I finally saw the Physical Therapist, who did an assessment of the muscles that controlled urine flow, and she said mine were very weak. She thought that the triple whammy of a cystoscopy, a catheter, and a UTI did a real number on them. But she assured me that I would regain continence, but it would take 6 to 8 weeks.

During my first session, she placed electrodes in my anal area, and then told me to do some Kegels. The instrument gave me feedback that indicated that my Kegels were not very strong. After some coaching, I improved my "technique". Like any muscle, there is a right way and a wrong way to exercise.

I've had 3 sessions so far, and my incontinence is much improved. I am hoping that I will be continent by late May/early June. I will continue to do Kegels the rest of my life, except with an improved technique.

A couple of other things: so far my Lupron side effects consist of headaches (which seem to be fading, albeit slowly). I also have 3 or 4 hot flashes a day, but they are not too intense and don't last very long. I don't seem to have any problems with fatigue or weakness (any more than what I consider normal for a 65 year old).

I get more sleep now than when I worked. I go to the gym 5 days a week. I go on a hike just about every week. I am avoiding some exercises until I regain continence. Once that's resolved, I plan on doing more intense exercises for core strength and balance.

One more thing - I met the oncologist and he was great - he may be my new favorite doctor. He gave me some good news - the prostate cancer in my bones is very small, and should be halted in its tracks by the Lupron hormone. I asked him what happens if/when the Lupron stops working. He feels that they would add different hormones, and that as of now, I may never need chemo.

He gives me an excellent chance for living a long life, and as I have always felt, the longer I live with Prostate Cancer, the better the chances that new treatments will come along.