Being diagnosed with and living with prostate cancer can significantly change a man's outlook on life. It is an emotionally and physically difficult experience, often resulting in feelings of fear, worry, stress, helplessness, or anger. Although such reactions are common, there is no prescribed way to avoid them. Everyone reacts differently.
Major Richard Rees is a member of Brothers United Against Prostate Cancer. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2015 and said that with support, diet, exercise and lifestyle changes can play a key role in mitigating the impact of the diagnosis. Reese, who spoke at a virtual forum hosted by Wellness Men Mastery, said that since leaving the military, he has been very diligent about his annual physicals, adapted to lifestyle changes and is a member of a support group. It is said that it became
“I think I've influenced about 50 people so far to get tested or go ahead with an intervention. I've never had so many friends and colleagues with prostate problems until I shared my experience.” I didn't know that in this age group, I'm 67, almost 1 in 2 people you know have some kind of condition or are in some stage of treatment. So that's a significant number of people,” Reese said.
“As men, unless we know or hear that someone we know is undergoing treatment, we are less likely to open up and seek help,” he continued.
Mr. Rees emphasized the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle for all men, regardless of their diagnosis. Establishing healthy habits will improve your quality of life, regardless of your current health status.
“The things I was overdosing on, like alcohol, red meat and too much starch, I've now switched back to fish, more vegetables and fruit. [and] Cereals. I also re-inflated it. Diagnosed with chronic or cystolithiasis, a mixture of water and lime juice became my new drink. And, of course, I drink tea,” Reese emphasized.
The new lifestyle changes he shared won't happen overnight, but they will have to adapt given the diagnosis. “I'm really forced to make that change. The hormone injections I'm receiving have caused me to lose muscle tone, so I'll have to be more rigorous with my exercise regimen from now on.”
Another important aspect he mentioned is reducing stress and managing it effectively. He mentioned the need for individuals to find ways to relax and suggested walking as a beneficial alternative.
“Walking is really good. Go for a walk, preferably in a group, at least three or four times a week. Get some fresh air. Just get out there. And in whatever form it takes. But remember that when you exercise, your body gets tired, which can lead to better sleep.The quality of your sleep is a pretty good indicator of your health if you're not sleeping well. It's a problem,” said Major Reese.
keisha.hill@gleanerjm.com