Last year we profiled Peter Goudy, who shared the ups and downs of his treatment for stage 3 prostate cancer after his diagnosis in July 2021. Peter had struggled with side effects after 44 days of radiation treatment, and when we spoke to him last year, he felt like he was finally turning the corner. We recently caught up with Peter for an update.
BMC: How have you been feeling?
Peter: Things have gotten a lot better. I’ve only had to use a catheter to pee maybe three times since we spoke, so that feels like it’s getting better. It also means I can leave the house more often, as long as I prepare myself by not drinking a lot of fluids. I’m starting to get used to the new routine.
BMC: Any highlights to share?
Peter: Last summer, I tried to get out on my motorcycle more, though not as much as I wanted to—but I did get out on some of my smaller bikes. I’d say the highlight was a camping trip to Acadia. My friends and I have been doing a trip there for the past 14 years, where we all ride up Cadillac Mountain and have a great time. Last summer, I rented a 30-foot RV and brought two of my grandsons, my ex-wife, and two dogs and we had a blast. And just before the trip, I got the results of my PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) and learned I was cancer free, which was great news. We all celebrated with a big cake.
BMC: Are you still part of the prostate cancer support group?
Peter: Yes, I get so much from those guys and highly recommend it to anyone who’s had cancer. No matter who you are, the isolation can get to you, with the pain and all the other side effects. Having a network of good, supportive people around you is really important.
BMC: Where else do you find support?
Peter: The entire staff at BMC—from the nurses and doctors to the front-end staff and receptionists—are just the nicest people. That has made my treatment so much easier. When I was having really bad symptoms, I got a little upset with my urologist, and he told me to call him directly if I had any more problems. Then we bonded when I told him I was seeing the Wu-Tang Clan and we ended our visit with a big hug. That kind of support is incredible.