Thanks to early detection and a proactive care team, Bill Reeves is on the path to recovery after a surprising prostate cancer diagnosis in early 2025. Here, the Cumming resident talks about the care he received from his Northside Hospital providers.
What are the events that led up to your cancer diagnosis?
I went to see my primary care provider (PCP), Dr. Samantha Benson of Internal Medicine Associates of John's Creek, and upon review of my test results, she recommended I go to Georgia Urology, since my PSA had increased slightly for the last four or five years. I had no other real symptoms that would indicate any issues with my prostate.
For some reason, I did not blow off her recommendation, and I made an appointment. I got my PSA taken at the urologist’s office, and it had jumped from 3.3 to 4.5. All of my tests led to a prostate biopsy, which resulted in 17 out of 17 samples positive and a Gleason score of 9. Genetic testing of the cancer showed it was high risk, with a score of 0.95 out of 1.0.
All of my doctor’s appointments ended up going about as badly as they could. The whirlwind of visits and follow-ups quickly blurred together, leaving me overwhelmed.
What treatment did you receive?
I was told that surgery (prostatectomy) was my only option based on my biopsy results. The surgery [at Northside Hospital Forsyth] in late March of this year was successful. As suspected, my urologist, Dr. Daniel Belew, had to sever nerves and be as aggressive as he could to remove all of the cancer, which was showing signs of wanting to spread. Despite his efforts, he was unable to get the margins he wanted without causing additional damage to my urinary system.
How and where did you receive support during your treatment and recovery?
Throughout my treatment, the health care providers at Georgia Urology followed a definitive plan and were super attentive to my treatment schedule, given the aggressiveness of my cancer. I have had regular visits with Georgia Urology and have relied on their expertise to understand my situation and make informed decisions. Additionally, since my surgery, I have been regularly going to physical therapy to try and recover as well.
Did you utilize Northside Hospital Cancer Institute's patient support resources? If so, which would you recommend?
I did keep in touch with the Northside navigation nurses, but I did not have to take advantage of the resource. I knew it was available to me, but I was able to have a relatively smooth journey in spite of the circumstances.
What advice do you have for someone navigating their treatment and recovery journey?
Being diagnosed with cancer can be an overwhelming and emotional experience. I truly believe it is imperative not to get too far ahead of your current situation, as there are so many variables and things out of your control. If you are not careful, you will overwhelm yourself with dramatic outcomes and “what ifs” that can become too much to manage. It is easier said than done, but you really need to try and stay in the moment, take each step as it comes and trust your doctors and support system.
How far out are you from treatment, or is treatment ongoing?
I am almost 11 weeks out from my surgery, and recovery is going pretty much as expected. I am continuing with physical therapy and hope to overcome some incontinence and ED issues. It is also worth noting that I just recently got my first post-surgery PSA test results, and the PSA was not detectable. This is obviously good news, but I am going to remain vigilant and ensure that I continue following standard prostate cancer/PSA detection protocols.
Closing thoughts
I have been told more than once that my PCP saved my life. I am still amazed at the aggressive timeline of my prostate cancer detection that led to surgery and recovery. I essentially had no symptoms beyond a slightly upward-trending PSA. If I had not been proactive and listened to my doctor, I would be in a much worse situation.
I also want to be sure that people understand that a journey with cancer is an emotional as well as a physical experience. I expected the physical side to be uncomfortable at times, but the emotional side was unexpectedly tough too. The best advice I was given was to make sure I gave myself grace and time to absorb all the emotions that I might expect to experience.
Additionally, try your best to find someone you can confide in and ask questions. This type of support system is absolutely invaluable and essential to staying grounded.
Learn more about prostate cancer care at Northside Hospital Cancer Institute.
*The health story shared here is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Patients should consult with their own physician before making medical decisions.
