Behind the Numbers
Lean On Me
G
ary Potter is a husband, father, business owner, a survivor, an advocate and a source of support. Four years ago, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer; he opted for robotic surgery to treat the cancer. “Of course, we began to closely monitor my PSA levels and when they went up, we decided to take action,” Potter said. So he underwent radiation treatment. PSA refers to the prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced by the prostate gland; the higher the PSA level, the more likely prostate cancer is present. Symptoms include urination problems, frequent urination and frequent pain in the thighs — things Potter experienced, but “explained away.” “Prostate cancer affects not just the man who has it, but everyone around him, his wife, children, parents,” Potter said. “Your first reaction is 'I’m dying.' Then, 'I’m dying and what’s going to happen to my family.' … when I called my daughter to tell her, she asked, ‘Will you be able to walk me down the aisle?’ [referring to her wedding]. Everyone around you experiences fear initially, and the diagnosis can leave you in a weak emotional state.” That’s why Potter is such a huge advocate for the Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation’s (APCF) Peer Network, a support group for men and those who love them. “Support is very important for men as they go through this journey; going it alone can make the process very difficult,” he said, noting that emotional support is an important part of recovery, perhaps just as important as the support one receives after surgery and radiation treatment. He’s been a part of the Peer Network since his first bout with prostate cancer. “I thought I’d join and move on after I completed treatment. I attended the APCF Boys and Their Toys event and enjoyed it and found I loved the support group. In five years, I've missed three meetings. I just want to give back and help others. There is so much information and so many resources for women going through breast cancer; that’s not the case with men and prostate cancer.” During the sessions, Potter, who owns Potter Motors in Conway, is an open book, sharing his experiences, such as trying to maintain his pre-radiation schedule while being treated. He gives advice — “your job is to get cancer free” — and said the group asks for no commitment. “You have some men who come once, get what they need and never return. Others, like me, have been involved for years.” He advises men and their loved ones facing a prostate cancer diagnosis: “Become your own advocate. Do your research, ask questions and arm yourself with information. Seek a second opinion … and speak with others who’ve been where you are.”
“Your first reaction is 'I’m dying.' Then, 'I’m dying and what’s going to happen to my family.' … when I called my daughter to tell her, she asked, ‘Will you be able to walk me down the aisle?’"
For more information about prostate cancer, APCF, the Peer Network or a support group near you, call (501) 3798027 or log onto arprostatecancer.org. aymag.com . 107