According to the American Cancer Society, roughly 2 million new cancer cases are diagnosed each year. In 2024, Kendall Wingrove of Okemos became a member of the club that nobody wants to join.
“When the doctor utters the word ‘cancer,’ it’s the beginning of a whole new chapter in your life. My specific diagnosis was prostate cancer,” said Wingrove. “Like millions of other men, rising PSA scores during regular blood tests had indicated a potential problem. Then, some biopsy samples showed a Gleason score of seven.”
After considerable research and discussions with an oncologist, a urologist, and his wife (a breast cancer survivor), he decided to have radiation therapy and a dose of Lupron. He went to the Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Greater Lansing for the 28-day treatment in November and December 2024.
“Every morning, I drove to the nearby institute and finished my treatment before returning home for breakfast,” said Wingrove. “It was an intense time that required precision and discipline for everyone involved. We worked together to minimize side effects. The team there was kind, organized, and efficient.”
September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. In honor of this important month, Wingrove shared what he has learned during his journey:
Embrace the diagnosis. After the shock of learning you have cancer, do your best to accept the stunning new reality. Face the situation with knowledge and determination.
Educate yourself. There is plenty of accurate information from credible sources available at your fingertips. Take time to learn the terminology, everything from DRE to MRI to ADT. This increased understanding will help you make informed decisions. It is vital that you advocate for yourself. Medical teams bring experience and expertise, but they need your help. Don’t be a passive recipient of care. Instead, emerge as a full partner.
Eliminate risk factors. If you haven’t already adjusted your lifestyle, the moment for change has arrived. Eat properly. Get plenty of rest. Avoid tobacco. Hydrate sufficiently.
Energize and exercise. Tackle cancer with every tool in your toolbox. Find an exercise program appropriate for you, even if it is just walking every day. If a friend or family member can come alongside, all the better.
Entertainment can be therapeutic. Find ways to cut through your somber situation. Listen to your favorite music. Read a book. Take time to laugh. Watch some classic comedy.
Empathize with others. Although you have some insights now about what it’s like to have cancer, don’t assume that fellow patients have the same mindset. One size does not fit all. Listen more and talk less. Learn from your peers.
Explain how you feel. Balance the need for privacy with the value of input from family, friends, and colleagues. Build a support group and share with them how things are going. Be honest and direct. Discuss your challenges.
Explore the new landscape. It’s not the life you had planned, but it’s the new normal. Find ways to make every day count. Stay encouraged, aware, and willing. Move forward as much as you can.
“Everyone’s journey is different. In my case, the experts have found no evidence that the cancer has spread beyond the prostate,” said Wingrove. “While that is encouraging news, the situation is ongoing. Constant monitoring will be required for a long time. There are no guarantees.”
Cancer leaves its mark on you physically, mentally, and emotionally. While patients can conquer cancer and lead a productive and meaningful life, some are never totally free from it. The key is to use that battle-tested perspective and make the most out of the searing experience.
“That hard-won wisdom is a key ingredient for propelling ahead with focus and intentionality,” said Wingrove. “Be grateful for another day and help others in the club to have the same outlook.”
To learn more about Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Greater Lansing, click here. To attend or learn more about our events and support groups for those who are currently battling cancer, survivors, and/or their caregivers, click here.