Had blood in my in 2005, met my family Doc, he did several tests including an ultrasound and then sent me to a Urologist. Three tumors were found in my bladder, one which was very large. Started 6 BCG treatments, but had a recurrence, started another 6 BCG and had another recurrence. At this Turbt the doc instilled mitomycin C and I then started another set of BCG treatments, followed by 12 monthly maintenance BCG treatments. So as of this writing I have been all clear 4 years on Nov 10, 2011. During my treatments I had a number of UTI's and in 2009 my Uro sent me to an Infection Specialist. After several tests he found that due to the number of BCG treatments my bladder was never totally emptying. So he prescribed cranberry supplements. I have not had a UTI since and my bladder has recovered and is now totally emptying.
In 2008 thanks to the fine people at this site I got a 2nd opinion at a top bladder cancer hospital, who confirmed my pathology results and my treatment plan.
For many reasons I co-founded Bladder Cancer Canada in 2009. We have grown to over 600 members and grow by approx 7 members per week. We have raised sufficient funds to partner with Health Canada for our first bladder cancer research project in 2012.
There are several people on this site that motivated and helped with the creation of a Canadian bladder cancer support group.
I honestly believe that ABLCS has the most knowledgeable patients and caregivers to support newly dx bladder cancer patients and their families. I still send Canadians who have a rare or complex diagnosis to ABLCS to get the best advice and support.
BCG = Bladder Cancer Gone
Thanks for reading my story,
Jack Moon
President
Bladder Cancer Canada