It was a bright Monday morning in May, 2005. A morning like every other morning ... except that my husband had a doctor's appointment. He was going to find out the results of his biopsy. He wasn't too concerned. His PSA count had gone up to 5.7 from 4.9 and the doctor felt it might be a good idea to do this test. I didn't go with him. Several hours later I found out he had prostate cancer.

I can only tell this story from my viewpoint. My husband has said it felt like he hit a brick wall when the doctor said "you have prostate cancer". I just know that for me there was a rush of emotion. Fear mixed with guilt for not being there. Anxiety over the unknown and then a small voice saying "I am in control". After we both cried and comforted each other, maybe a day or so later, there was a funny calm that came over me. I knew God was in control of this situation. It was no surprise to Him. We told our sons and family. We were bombarded with questions as to what we were going to do ... and that's the purpose of this article. Maybe our experience can help you.

The doctor advised my husband to have his prostate removed and explained all the pros and cons. The biggest reason "not to remove" the prostate was because it could result in impotency. We both said "no" to that. We decided to have a second opinion. That doctor said the same thing ... have the prostate removed. There had to be other options. We had researched the Cancer Treatment Center of America in Illinois shortly after we got the news but hesitated to go there because of the distance. However, after this second opinion, we called them and were on the first flight out two days later.

You have probably seen the ads on TV for the Cancer Treatment Center. If cancer hasn't visited your family, then more than likely you ignore the commercials. DON'T!! This Cancer Treatment Center made all the difference for my husband and me. Be informed before you have to be.

We arrived in Chicago, the hospital limousine picked us up at the airport, took us to the hotel and then a shuttle bus picked us up the next morning for our 8:00 am appointment. First impressions are very important -- as we walked into the lobby of the Cancer Treatment Center, we both felt a perfect calm. It was not a "hospital" -- there was no "smell of death" -- we did not see grim faces. What we did see were smiles and friendly faces on patients and staff -- most of all, there was HOPE in the air!

By the end of the week, we were told that there were three options. The cancer was contained in the right side of the prostate and could be treated. Our research had shown a new therapy available called Brachy Therapy. My husband wanted to know more about that. He made the decision to have it done ... it involved 5 weeks of radiation and then the 3-day surgical procedure. The operation was done on Sept 27, 2005.

Today, his PSA count is down to .014 -- he goes back in April for another follow up -- but he is doing really well. In retrospect, we know we did the right thing. We didn't take the first or second opinion -- we had some doubts and followed our gut feelings. We united and prayed seeking the Lord's wisdom. Our choice to go so far away from home for this treatment was questioned by family and friends. But we just felt it was the right choice. We have no regrets.

If you are facing Cancer ... pray. Ask God to show you what you should do. Consider the Cancer Treatment Centers of America -- they are now located in Illinois, Pittsburgh, and I think Texas and Pennsylvania. There is HOPE. Don't give up.

God bless.