By Matthew Sims
Williamstown resident John Ryan has raised more than $7000 for research and support for those suffering or recovering from prostate cancer.
What he thought was a basic check-up at his GP in early 2020 changed his life forever.
Mr Ryan said he was “shocked” by the diagnosis.
“It was a Friday afternoon and I had gone to the appointment without my wife or family,” he said.
“Afterwards, I decided to go down to the local pub, which is something I don’t normally do, and I just looked out over the water, trying to take in the diagnosis.”
Despite being put on medication, Mr Ryan’s prostate-specific antigen [PSA] levels continued to increase.
A further biopsy discovered three tumors, including one which was 13 millimetres long.
Mr Ryan underwent an aggressive prostatectomy and spent five days in intensive care.
He said with the recovery was “definitely not easy”.
“It’s not a manly experience,” Mr Ryan said.
He said having to adjust to having to wear a catheter and having incontinence issues was a mental strain.
Mr Ryan has started his participation in the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia’s [PCFA] Long Run challenge, which encourages people to run during September for prostate cancer research and support efforts.
At the time of publication, he has raised $7685 and ran 24 kilometres towards his goal of 100 kilometres.
Mr Ryan said he hoped his journey could inspire other men to check their prostate frequently.
“Don’t be a man about it,” he said.
“The earlier that it can get detected, the better.
“It’s now just as simple as a blood test.”
Mr Ryan said the PCFA’s support for those diagnosed was invaluable.
“You just have a plethora of support,” he said.
“I have been blessed to have other survivors offer me support and have been very open on my personal journey on my own social media.
“I have helped friends and strangers, knowing the difference it makes.”
Details: www.thelongrun.org.au/fundraisers/johneyan/the-long-run-2022
