Professor Prasanna Sooriakumaran 2024-03-11 Person 5 5 0

In July 2023 I was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer. The only option I was offered by the NHS was “Watchful Waiting”, and as my cancer developed, hormone treatment to slow the progress of my cancer. I asked my consultant if the roles were reversed would he be happy to accept my prognosis, he said no! He then referred me to Professor Prasanna Sooriakumaran (Professor PS) at the Cleveland Clinic London (CCL). I was reluctant to go to London as I live in Stratford upon Avon and the logistics of traveling to London, parking, hotel accommodation (The CCL offer some excellent packages to cover these areas) and the lack of available close support from family and friends, seemed somewhat daunting. However, in my meetings with Professor PS I became convinced he was the right choice to be my consultant. Professor PS was understanding of my concerns, outlined all my options in detail, and explained why a Radical Prostatectomy would be my best option. He took me through all the stages of the procedure from diagnosis to how my operation would be performed to recovery. Professor PS treated me with respect, understanding and kindness and I was conscious I was dealing with someone at the very top of their game. He was very honest with me explaining that my weight and size of my prostate would make the operation more complicated. I heeded his advice and lost two stone and generally ensured my fitness levels improved before the date of my operation. Fortunately, even with the complications of my weight and the extensive reconstructive surgery required, my radical prostatectomy was a complete success. My recovery has been nothing less than spectacular. The nursing staff at the Cleveland Clinic were excellent. After the surgery I had no pain and no discomfort. I was able to get up the day after my operation and walk about and went home two days later. After 3 weeks I had my catheter removed and was discharged from the CCL. Professor PS kept in touch with me during this period and made time to visit me just before I was discharged. The next stage is up to me; to continue my weight loss, improve my fitness and most importantly do my pelvic floor exercises. I owe Professor PS a great debt as he has given me a second chance, one I do not intend to waste. I would also like to thank Kristy Webb, Professor PS ‘s secretary, who was brilliant in sorting out any admin or general referrals, queries, whatever was required. Also, Jacqui Duncan {Urology Advanced Nurse Practitioner} fixer supreme and provider of all levels of support. Both ladies were utter professionals, kind, understanding and supportive of me at all times.