Hi, I'm Melanie Beitzel. My family was shocked and overwhelmed when, in July of 1998, my father, age 63, was diagnosed with prostate cancer, PSA=10, Gleason Score= 8.
      We knew very little about this disease, so I immediately accessed the internet and began researching. I was astonished by the wealth of information available at my fingertips!
      The first thing we learned was that there were many treatment options available and many differing opinions about these options. I joined several online prostate cancer support groups and was touched by the outpouring of support from men battling PCa, PCa survivors, and their loved ones.
      Some of the best advice we received was to become well-informed and to find the best doctor. We did just that.
      Today my Dad is doing just great. He continues to have regular PSA tests, and his latest was 0.00. He feels like a very lucky man, and I feel like a very lucky daughter!>The information we gathered from doctors, Pca websites and members of internet support groups helped my dad in the decision-making process. He chose to have a radical prostatectomy, and it was performed in August of 1998.
      Furthermore, I've made some important, lasting friendships with some of my internet supporters - including the creator of this poster, Dave Grundy - and I'm thankful for that.