‘I finally felt heard’: navigating prostate cancer through shared experiences

Living with prostate cancer can be a daunting experience – from understanding an unexpected diagnosis and weighing up difficult decisions around treatment, to changing your lifestyle and considering the impact on your family.  

Whatever challenges you have in front of you, you don’t have to face them alone. There are many others who’ve found themselves in a similar situation. And you may find a simple conversation, with someone who’s been through it all before, can help you pick your path through prostate cancer. 

Everyone has their own unique story to tell – and no two people will have the same experience of this complex disease. But hearing how others have navigated their personal prostate cancer journey may offer you clarity as well as compassion. 

We asked three people who’ve used our One-to-One Peer Support Service – Martin, Anne-Marie and Daryl* – to share their reflections and explain how their experiences speaking with a trained volunteer helped them move forward with confidence. 

Space and time to talk through your concerns

Martin, 73

When I was diagnosed with prostate cancer, I felt completely overwhelmed. I didn’t know anyone who’d been through this before, and I was very worried about the after-effects of treatment. I wondered how people who’d gone through it had coped after.

Fortunately I discovered Prostate Cancer UK’s One-to-One Peer Support Service. I was matched with two volunteers – Paul and Wilf – who’d both had surgery and radiotherapy themselves several years earlier.

Speaking with Paul and Wilf gave me so much reassurance. No question felt too silly to ask. They were honest about their experiences and gave me practical advice about what to expect when going through the process of treatment. They didn't sugar-coat anything, which is exactly what I wanted.

Most importantly, they listened to me. They gave me the space and time to talk through my concerns – far more time than I got in the hospital. For the first time, I really felt heard.

I couldn't think of a better way of getting first-hand knowledge from people who have experience of the same thing you’re going through.

Kind, compassionate and knowledgeable

Anne-Marie, 54

The One-to-One Peer Support Service isn’t just for men with prostate cancer. It’s for anyone who’s been affected by the disease, which includes their partners, family members and carers. 

That was me, when my husband was diagnosed with prostate cancer a few years ago. It gave me so much comfort to speak with another carer.

At a time when you're feeling a bit confused and emotional, having access to support from people who’ve been there themselves is invaluable. 

The volunteer I spoke to was kind and compassionate. They really knew their stuff. And after our conversation, I felt far more confident that I had the best possible information to support my husband with an important decision about his treatment.

A sympathetic listening ear

Daryl, 62 

I had surgery after being diagnosed with prostate cancer. Following the operation, I found out that my PSA levels had risen – and I felt uncertain about my next steps. I was concerned about the potential side effects of further treatment and the impact this might have on my quality of life. 

I found the decision-making process overwhelming and I felt like a rabbit in the headlights. It was around that time that I was matched with a peer support volunteer, who’d experienced a similar situation.  

This service is there for people like me, who may be feeling scared about their situation or simply want to have an open conversation with someone. That’s exactly what I had – a very sympathetic listening ear, from someone who’d been through the same thing as me. 

Moving forward, one conversation at a time

Through the power of shared experiences, our One-to-One Peer Support Service is here to help you find strength and connection.

If you or someone you love has been affected by prostate cancer, we’re here for you. Together, we can help you navigate this journey. One conversation at a time.

If you're looking for support, you can get in touch with us whenever feels right for you. Simply fill out our short form and we’ll match you with a friendly volunteer who’s been through a similar experience and can speak with you about the challenges you’re facing.

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*For this article, we’ve changed some people’s names to protect their anonymity – but their stories and reflections are real.