At the Vancouver Prostate Centre (VPC) at VGH, Dr. Martin Gleave, Executive Director of the VPC, clinician-scientist and Urologic Surgeon, recommended surgical removal of Don’s prostate, but was concerned about the cancer coming back given its high recurrence rate.

“At that time we had a large clinical trial open, randomizing people like Don to either do surgery alone, or pre-treatment with six months of hormone therapy plus chemotherapy,” says Dr. Gleave.

Don was selected for six months of chemo-hormonal therapy and quickly entered into the program. Once it was finished, Don underwent surgery to remove the remaining cancer cells.

Facing cancer openly and honestly

For men who are now just starting their journey dealing with prostate cancer or are thinking about getting tested, Don believes being as open as possible is the best path to a healthy recovery.

“Don’t hide it, get tested, and talk about it,” says Don. “Share these intimate realities, because it helped me understand better what masculinity is, and certainly what’s important to me as a man and as a father.”

The VPC has a track record of success that has earned it a reputation as one of the world’s most respected cancer facilities. Despite BC having the highest incidence of prostate cancer in the country, it has the lowest mortality rate. This is no coincidence — when you have the best people with the best tools, you will get the best results.