Lundberg researched each Fred Hutch and proton remedy and after discussing professionals and cons together with his spouse, Diane, made proton remedy his primary remedy alternative. He went to see Emily Weg, MD, a prostate most cancers specialist on the Fred Hutch proton remedy facility in Northgate.
“Dr. Weg was simply so good about explaining the whole lot and her optimism was infectious,” Lundberg stated. “I by no means acquired the sensation of a disaster in any respect. In reality, I can’t communicate extremely sufficient of the way in which the place is operated, and the individuals! The consolation and ease that they attempt to instill – I took confidence from their caring perspective and competence.”
Earlier than remedy, he additionally spoke with a previous Fred Hutch prostate most cancers affected person to raised perceive his expertise. As soon as he completed his remedy, he additionally “paid it ahead” by sharing his expertise with a potential affected person fascinated about studying extra about proton remedy.
The proton remedy facility employees connects potential sufferers with previous sufferers upon request.
Lundberg stated he skilled minor negative effects resembling fatigue and discomfort urinating, however these resolved as soon as his remedy was over.
“The toughest factor about proton remedy was the drive to the ability,” he stated. “I used to be fortunate that my daughter and son-in-law drove me to remedy day-after-day from Gig Harbor. They got here in and actually took over. I needed to do nothing however present up. I used to be remarkably pleased with remedy and the outcomes confirmed that.”
Lundberg has had three follow-up assessments of his PSA since ending proton remedy in February 2023. Ready for the outcomes of that first take a look at was probably the most worrisome second for him, he stated. PSA ranges can fluctuate after remedy for about 12 to 18 months. However he acquired a results of 0.6 and “whooped and hollered with pleasure,” he stated.
The quantity has stayed the identical throughout subsequent follow-ups.
“I might suggest that everybody examine all remedy choices accessible to them, particularly proton remedy,” Lundberg stated. “There are various totally different choices and everybody has to make their very own determination on what they assume will work greatest for them. I thought of all the opposite choices, particularly seeds, however once I began to have a look at proton remedy, I knew it was the appropriate remedy for me. And it turned out to be a course of I used to be pleased with, amplified by ease and the individuals. I by no means felt prefer it was an pressing or nerve-racking remedy course of.”
Lundberg continues to look at sports activities, particularly his granddaughter, a highschool freshman who performs varsity basketball. He and spouse Diane additionally spend time with their “queen,” Lucy, a 15-year-old Lhasa Apso.
Nonetheless paying it ahead, Lundberg stated he is comfortable to talk to others who wish to hear about his expertise. Please ask our concierge workforce to place you involved with him. concierge.proton@fredhutch.org.
