Byron Sparkman, 65, began getting his PSA levels checked about 10 years ago due to his family cancer history. His mother had breast cancer and his father had prostate cancer. During a routine checkup, Byron’s urologist found his PSA levels had started to rise, and given his family cancer history, he didn’t hesitate in taking the next step.

“When I knew mother and daddy both had it, and it’s all related, I knew I’m a target,” said Sparkman “I knew that years ago.”

After receiving a prostate cancer diagnoses, Byron took it upon himself to research every possible prostate cancer treatment option available. After completing his extensive research, Byron and his urologist decided to have the Prolaris® test done to measure the aggressiveness of his cancer to determine a personalized treatment plan.

His Prolaris identified him as a candidate for active surveillanceAfter consulting with his urologist, he decided that was the path he wanted to take. Byron was comfortable with this decision of actively watching due to the information he had based on his Prolaris score.

“I know that might bother some people, to know that the cancer is still there and ongoing. But at the same time, it might be 10 years before you have to do anything else.” Said Byron “I guess I really depend on information, PSA, Gleason, and the Prolaris test.”

Byron speaks on the importance of having support from his family throughout his prostate cancer journey and the difference it made for him. His wife and two daughters accompanied him to his doctor’s appointments and helped in making decisions. “I brought my cheerleading squad with me!” Byron would say to his urologist. 

Byron also expressed a desire to receive hereditary cancer testing to provide his children with more information on their potential cancer risks. He encourages all men to take control of their health and get all the information they need to make informed treatment decisions.

To listen to Byron Sparkman’s full story, click here:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/637015/5261917-prostate-cancer-survivor-byron-sparkman