wisdom!
Our family garden is a source of relaxation and joy, both as a place to work and a place to feel the intense beauty of nature.
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TWENTY – CHANGES I HAVE MADE.
In order to support my immune system, and keep me away from pesticides, preservatives and other toxic substances, and kill cancer cells, we have radically altered our lifestyle, without giving up what is really important and, indeed, adding new discoveries of taste and matter. This is not a prescription for all, but simply a statement of what we have done in our family.
Our plan:
Filtered drinking water.
No fast food.
Reduction in wine drinking.
No dairy products.
Increase in vegetables and fruits.
Little or no beef.
Use of non-dairy milks.
No hydrogenated oils in foods.
Fish to eat more frequently.
Organic foods where possible.
Avoidance of salt and sugars.
Use of sea salt/ seaweed.
Organic non-dairy breads.
Use of almond and pumpkin butters.
No alcohol, but wine.
Flax seed daily.
Flor essence tea in 3 month cycles.
No coffee.
Green tea.
Fireplace conversion to gas from wood.
Epsom salt baths.
To bed earlier.
No chemical fertilizers on lawn or garden.
Organic deodorants, soaps, shaving cream and shampoo.
Organic toothpaste.
Ester C Ca Ascorbate
Selenomethionine
Zinc Citrate
Beta-carotene
Vitamin E
Co Q-10
Vitamin D3
Lycopene
IP-6
Green tea extract
Green RX
Salmon oil
Olive oil
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TWENTY- ONE – AN EDITORIAL COMMENTARY.
Prostate cancer: one positive journey? Yes , because I have focussed on good diet, exercise, and generally supporting my immune system, my spiritual journey and my relationships with people. Love really does make the world go round! I feel great and my tests continue to reinforce that I am on the right track. If that should change I will consider all the options, but for now, and I expect forever, the natural approach is the one and preferred modality of healing. I believe daily in the major principle that the body will heal itself if supported by disciplined and sane resources.
More later…as time passes.
Gabor Mate in his book, “When the Body Says No” (2003), says at Page 239:
“Whichever modality of treatment people choose – conventional medicine with or without complementary healing; alternative approaches like energy medicine or various mind – body techniques; ancient Eastern practices like Ayurvedic medicine or yoga or Chinese acupuncture; the universal practice of meditation techniques; psychotherapy; nutritional healing – the key to healing is the individual’s active, free and informed choice.”
This is what I am doing – engaging in an active and informed choice!
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POSTSCRIPT.
May 2005:
My latest visit to the cancer clinic is encouraging. Digital Rectal Examination shows "stability". PSA has moved around a bit but today is lower than at time of diagnosis and slightly lower than my last test in December, 2004.
I have added Curcumin and Bromelain to my daily regimen. They act as anti-inflammatories. I have abandoned Floressence tea at the advice of my doctor at the Center for Integrated Healing. I am also taking a salmon oil capsule on the days we don't have fish with our meals. I have not had any conventional treatments and will continue watchful observation.
November 2005:
PSA results and DRE reveal that all is "stable." The plan is working!
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SOME INTERNET REFERENCES I FOUND USEFUL.
http://www.canadian-health-network.ca/
http://www.drweil.com/
http://www.healing.bc.ca/
http://www.mayoclinic.com/
http://www.prostatecancer.ca/
http://www.prostate-cancer-institute.com/
http://www.prostatepointers.org/
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Alan J.H. Newberry alan@prostatejourney.com November, 2005.
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For the most recent updates to this story, or to post your comments, please visit my blog: aprostatejourney.blogspot.com
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If you have found this story helpful, please consider making a donation to support my daughter Christina's fundraising efforts for the Weekend to End Breast Cancer. You can donate online by clicking here.
Christina McLean
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ALAN J.H. NEWBERRY NOVEMBER, 2005
.
For the most recent updates to this story, or to post your comments, please visit my blog: aprostatejourney.blogspot.com
.
FOREWORD
This story follows a chronological order from my own experience. It is written to assist others who have a prostate cancer diagnosis or for family members who care about them. All that follows is seen through my strong commitment to the value that the body can heal itself and one needs to examine alternatives to the wisdom of conventional medicine. This must be seen, then, as a viewpoint mixed with fact and description and not as a recommended prescription for others to follow. One of the significant learnings of my journey to date is that we are intelligent people with multiple resources to assist in making personal choices about our own health, including treatment for prostate cancer.
.
ONE – THE ANNUAL MEDICAL CHECK UP.
On May 7, 2003 I presented myself at my family doctor’s clinic for an overall medical examination. The process will be familiar to all – a series of questions to be answered, a blood pressure test and the inevitable rectal digital examination.
The digital rectal exam was the time when the doctor said she felt a mass on the prostate, that it was probably benign but should be checked by an urologist to determine an accurate diagnosis.
It was only a couple of days before I had the call from the urologist’s office to report for a more detailed examination by a doctor who specializes in cancer of the prostate.
.
TWO – THE UROLOGIST EXAMINATION.
As I prepared for my visit with the urologist on May 15, 2003, I was optimistic that all would be well. I felt myself to be in good health, and certainly was not experiencing any symptoms of a chronic disease.
The urologist reviewed with me my PSA result which was 4.4 and is considered normal for a person of my age. The acceptable range for individuals aged 60 to 69 years is up to 4.5. However when he did the rectal digital exam, he reported he felt an irregularity and stated that he would like a biopsy to confirm if there are cancer cells in the prostate gland. He explained to me how a biopsy would be conducted and what it would show. There was also a very brief discussion of the options for treatment of prostate cancer.
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THREE – BIOPSY AND THE VERDICT.
On May 22, 2003 I traveled to the hospital for the biopsy procedure. I was taken to a room where a technician explained the procedure to me and answered my questions. After signing a release form for the hospital, I was “prepared” for the biopsy. A specialist doctor entered the room and explained that he would extract small samples of cell tissue from my prostate using a biopsy “gun” which would reach the prostate gland through my rectum. This would be preceded by an ultra sound exploration to determine the size of the prostate and detect any tumours or polyps. Then came the extraction of the sample cells, a process that that was not painful, just a bit uncomfortable. The doctor told me the samples would be sent to a lab for analysis and I should hear in about two weeks of the results.
Two weeks passed and no word. I waited. Finally my family doctor phoned the urologist to find out where my test results were. They had been misplaced! But after my family doctor’s call, they were found. I was called for an appointment with the urologist who had done the initial examination and had recommended the biopsy.
Finally on July 16 (a long two weeks) I was in my urologist’s office and he told me there were cancer cells in my prostate. He discussed the lab report from the biopsy procedure with me. The biopsy report stated:
Sextant Prostate Core Biopsies showing:
A. Infiltrating prostatic adenocarcinoma (Gleason’s Grade 3+3=6/10) involving 7 mm. of a 15 mm. core biopsy from the right base, 4 mm. of a 10 mm. core biopsy from the left base, and a 1 mm. foci from the right apex, right mid, left apex, and left mid needle core biopsies.
B. Focal perineural invasion by carcinoma.
C. No vascular or lymphatic invasion by carcinoma.
D. Periprotatic tissue, where present, negative for malignancy.
The bottom line………. I had prostate cancer, albeit confined to the prostate gland and at an early stage with a Gleason score of 6.
A Gleason score of 5, 6 or 7 indicates medium grade and is defined,…… “Intermediate cancers may behave like low-grade or high-grade cancers. The cells’ behaviour may depend on the volume of the cancer and the PSA level. This is the most common grade of prostate cancer.”
The urologist discussed with me the options of surgery, radiation, hormone therapy and watchful observation. His recommendation was that since I was healthy and the cancer was confined to the prostate I should pursue aggressive treatment and the preferred choice was probably surgery. Watchful observation or complementary approaches were not really discussed. I knew already that I didn’t like the prescription. The urologist referred me to the Prostate Cancer Center at the Vancouver General Hospital for a more detailed exploration of the options, although the concept of options was not a strongly presented one. He also referred me to the regional Cancer Clinic for a second opinion which would focus on radiation as a conventional treatment.
I left the urologist’s office to return home to South Surrey determined to research treatments, alternatives, options and choices. This research was undertaken with extreme vigour using the public library, the internet, and talk with others. I quickly became knowledgeable about the processes of diagnosis, treatment and monitoring.
.
FOUR –THE LOCAL PHARMACY AND ALTERNATIVE AID.
On July 17, 2003, one day after my diagnosis, I visited a local pharmacy that I knew to be knowledgeable about alternative supplements, and talked to an expert in nutri products . We reviewed my diagnosis and the he recommended that I take Multi-mune and IP-6. Here began my positive journey with an alternative to the brutal option of surgery or the potentially damaging hits of radiation. I purchased the products immediately, researched their reviews on the internet, and starting taking my first dosage the same evening.
IP-6 is a promising supplement that has been mainly tested with animals and has as its purpose the destruction of cancer cells. This supplement contains Inositol Hexaphosphate.
My vitamin/supplement program would expand in the days ahead.
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FIVE – THE PROSTATE CANCER CENTER.
Vancouver General Hospital is the location of this education center. In late July I met with a research nurse who explained to me the conventional options for the treatment of prostate cancer, and related those options to brief data she had been sent from the urologist that included my PSA, Gleason Score and, as it turned out, an incorrect Clinical Stage. I had hoped the Prostate Center would be able to help our family with a better understanding of alternative approaches. It was clear that was not a part of their mandate. At the Center I also completed a series of questionnaires that form part of the ongoing research at the Center.
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SIX – HEALING ANGELS AT FIRST UNITED CHURCH.
On July 19, 2003 I made an appointment to see the Parish Nurse at First United Church in White Rock. The nurse, Kathy, listened to my tale of diagnosis and desire to seek an alternative approach to conventional medicine. Two specific referrals came out of this discussion. First to undertake Healing Touch, a program that the same church offers with trained healing touch workers. Second to seek a treatment plan with The Center For Integrated Healing. This latter plan is the most significant of all the treatment decisions made to this date in my healing journey. I will discuss in detail the approach and impact of this unique healing place later in this paper.
As to Healing Touch, Mildred worked with me in my first session and advised me that she had me on her prayer list. She asked if she could do Healing Touch “at a distance” by laying me out in absentia on her living room table. Naturally I happily agreed. One night later I was at a public concert awaiting the opening act when suddenly I found myself in a state of deep relaxation. By checking times I learned that Mildred was doing the Healing Touch at a distance at the very time I experienced the relaxation state. This was not the final time this occurred under similar circumstances. The impact of Healing Touch and prayer entered my experience and became critically important processes as I continued my healing journey. I also became acutely aware of the human healing angels at our church and later became a part of the monthly Sunday night healing service.
My readings of Dr. Larry Dossey helped me to understand that the power of prayer and healing “at a distance” is real and powerful. Dr. Dossey is a medical doctor who has researched and written books about the “non-local mind” and the impact of prayer in healing. The spiritual component is an important if not essential part of healing. Seekers of spiritual healing should look up the writings of Larry Dossey.
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SEVEN – THE REGIONAL CANCER CLINIC.
It is now August 11, two months after I was given the diagnosis by the urologist. My wife and I go to the Cancer Clinic for a review and second opinion. We start by completing a series of questionnaires that probed our psycho-social situation. Then a social worker/nurse interviews us to determine our attitudes to the diagnosis and our preferred course of action. I advise that I am looking for support for an alternative approach to conventional treatment and preferably watchful observation.
This is followed by a medical doctor who conducts a relatively complete medical examination. Then I meet the radiation oncologist who conducts a rectal digital examination. We wait for a consultation in a private room with the oncologist, and medical doctor. We are told of the diagnosis opinion of this oncologist and shown charts and briefed on the conventional treatments. Aggressive treatment is recommended. I advise that I choose to go on watchful observation. In response to my questions, the oncologist says that I will not prejudice my mortality or morbidity by this decision. It is agreed that I will have another PSA immediately, and that the Clinic will reassess the original biopsy results. In the meantime I am scheduled for a six month follow up that will include a PSA test and another rectal digital examination.
I requested a copy of all my medical reports from the Cancer Clinic.
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EIGHT – PSA AND THE FAMILY DOCTOR.
The PSA test at the clinic produced a surprise……….my PSA dropped from 4.4 at diagnosis to 3.2 on August 11, 2003. In discussing this on August 12, 2003 with my family doctor, she reminded me that there are fluctuations in PSA readings and the important thing was the range. The PSA results would now become a “marker” for tumour growth.
In general terms, my family doctor supported the decision to go with watchful observation or systematic monitoring. She supported the notion that aggressive treatment and its side effects might not be necessary, but that we must commit to careful monitoring so that if there were significant changes in my condition (test results and or symptoms) further problem solving would be needed. I told my doctor that I was going to enroll in the introductory program for the Center for Integrated Healing.
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NINE – THE UROLOGIST INTERVENES.
The urologist who ordered the original biopsy received a copy of the report from the radiation oncologist at the Cancer Clinic and noted that I had elected to deny conventional treatment and follow a course of watchful observation. He was concerned. He did not agree with my decision. He phoned my family doctor who phoned me to urge that I pursue another opinion. This was a stressful event, having after careful deliberation and consideration of all the information at my disposal, determined to follow a specific course and follow it with optimism and discipline. I understand the intent of my family doctor in being put between the patient and a specialist. I mention this story here to state again the lack of support of individual choice and alternative approaches by the urologist.
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TEN – THE CENTER FOR INTEGRATED HEALING INTRODUCTION.
The Parish Nurse at First United Church in White Rock had told me about the Center for Integrated Healing. I found that in order to participate with the medical doctors of the Center it was necessary to participate in a two day introductory program. So, in September of 2003, my wife and I happily attended the Center on West 8th Avenue in Vancouver not really sure what to expect. And what a wonderful experience it was! Our eyes were opened to new knowledge, our hearts were opened to new approaches, and our resources were remarkably strengthened by meeting the staff of the Center and learning of its work. At this introductory program , the journey of my healing reached a dramatic and positive landmark. Here was a place that specialized in cancer issues, blended conventional, complementary and alternative treatment approaches, and honoured patient choice!
In addition to conventional approaches, the session dealt with immune enhancement, prayer, healthful diet, vitamins and supplements, exercise, stress reduction, avoidance of toxins, meditation and emotional support.
The twelve hours of instruction over two days encompassed:
Introduction to the Center’s philosophy, programs, and the foundations of healing.
Healthful nutrition seminar.
Introduction to Visualization.
Introduction to Meditation.
Mind/Body awareness.
Decision Making Discussion.
Group sharing.
Presentation and discussion with healing practitioners.
………..and a healthy lunch.
We learned that the Center for Integrated Healing consisted of medical doctors, researchers, massage practitioners, doctors of Chinese Medicine, a holistic nutrition consultant, holistic counselors , a naturopathic physician, and an integrative body worker.
What a great discovery!!!!!!!!
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ELEVEN – FIRST VISIT TO THE CENTER’S MEDICAL DOCTOR.
September 8, 2003 arrived and it was time to visit Anita, the medical doctor I had been assigned to at the Center for Integrated Healing. This thirty minute session was the first of two meetings. The purpose of this one was to review eating patterns and decide on the vitamin/supplement prescription. The recommendations she made constitute in the main my regimen today. I learned about Finlandia Pharmacy on Broadway in Vancouver as a source for all natural products, both those that go in the mouth and a range of other organic non-toxic products like shampoo and shaving cream. This was really the beginning of the fundamental and dramatic global change program in our home and for our family lifestyle. Anita reminded us of the basic belief of the Center that the body has the capacity to heal itself, but that we need to facilitate that process by careful attention to exercise, nutrition, spiritual development, relationships and overall lifestyle issues. This resulted in a very positive “change” program, not a burden to be suffered to accommodate a cancer diagnosis!
The specific recommendations that resulted from this initial consultation were:
Eliminate dairy products.
Use soya 3 to 5 servings a week.
IP-6 daily.
Integration 1 and 2 daily.
Lycopene @ 30mg a day.
Ground flaxseed @ 2 tablespoons a day.
CoQ10 @ 60 mg @ 3 per day for one month.
Floressence Tea @ 2 oz. twice a day.
The Integration 1 and 2 is a supplement researched and ordered by the Center and assembled for sale at Finlandia Pharmacy. The Integration 1 contains:Ester-C Ca Ascorbate, Selenomethionine, Glutathione, and Zinc Citrate.
Integration 2 contains: Beta-carotene, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, CoQ-10, and Vitamin D3.
I love good wine and was used to drinking a glass with each evening meal. On Anita’s advice I decided to reduce this pattern to part of a glass every other day. (This was later reduced further).
As a result of this consultation at the Center, I was ready to begin a regimen of vitamins and supplements to enhance my immune system.
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TWELVE – HOLISTIC APPROACH TO HEALING AT THE CENTER.
On October 24, 2003, I attended the Center for Integrated Healing for another follow-up meeting with Anita, our medical doctor. This was a 1 ½ hour session to review my socio-emotional history and to discuss nutrition issues.
We discussed weight, diet, leisure activities, medication history, dental x rays, PSA results, decision-making, family history, physical activity, religious belief, blood pressure, childhood, alternative approaches to treatment. Anita defined her role and the role of the Center in monitoring my progress.
The main benefits of this consultation were education about the context of cancer, what to monitor, potential treatments, and probably most important of all, guidelines for nutrition.
The Center provides the following guidelines for persons with cancer….these became our recipe for food planning in a very disciplined way:
Eat fresh, wholesome, unrefined natural foods.
Eat whole grain foods.
Eat at least four to six servings of fresh fruit and vegetables each day.
Completely avoid refined sugar.
No dairy products.
Avoid high fat diet, especially a diet high in animal fats.
Red meat consumption should be minimized.
The occasional; consumption of poultry from a reliable source.
Avoid all processed meats.
Deep sea fish are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Extra virgin olive oil and hemp oil are recommended.
Do not use margarine.
Completely avoid coffee, pop and sweetened juices.
Drink green tea.
Experiment with herbal teas.
Buy organic food.
Look for pesticides in animal products.
Eat a variety of foods for balanced nutrition.
Gently cook foods.
Avoid fried foods.
Does all of this sound boring and limiting. Not at all……….it was the start of many discoveries and wonderful eating. We chose to buy as much organic food as possible……..good but expensive!
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THIRTEEN – THE FIRST 6 MONTH CHECKUP AT THE CANCER CLINIC.
As agreed I returned to the regional Cancer Clinic for my six month check on January 26, 2004. The radiation oncologist advised that my PSA was now 3.48 and my testosterone reading 9.9 ( normal range is 5.5 to 20.0). He conducted a rectal digital examination and advised that the tumour was stable.
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FOURTEEN – THE INTEGRATED APPROACH REVIEW AT THE CENTER.
This consultation with Anita, my medical doctor at the Center was scheduled for about an hour on the day after the review on January 27, 2004 at the Cancer Clinic - a review which took less than five minutes. We reviewed a number of issues including a spreadsheet which I had completed for the previous week which laid out all food and supplements I had taken at each meal and at other times of the day.
The issues reviewed centered around sleep times (better to get to bed closer to 10PM), breakfasts, wine consumption, variety of foods, smoothies and fruit juices, weight loss, meditation, Greens Rx, IP-6, PSA. Generally Anita was pleased with our radically changed food choices, and so were we!
The doctor also told us her good news that she expected to be leaving the Center on maternity leave in late April. She suggested another PSA test for April which she would review before her leave.
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FIFTEEN – REVIEWING PROGRESS AT THE CENTER.
On April 1, 2004 I had another PSA test and the result was 3.6. I corresponded with Anita by email to see if she had any concerns as it had risen from 3.48. She replied that it was a small rise, still well below the initial reading of 4.4 and well within the normal range particularly for someone who has not taken any conventional treatment. Continuing good news on my journey!
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SIXTEEN – THE ONE YEAR REVIEW AT THE CANCER CLINIC.
This visit to the Cancer Clinic on July 6, 2004 represents one year since my first visit to this clinic. I saw a nurse who asked me a few brief questions and then the radiation oncologist. This was a very brief meeting (my wife timed it at 2 minutes and 7 seconds). He had my new PSA results and testosterone readings. The PSA was 4.17, and the testosterone was 9.9. He conducted a rectal digital examination and reported that the tumours are “no larger.” He said he was not worried about spread of the cancer at this level of PSA result. I scheduled my next appointment at the Clinic for six months from July.
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SEVENTEEN – A NEW DOCTOR AT THE CENTER.
On July 7, 2004 the day after our visit to the Cancer Clinic, I went for a 30 minute consultation at the Center for Integrated Healing. I met my new medical doctor, Janice. Once again I had the opportunity to discuss in an unhurried atmosphere my progress and our concerns. Janice said that the PSA increase was not of concern, but only after we had a lengthy discussion of this matter.
We also discussed how I felt ( a question only the Center seems to ask). These visits to the Center for Integrated Healing are always so satisfactory. Truly a cooperative pursuit of good health….doctor and patient!
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EIGHTEEN – RESEARCH PARTICIPATION AND STUDIES.
Because I am a male with diagnosed prostate cancer who has refused conventional treatment and chosen alternative treatments, I am the subject currently of two research studies, one at UBC and one at the University of Calgary. These studies are studying decision making processes with men who decline conventional treatment.
One of the studies has published some initial findings.
Study participants initiated an intensive search for information on conventional and complementary therapies (CAM) at diagnosis. Over time, they engaged in an on-going process of searching and evaluating evidence to answer their questions about treatment side-effects and survival outcomes. They were concerned that conventional treatments:
Do not address the underlying causes of cancer.
Damage the prostate, causing cancer cells to spread (surgery, biopsy).
Cause the cancer to recur (radiation therapy).
Weaken the immune system.
Damage internal organs, making recovery difficult (radiation therapy).
(“The Role of Evidence in Decision-making by Men with Prostate Cancer who Decline Conventional Treatment”. Margaret White, Research Consultant , Vancouver, B.C. ,and Marja Verhoef , Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta).
I enjoy participating in these research studies in the hope that more complete information will be available to men so that they can make their own decisions regarding their personal health and destiny.
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NINETEEN – HEALING ANGELS.
This section could be very lengthy, but I will restrict it to a quick statement of the healing modalities I am currently undertaking. The next section of this paper presents the many changes we have made in our lives.
My wife, Janet, ensures that our food diet is consistent with the principles discussed earlier.
My children are a source of love, hope and energy.
Buddy, my cat, reduces my blood pressure.
In addition to the support of a host of healing angels I do meditation, daily exercise, prayer, reading, and listen to great music and walk a lot. Ingela is my healer at the Center who provides healing touch/massage and much wisdom!
Our family garden is a source of relaxation and joy, both as a place to work and a place to feel the intense beauty of nature.
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TWENTY – CHANGES I HAVE MADE.
In order to support my immune system, and keep me away from pesticides, preservatives and other toxic substances, and kill cancer cells, we have radically altered our lifestyle, without giving up what is really important and, indeed, adding new discoveries of taste and matter. This is not a prescription for all, but simply a statement of what we have done in our family.
Our plan:
Filtered drinking water.
No fast food.
Reduction in wine drinking.
No dairy products.
Increase in vegetables and fruits.
Little or no beef.
Use of non-dairy milks.
No hydrogenated oils in foods.
Fish to eat more frequently.
Organic foods where possible.
Avoidance of salt and sugars.
Use of sea salt/ seaweed.
Organic non-dairy breads.
Use of almond and pumpkin butters.
No alcohol, but wine.
Flax seed daily.
Flor essence tea in 3 month cycles.
No coffee.
Green tea.
Fireplace conversion to gas from wood.
Epsom salt baths.
To bed earlier.
No chemical fertilizers on lawn or garden.
Organic deodorants, soaps, shaving cream and shampoo.
Organic toothpaste.
Ester C Ca Ascorbate
Selenomethionine
Zinc Citrate
Beta-carotene
Vitamin E
Co Q-10
Vitamin D3
Lycopene
IP-6
Green tea extract
Green RX
Salmon oil
Olive oil
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TWENTY- ONE – AN EDITORIAL COMMENTARY.
Prostate cancer: one positive journey? Yes , because I have focussed on good diet, exercise, and generally supporting my immune system, my spiritual journey and my relationships with people. Love really does make the world go round! I feel great and my tests continue to reinforce that I am on the right track. If that should change I will consider all the options, but for now, and I expect forever, the natural approach is the one and preferred modality of healing. I believe daily in the major principle that the body will heal itself if supported by disciplined and sane resources.
More later…as time passes.
Gabor Mate in his book, “When the Body Says No” (2003), says at Page 239:
“Whichever modality of treatment people choose – conventional medicine with or without complementary healing; alternative approaches like energy medicine or various mind – body techniques; ancient Eastern practices like Ayurvedic medicine or yoga or Chinese acupuncture; the universal practice of meditation techniques; psychotherapy; nutritional healing – the key to healing is the individual’s active, free and informed choice.”
This is what I am doing – engaging in an active and informed choice!
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POSTSCRIPT.
May 2005:
My latest visit to the cancer clinic is encouraging. Digital Rectal Examination shows "stability". PSA has moved around a bit but today is lower than at time of diagnosis and slightly lower than my last test in December, 2004.
I have added Curcumin and Bromelain to my daily regimen. They act as anti-inflammatories. I have abandoned Floressence tea at the advice of my doctor at the Center for Integrated Healing. I am also taking a salmon oil capsule on the days we don't have fish with our meals. I have not had any conventional treatments and will continue watchful observation.
November 2005:
PSA results and DRE reveal that all is "stable." The plan is working!
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SOME INTERNET REFERENCES I FOUND USEFUL.
http://www.canadian-health-network.ca/
http://www.drweil.com/
http://www.healing.bc.ca/
http://www.mayoclinic.com/
http://www.prostatecancer.ca/
http://www.prostate-cancer-institute.com/
http://www.prostatepointers.org/
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Alan J.H. Newberry alan@prostatejourney.com November, 2005.
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For the most recent updates to this story, or to post your comments, please visit my blog: aprostatejourney.blogspot.com
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If you have found this story helpful, please consider making a donation to support my daughter Christina's fundraising efforts for the Weekend to End Breast Cancer. You can donate online by clicking here.
Christina McLean
posted by Alan J.H. Newberry at
4:50 p.m.
