I was diagnosed in June 2010 with an elevated PSA reading following a routine (annual) blood test and subsequently referred to Dr Charles Chabert at the John Flynn Hospital TUGAN. The existence of Prostate Cancer was confirmed following a biopsy in July 2010. I considered all options regarding surgery, and under the professional guidance of Dr Chabert, we agreed the major concern was the have the cancerous tumours removed as soon as possible. Fortunately for me, the tumours were encapsulated within the prostate, there had been NO spreading into other parts of my body.

I elected to have the surgery performed by Dr Chabert, using the state-of-the-art equipment, for a robotic radical prostatectomy (complete removal of the prostate gland and its cancerous content). The operation was performed laparoscopicaly, using 5 small incisions in the lower abdomen to access the prostate, with minimal blood loss.

I elected to have surgery at the Wesley Private Hospital Brisbane on the 17th September, later that same evening I was walking around the ward of the hospital. Unbelievable to say the least. A very minimal amount of pain, more discomfort than pain, but very, very manageable.

Saturday morning, the 18th, Dr Chabert attended the ward, we discussed the operation and my overall prognosis, he then told me I could go home! Later that day I travelled by car (my wife drove) to my home without any problems at all.

I have been simply amazed at how quickly I have recovered from this major surgery. Very minimal post -operative pain, more of a discomfort with a catheter for 7 days, but this is insignificant to the other outcome.

Within 7 days of the operation I was back into a normal routine with my diet, exercise (low impact) and after removal f the catheter, within 4 weeks I was back to walking 10kms, 3 days a week and swimming 2km on alternate days.

It has now been 8 weeks since my operation, I am now walking 10kms, 6 days a week and swimming 3 days. My diet is back to normal, I have no scar tissue around the incision nor do I experience any pain. My continence is about 90% and I know that exercise and strengthening the core muscles will hasten my recovery even further.

I have a very positive outlook and I feel stronger and healthier every day. Also, I am 100% certain that I have made the right choice having this operation performed robotically and laparoscopicaly. The post-operative recovery time is simply amazing. the compassion and ongoing care from Dr Chabert and his team is just so supportive in dealing with this insidious and silent disease.