Testimonials
Darryl Crum
Darryl Crum has been diligent in getting his yearly PSA screenings. For a couple of years, he has witnessed his PSA levels creep steadily upward. Since hitting age 50, he visited his primary care physician for complete blood work every six months to monitor his levels. It didn’t take long for them to spike, however. Once they did, Darryl’s physician referred him to an urologist. A biopsy confirmed prostate cancer. It was also found that some cancer had broken through the side of the prostate.
For Darryl – a guy who likes to be certain of things – a second opinion at Fox Chase Cancer Center was a must. The urologist there confirmed the biopsy. “I went there because I thought I should go to a big-time hospital. But I’m not a big hospital kind of guy,” he said. “Ultimately, I chose Doylestown Hospital.”
At Doylestown, Darryl’s surgeon performed a prostatectomy using the da Vinci surgical system. The minimally invasive, robotic-assisted procedure removes the cancerous prostate gland and related structures. “My operation went well,” Darryl said, “and my PSA levels returned to normal. I thought I was in the clear.” But after about a year, his levels spiked again. “That’s when I was told I’d have to go for radiation,” he noted.
At the recommendation of his urologist, Darryl selected High Point Cancer Center. His treatment plan consisted of eight weeks of radiation. Like any man, Darryl had concerns regarding side effects. “The doctors at High Point were knowledgeable and I trusted them. The tech team was incredibly professional,” he said. “For a man, prostate cancer is a tough place to be. They made me feel at ease.”
Today, Darryl feels much more relaxed when it comes to PSA screenings. “It’s weird because I’ve always been a big-time worrier,” he said. “My dad would tell me I’d never live past 30. When I learned I had cancer, I went into a groove. My wife was a big support, and three of my best friends called me all the time to make sure I was okay. I got through it.” |