Put to the test
Martin Dixon
Oct, 2021
Physicians: Benjamin Gielda, MD
John Gosling, MD
Benjamin Stockton, MD
Retired engineer Martin Dixon takes a matter of fact, analytical approach to life. So, when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, he faced his treatment with the same outlook.
Martin knew he had a family history of the disease and had been monitoring his health with primary care internist John Gosling, MD, who referred him to urologist Benjamin Stockton, MD. When Martin was in in his 50s, his father, who survived prostate cancer years before, suggested he start having an annual prostate specific antigen (PSA) test.
Checking PSA levels involves a simple blood test. It's normal for a small amount of PSA to get into the blood from the prostate. But sometimes, changes in the prostate can cause a significant increase in the PSA levels found in the blood, which can indicate early warning signs of prostate cancer before any symptoms occur.
During an annual check in 2010, Martin’s test results showed his numbers had jumped significantly. As a precaution, Dr. Stockton suggested Martin have his prostate removed. The procedure was performed using the da Vinci® Xi™ Surgical System which resulted in less pain and a shorter healing time.
“Dr. Stockton was very straightforward—he told me exactly what I should expect,” said Martin. “I didn’t hesitate about getting my prostate removed because I trusted his opinion.”
After the surgery, Martin continued to have his PSA levels checked every six months. Unfortunately, a decade later, a test showed that his numbers had once again gone up, most likely due to cancerous cells forming in the area where the prostate was previously.
Martin met with radiation oncologist Benjamin Gielda, MD, to develop a treatment plan.
“Dr. Gielda was very personable,” said Martin. “When I had questions, he answered them quickly and explained everything in great detail.”
Dr. Gielda recommended the standard 39 rounds of radiation therapy, and Martin agreed with the approach. He wanted to get the cancer taken care of as quickly as possible.
Over the next eight weeks, he underwent radiation treatment five times a week, with each session lasting 10 to15 minutes. He did not experience any side effects or pain.
“The whole process was very positive,” said Martin. “I was impressed with all of the staff. They were friendly and efficient. Most of the time, I was in and out and able to go on with my day very quickly.”
Martin spends most of his days volunteering with numerous organizations in St. Joseph, including the Silver Beach Carousel, Habitat for Humanity, Krasl Art Center, and Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra.
With his radiation treatment now complete, Martin and his health care team will continue to monitor his PSA levels to ensure they remain low and no additional treatment is needed.
“I knew this was not a death sentence,” said Martin. “When I shared my diagnosis with my friends, I told them that there was nothing to get upset about. My doctors knew exactly what they were doing. If anyone was going to fix me up, it would be them.”
Prostate cancer affects 1 in every 8 men. Although symptoms aren’t always obvious, prostate cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer when caught early. If you need to schedule a PSA test, talk to your doctor today.