David Green

I’m taking on The Long Run

 Running for a Reason 

About a year ago, a routine blood test showed my PSA levels were slightly elevated. At my first appointment with the urologist, he casually dropped the “C” word into our brief conversation. He gave me the typical finger up the bum and remarked "it's definitely on the larger size" which apparently can cause increased PSA readings, and likely the reason for the higher levels. A review was scheduled for 6-months' time to see if the levels had dropped back to normal or increased.

Fast forward to February 2025, just after returning from New Zealand, I paused my usual exercise routine to avoid skewing the results, but my PSA levels had risen even higher again. We decided to retest again in 30 days in case it was still too soon after the 100km event and then book an MRI if that showed no change or a further increase. That follow-up test thankfully showed a drop in PSA, pointing to the lesser of two evils—an enlarged prostate.

Since then, I’ve commenced medication to help relax the bladder neck and prostate. Unfortunately, the side effects of medication gave me a month of severe headaches every morning and only minimal relief. My next test is booked for early September, and I’m currently wondering where this frustrating journey will lead. But I’m not one to sit idle. Hearing the stories of other men and their feelings of indignity, fear, and uncertainty has inspired me to take a positive step forward. I’ve never been big on supporting charities, but raising awareness for prostate cancer feels like the right place to start.

 72 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every single day.
 1 in 5 will experience anxiety or depression as a result.
 Yet 72% of men won’t seek help.

So, between now and the end of September, I’ll be running 150km to raise funds and awareness. I wish I could run further, but injuries have clipped my wings a bit. Still, every step counts.

Please consider supporting this cause. Every dollar helps. Every share spreads the word. Your help means more than you know.

Thanks for listening.

#ProstateCancerAwareness #MensHealth #RunForACause #150kmChallenge #MentalHealthMatters #SupportMen