As part of my treatment for prostate cancer, I now need to undergo even more medical tests as I continue with doublet therapy.
Doublet therapy combines Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT) with a second medication that more aggressively blocks testosterone—the hormone that fuels prostate cancer cells.
This treatment comes with significant side effects including accelerated bone loss which can increase the risk of osteoporosis. The reason for this is because testosterone plays an important role in protecting bone density.
Many of the fellow prostate cancer patients I have met throughout this journey have shared their own experiences with osteoporosis, reminding me that this is a very real challenge for many of us.
Today, I had a bone density scan, and later this week I will return for another ultrasound.
These tests are very challenging, however, they are an important part of making sure my medical team can monitor my health and provide the best possible care.
I continue to place my trust in the exceptional medical team at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. Their expertise, compassion, and dedication give me confidence that I am receiving world-class care.
This journey is teaching me that every test, every appointment, and every challenge is an opportunity to keep moving forward.
It has also been a powerful wake-up call for me to take even greater control of my health.
I am committed to doing everything I can by following a healthy low-fat, plant-based diet, exercising as much as my body allows, and cleaning up my mental mess by focusing my energy on helping others – both online and through my volunteer work at St. Michael’s Hospital.
I can’t always control what cancer throws my way, but I can control how I respond to it.
I live my life with meaning and I focus on one moment at a time.
An inspirational quote that I learned shortly after being diagnosed with aggressive Stage IV metastatic prostate cancer continues to remind me that:
“Cancer is a word, not a sentence.”
Thank you to everyone who continues to support, encourage, and pray for me.
Your kindness means a lot to me.
Anthony Aquan-Assee
