Chris' Story
"In all likelihood going for a Bluecrest Wellness health assessment probably saved my life. Who knows what would have happened if they hadn’t caught it when they did?"
Chris Robinson, from Plymouth, hadn’t noticed any issues with his prostate before he went for a Bluecrest Wellness health assessment - he just wanted a bit of a peace of mind. But the results showed his PSA levels were raised, and on further investigation he was diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer.
Chris explains:
"I’ve often thought it’s quite mad that we MOT our cars every year to make sure they’re road worthy, but don’t treat our bodies with the same respect. So, after a friends recommendation, a Bluecrest Wellness health assessment just seemed to make sense, especially at my sort of age. And I didn’t want to pester the GP when nothing was really wrong, because the NHS has enough troubles. So, my wife and I booked in with Bluecrest and went along to a hotel just round the corner.
We found the tests very thorough and very professional without being invasive. Although I discovered that I’m shrinking with age and at least an inch shorter than I thought I was! We went away and didn’t think much more of it. But when the glossy reports came back, mine flagged up that my PSA levels weren’t looking right, and needed to be checked out."
Diagnosis
"So off I went to get very up close and personal with my GP, and after that he referred me on to the local hospital. An MRI and a biopsy later the consultant sat me down and told me I had prostate cancer.
I was floored to be honest. Although I’d been listening to ‘Don’t Fear the Reaper’ by Blue Oyster Cult in the scanner, so maybe that should’ve been a clue! But there was literally nothing that I’d have clocked as a symptom of any waterworks issues. I’ve been up to the loo at least once in the night for at least the last 20/30 years, and while I do wee a lot I also drink a lot of water, so it wasn’t anything unusual.
I went through all the normal emotions you go through, I suppose. Is this is? What does it mean? How bad is it, how long? All of that. Luckily I’m quite a gregarious sort of person, so I knew a lot of blokes, for instance from my cricket team, who’d already been through the same thing. So I had people to talk to, as well as my consultant.
Even luckier, because of Bluecrest Wellness, my cancer was caught really, really early, and was still contained within the prostate. That meant I could have quite simple surgery and avoid being zapped with the really nasty chemotherapy stuff. Some people I know haven’t been as lucky, and are having a much rougher ride with it than I am. So I’m incredibly grateful I went for that health assessment when I did."
Recovery
Chris had his surgery within weeks of his diagnosis, and has recovered well. He’s now back on top form, working, playing cricket, enjoying life, kids and grandkids.
He continues: "I was left with a few small scars and day or two of shoulder pain from being inverted on the operating table, but that was it. I have to say I think the NHS does an absolutely brilliant job under a lot of duress - but they’re so busy dealing with sick people they really can’t do the ones who just want to take charge and get checked out on the off chance. And that’s okay. We need to change our mindset. We pay for our cars’ MOT, why not our bodies? You’ll never own anything more important to you.
I’m not a wealthy man, but I think Bluecrest Wellness is well worth spending my money on. If you can afford a weekend away, or afford to go to the gym, you can afford a health assessment. And it could be the best investment you ever make.
I don’t know how my cancer would have developed if it had gone untreated for another year or more. And it’s thanks to Bluecrest Wellness I don’t have to find out. I’ll definitely be going back, and I’d definitely recommend them to anyone. If in doubt, check it out. In fact get checked even if you don’t have a doubt!"
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