Today was a big day for me.

I went in for my first PSA blood test since my prostatectomy back on March 4th. Before surgery, my PSA level was at 16, while normal is usually 3 or less. So naturally, this was one of those appointments that sits heavy on your mind leading up to it.

And today, I got the results back…

My PSA level is now 0.05.

That was incredible news to hear.

What’s still strange to me is how technology works these days. We get test results almost instantly before even hearing from our doctors. Thankfully, this result was good news because if that number had been high, I probably would’ve spent the next month stressing before my follow-up appointment in July after my doctor returns from vacation.

Since surgery, it’s definitely been a journey.

Seven days after surgery, I had the catheter removed, and honestly, that was probably the worst part of the entire process. After that came the challenge of my body learning how to function without a prostate. My urethra was reconnected directly to my bladder, and let me tell you… your body has to completely relearn some things most people never even think about.

I’ve been doing Kegel exercises for about 9 months now — both before and after surgery — to strengthen my pelvic floor and regain bladder control. I’d say I’m probably about 85% there. I still wear small pads occasionally, but thankfully the men’s diapers are officially retired. That’s a milestone worth celebrating all by itself.

Mentally, I think I’ve done pretty well through all of this. The support from friends and family has honestly meant everything. But anyone going through cancer knows there’s also a lot of quiet thinking that happens in your own head. Every little ache or pain can make your mind wander into places you don’t want it to go.

I’m grateful I’ve had people around me to talk to and lean on so I didn’t bottle everything up.

The doctor did tell me that some cancer had spread just outside the prostate and into my seminal vesicle, so at my next appointment we’ll discuss radiation options to hopefully eliminate any remaining cancer cells completely.

But overall, life is moving forward in a positive direction.

I’ve been cleared to start lifting again, traveling again, and getting back to normal life. We’re now gearing up for our International Travel Convention in Oahu, Hawaii this July. We also have a Pennsylvania trip coming up, along with a FAM trip to Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo, Mexico to check out resorts and destinations there.

After everything these past few months, it feels really good to start focusing on adventures again.

I just want to close by thanking everyone who has followed along with our journey, read our blog posts, sent messages, prayed for us, and checked in on me throughout this process.

Your support has meant more than you probably realize.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Nick & Sherri