Early action means great results for Simon

Having already been through extensive treatment for both lung and larynx cancers Burntwood grand-dad Simon Groves was shocked when a routine operation to treat an enlarged prostate discovered that he had cancer for the third time.

Sixty-year-old Mr Groves, decided to get checked out when he realised his night-time toilet visits were becoming more and more frequent.

And, thanks to his early action, the cancer was removed through surgery – meaning he avoided having to go through both radio and chemotherapy.

“It was my wife who pushed me into seeing my GP about my ‘toilet trips’,” explained Mr Groves. “It turns out to be a real blessing that she did.”

Mr Groves met with Consultant Urological Surgeon Mr Shabi Ahmad at Spire Little Aston Hospital in Sutton Coldfield.

Tests showed that he had an enlarged prostate and would need routine surgery to remove core tissue. The operation was a success but when biopsy results came back it was shown that the tissue that had been removed was actually cancerous.

“It came as a big shock but Mr Ahmad was very positive about everything and really helped to keep my wife and I calm and focussed,” said Mr Groves. “He said I would now need further tests to see what action would be taken next.”

Fortunately, those tests revealed that the tissue removed were the only cancerous ones, meaning that rather than further treatment, Mr Groves could be simply kept under observation with regular blood tests.

Explained Mr Ahmad: “In this instance the outcome was excellent. However, what we can learn is that if a man has urinary problems – infections or an increase in the need to pass water – then early action is always the best way to go.

“The fact that the cancer was spotted at this stage meant it didn’t have chance to spread and can now be treated as ‘low grade’ which means blood tests twice a year so we can keep an eye on any possible developments.”

As for Mr Groves he warns other men ‘don’t be afraid to have your prostate checked’.

“It is not as bad as you may think it is and if you catch cancer early it can be sorted out without the need for chemo or radiotherapy.

“I have been treated at Little Aston for previous cancers and have always found the staff to be excellent from start to finish. They have all helped both me and, more importantly, my wife to get through these setbacks and to enjoy an early retirement together.”