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Tips for getting through treatment with a radiation therapy mask
When Rev Deacon John Taylor was diagnosed with prostate cancer, it changed his outlook on life
A well-known Catholic Deacon in the Maitland region, John says his diagnosis gave him the opportunity to reignite long-held passions.
“Coming face to face with one’s mortality is confronting to say the least and it changed my outlook on life completely. I decided to try to live every day to its fullest,” says 80-year-old John. “Despite my age, I bought a motorcycle, which is something I had always wanted to do but didn’t because my wife, quite naturally, wasn’t all that happy about it. Unfortunately, she died in 2018 but it took the cancer to reawaken the motorbike issue.”
John received his prostate cancer diagnosis in early 2023.
“I saw an urologist with symptoms of frequent and urgent urinary problems. Scans located the cancer,” says John. “I felt a bit worried at first, but more resigned than anything else. The urologist referred me to Icon Cancer Centre Maitland radiation oncologist, Dr Kate Martin, who was able to reassure me that such cancers were common and usually curable.
I was given four consecutive weeks of radiation treatment. The treatment itself was painless and non-invasive. The technicians were excellent and cooperative in scheduling dates and times to accommodate me. Dr Martin has a uniquely wonderful manner, with a great sense of humour. The reception staff and nursing staff were equally as excellent.
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In late 2023, John rang the bell to mark his final radiation therapy treatment at Icon Maitland. He is now back to doing the things that bring him the most joy.
It was rather a proud moment for me to ring the bell. I have been playing bowls, sometimes seven days a week after my wife, Beverley died. Now my time is shared between bowls and my motorbike, 'Rupert'. Here endeth the epistle.
The content on the Icon Cancer Centre website is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified medical practitioner. For personalised medical guidance, please consult with your GP or another qualified healthcare provider.
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