Patient Testimonial – Mel’s Story
Routine health check-ups and preventive measures are often the unsung heroes in the battle against diseases. For 76-year-old retiree veteran Mel Soares Jr., the regular Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) tests were the first line of defense against prostate cancer. Despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle and feeling no symptoms, a slight rise in his PSA levels shown on his annual tests prompted further investigation, including his first biopsy, which came back negative. But a few years later, when his PSA level jumped to a 7, Mel had a second biopsy, which revealed he had prostate cancer. “I’m active with the local veterans of my area; half of us have had prostate issues. We are just at that age, but they had symptoms of one kind or another”, says Mel. “I had no symptoms; that is where I got blindsided.”
Upon Mel being diagnosed with prostate cancer, his primary care doctor referred him to Epic Care’s Radiation Oncologist, Dr. Uma Swamy, who quickly identified him as a suitable candidate for a cutting-edge treatment known as CyberKnife®. CyberKnife technology utilizes advanced robotics and real-time imaging, allowing targeted treatment with minimal impact on surrounding healthy tissues. CyberKnife provided Mel with a chance to combat cancer without the need for surgery or extended periods of traditional radiation therapy. “What impressed me most about CyberKnife is how precise and safe it is. It’s state-of-the-art cancer treatment designed for me.” says Mel.
Impressed by the precision and safety offered by CyberKnife, Mel underwent five non-invasive, pain-free treatment sessions. “The team at Epic Care are all great people, walking me through the process, letting me know what was going on, very fine people top to bottom,” says Mel. Mel experienced minimal side effects and could go about his daily routine during and after treatment, including getting in his daily walks when he can.
Armed with a newfound appreciation for early detection, the veteran has become an advocate for prostate health. Mel shares his journey with family, friends, and comrades, urging them to prioritize regular check-ups and PSA tests. His message is clear: prostate cancer can strike without warning, even in the absence of noticeable symptoms. “If I didn’t have a PSA done, I would not have known,” says Mel. “If you’re not going to do it for yourself, do it for your family.”
Mel’s journey from an unexpected prostate cancer diagnosis to successful CyberKnife treatment serves as a beacon of hope for others. His commitment to spreading awareness about the importance of regular check-ups and PSA testing highlights the critical role that early detection plays in defeating prostate cancer.
As medical technology advances, stories like Mel’s highlight the significance of staying vigilant about our health. Mel’s resilience, combined with the precision of CyberKnife, exemplifies how early detection and cutting-edge treatments can pave the way for a healthy and fulfilling life, even in the face of unforeseen challenges.
The information included in this testimonial is based on one patient’s unique experience and is not intended to represent all patient outcomes or expectations.
To learn more about CyberKnife, please visit www.epiccarecyberknife.com
