When George looks back on his cancer diagnosis, what stands out most is not fear of what lay ahead, but the clarity that came from understanding his options and choosing a treatment path that felt right for him.
His prostate cancer was detected through routine Prostate‑Specific Antigen (PSA) testing. An elevated result led to further investigations, including an MRI and biopsy at The Royal Melbourne Hospital, where George was diagnosed with Grade Group 2 adenocarcinoma, an intermediate‑grade prostate cancer. A subsequent PET scan confirmed the cancer had not spread, offering welcome reassurance during an otherwise uncertain time.
While the diagnosis was confronting, it wasn’t entirely unexpected.
“I was half-expecting to eventually develop the disease as I had a family history,” George explains. “My father and uncle both passed away after battling prostate cancer. Being more than twenty years younger, I would not have considered leaving the disease untreated.”
Following his initial consultation, George found himself uncertain about which treatment option was right for him. It was around this time that he saw 5D Clinics featured in a 9 News report and decided to learn more about CyberKnife® treatment.
Under the care of Professor Shankar Siva, George commenced treatment and went on to receive a course of five CyberKnife® sessions over two weeks.
“The sessions were very easy and trouble-free, apart from my bladder-related symptoms,” George recalls. “The staff at the clinic were very friendly and helpful, and they went to considerable lengths to make me feel comfortable, relaxed, and stress-free.”
George credits the strength he drew throughout treatment to the unwavering support of his wife and daughter, who were by his side every step of the way. “It would have been considerably more difficult without them,” he says.
Reflecting on his experience, George encourages others facing a cancer diagnosis to take the time to explore their options and to seek a second opinion if needed.
Now that treatment is complete, George has returned to working intermittently and is embracing a slower pace as he approaches retirement. Outside of work, he enjoys creating retro‑themed poster art, a creative outlet he shares on Instagram and Facebook.
