New book Prostate Cancer's Emotional Maze: Forging Your Way''

September 5, 2006

Clues offered to prostate cancer 'maze'

Monday, September 04, 2006

Larry Eiler says men need to talk more when dealing with a most serious

subject, prostate cancer.

snip

" Prostate Cancer's Emotional Maze: Forging Your Way'' traces Eiler's

personal journey, from the diagnosis to his decision about treatment,

to his recovery.

The book frankly discusses the emotional and social aspects of a disease

that frightens many men into silence or submission in confronting their

situation. Questions such as whether men can still have sex or retain

libido after treatment are frankly discussed, along with nuts-and-bolts

advice, such as the suggestion to schedule the last appointment of the

day to get a bit more time with your doctor.

Eiler even recounts how he overcame claustrophobia during a CAT scan. He

closed his eyes and played a mental game of golf around his home course,

the Ann Arbor Golf & Outing Club. He did well, too, shooting a personal

record of 4 over par for the seven holes he imagined before the test

ended.

snip

A former journalist in Syracuse, Eiler's core message is clear: Research

your situation, take control of your body and don't be afraid to

challenge people and ask questions - both of your doctors and of your

support group.

Like many middle-aged men, Eiler had gone five years without a physical

exam. He had no unusual feelings or pains, but knew he had gained some

weight over the years. " I put off going to the doctor because I weighed

too much and did not want to get yelled at!'' Eiler writes, echoing

who-knows-how-many men.

Eiler calls this " the fear of the possible'' or " emotional seclusion.''

A desire to help men break out of that shell is a major reason he wrote

the book.

snip

Eiler talked to his family and to members of his firm, an inner circle

that offered comfort and perspective. Such discussions enabled him to

sort through options, relieve anxiety and clear his mind as he gained a

sense of control.

Recommended Posts