I met with a back specialist a few days ago, and was shocked to learn that the pain I've been experiencing is directly related to the prostate cancer that has metastasized in my spine. Dr. Kruger told me that my L3 vertebra has a significant amount of cancer, and my L4 is fractured. He strongly suggested back surgery and soon. I agreed to that - there really was no choice.

My surgery will occur on July 26th. Dr Kruger will use some sort of cement to repair the L4 vertebra, and screw a rod into about 5 vertebrae. I'm not sure how they'll handle the cancerous L3. This will be major surgery. The good news is that my doctors consider me a good candidate for the surgery,

I met with my prostate surgeon Dr Kesler the next day and he gave me another shot of Lupron. Since this hormone failed to stop the progression of my cancer, I will need additional hormones. So far there is no talk of chemo.

A few weeks after surgery I'll meet with my oncologist and he'll let me know what hormone(s) I'll need going forward. I will also meet with my old friend Dr. Boyd (he treated me 6 years ago), who will discuss the radiation treatments I'll receive.

I think I'm still in shock - I knew something was going on with my prostate cancer, but I was surprised how this all developed. I am remaining positive. As I said, they feel that I'm a good candidate, so they foresee me surviving for a decent amount of time. I really like all my doctors, and their nurse coordinators are the best. If you need cancer treatment, I think these things are important.