Redland patients receive access to world-class treatment for prostate cancer

Rick Steley is the first prostate cancer patient to receive stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) treatment at Icon Cancer Centre Redland. The Russell Island local was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2017 and shares his story here.

“During a routine health check my GP discovered a sudden jump in my PSA (prostate specific antigen) blood reading. I didn’t have any obvious symptoms. It just goes to show how important it is to have regular health checks. My oncologist made it clear that what I had wasn’t life threatening because it was picked up so early. That meant I only had to have radiation therapy and not chemotherapy, which I was thankful for,” Rick said.

“It’s very complex and there is so much preparation involved for each patient. It’s something the team put their heart and soul into to make sure they get it right. I have the highest regard for the Icon team. They are so professional but they’re so friendly while they do it all. They really do care,” Rick said.

Rick says he is thankful for the support of his wife Jane, who is a former nurse, and their two children.

He also grateful to the local veterans’ community, who have helped get Rick too and from treatment while Jane cares for the couple’s young grandson.

“Throughout my diagnosis and treatment, I have just followed the bouncing ball. Cancer is unpredictable but I’ve put my faith in the medical teams and technology and done everything they have advised. That’s all you can do,” Rick said.