Most AnCan’rs have never participated in our Advanced Cancer Care Partners Support Group. While relieved that you’re not counted in this group, you are missing a gem. The group is chock-full of compassion and practical suggestions. One of the reasons for that was our remarkable Co-moderator, Pat Washburn, GRHS.
Pat absolutely radiated love and compassion while being none too short of gumption. That’s a polite Britishism for “piss and vinegar,” defined as ‘shrewd or spirited initiative and resourcefulness. ‘ After her dear husband, Marlyn, died in 2017, 5 months after being diagnosed with breast cancer, Pat made it her mission in life to make the world aware of Male Breast Cancer.
She took Marlyn’s car, had it decorated with his photo and Male BCa awareness icons, then took to the road. North, south, east, and west she travelled – every year. People stopped her at gas stations and restaurants; she made the local newspapers and TV stations everywhere. And always it was the same message. “Men get breast cancer, too!”
The world was her oyster, and Pat took the campaign to Europe on several occasions, including Spain and Scandinavia. Her travels were not just about awareness – she visited ‘her men’ and their care partners wherever she went. She also went out of her way to meet the AnCan’rs she’d met through our Group, most recently Alexa and Brian, on her way to Houston. See who else you can recognize below…
By and large, Pat paid for all her advocacy on her own dime. A couple of the male breast cancer organizations with whom she was affiliated did not treat her well. AnCan first met Pat when she reluctantly co-moderated our now-defunct Male Breast Cancer Support Group, disembowelled by one of those groups. Reluctant because Pat thought she’d be intruding on the men, BUT they loved her. At the time of her passing, AnCan was working with Pat and Bill Harris to reinstate the group – we still hope to in Pat’s memory (anyone interested, please reach out to me at rd@ancan.org).
Except when travelling or attending one of her Grandies’ or Great Grandies’ school or sporting events, Pat was always present to support Her Majesty, The Queen of DeNile – our Care Partner Lead Moderator, Susan Lahaie. So when she failed to show at a meeting on Aug 18, we reached out. Pat had been hospitalized after fainting on her face, diagnosed with multiple pulmonary embolisms; she looked like the Lone Ranger. During her hospital stay, those clots travelled to her brain, and Pat suffered a second, fatal stroke last week, elected hospice, and died on October 2nd.
All of us at AnCan are deeply saddened and wish her entire family much comfort. Pat’s entire family doesn’t do it justice. She was truly a matriarch with 35-40 Grandies and Great-grandies. In time, Pat’s memory will always be a warm, embracing memory to all who knew her.
Pat Washburn’s obituary can be found here.
Below is the Virtual Celebration of Life for Pat Washburn, held on November 2nd, 2025
AnCan is grateful to the following sponsors for making this recording possible: Johnson and Johnson, Bayer, Novartis, Myriad Genetics, Telix, Blue Earth Diagnostics, and Foundation Medicine.
AnCan respectfully notes that it does not accept sponsored promotion. Any drugs, protocols or devices recommended in our discussion are based solely on anecdotal peer experience or clinical evidence.
AnCan cannot and does not provide medical advice. We encourage you to discuss anything you hear in our sessions with your own medical team.
AnCan reminds all Participants that Adverse Events experienced from prescribed drugs or protocols should be reported to the pharmaceutical manufacturer or the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). To do so call 1-800-332-1066 or download interactive FDA Form 3500, https://www.fda.gov/media/76299/download/.
All AnCan’s groups are free and drop-in … join us in person sometime!
Editor’s Pick: Advocating for yourself is not easy, but it’s pays off! (bj)
Topics Discussed Dealing with an inconclusive or open to interpretation letter of support from your doctor; benefit of submitting a fully developed claim; submitting a VA claim for a secondary condition; importance of putting in the work—advocating for yourself is not as easy as we make it sound; verify all the evidence you submitted for your claim was considered; TERA assessed on each claim; converting military retirement benefits to Combat Related Special Compensation (CRSC); updates on travel claims for medical appointments.
Chat
TonyFig sent a chat · 8:35 PM
what is an ACE exam?
Bob Schwartz U.S.N. Venice, FL. sent a chat · 8:37 PM
ACE=Acceptable Clinical Evidence. It is a records review only.
AnCan – Boykin sent a chat · 8:38 PM
https://www.va.gov/resources/va-claim-exam/
AnCan – Boykin sent a chat · 9:04 PM
@Mark – Well said!
Eric Baker – Lafayette, IN sent a chat · 9:04 PM
Have to go! Thank you everyone, see you next time!!
AnCan – Boykin sent a chat · 9:04 PM
Have a good evening, Eric!
Luther cowden sent a chat · 9:11 PM
Good night gentlemen, have to go.
Bruce Schrimpf sent a chat · 9:18 PM
Nice seeing all of you again, keep up the good fight!
Bruce Schrimpf sent a chat · 9:26 PM
The designations for “Armed Conflict” sound very broad indeed.
AnCan – Boykin sent a chat · 9:26 PM
veterans@ancan.org
Bob Schwartz U.S.N. Venice, FL. sent a chat · 9:26 PM
Another good mtg., have to go, see everyone next week.
AnCan – Boykin sent a chat · 9:27 PM
Have a good night, Bob!
Hi-Risk/Recurrent/Advanced PrCa Video Chat, 1/19/26
AnCan is closing out its Annual Fundraising Campaign. If you haven’t donated yet, consider the priceless value we bring . Please donate – especially if you watch our recordings and are not on our Mailchimp list. https://ancan.org/donate/
AnCan thanks the following sponsors for making this recording possible: Novartis, Johnson and Johnson, Telix, Blue Earth Diagnostics and Foundation Medicine.
Views expressed in this Recording are solely the opinion of AnCan Foundation, our Moderators and Participants.
AnCan does not accept sponsored promotion. Any drugs, protocols or devices discussed are based solely on anecdotal peer experience or clinical evidence.
AnCan cannot and does not provide medical advice. We encourage you to discuss anything you hear in our sessions with your own medical team.
AnCan reminds all Participants that Adverse Events experienced from prescribed drugs or protocols should be reported to the pharmaceutical manufacturer or the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). To do so call 1-800-332-1066 or download interactive FDA Form 3500 https://www.fda.gov/media/76299/download
All AnCan’s groups are free and drop-in … join us in person sometime! You can find out more about our 12 monthly prostate cancer meetings at https://ancan.org/prostate-cancer/ Sign up to receive a weekly Reminder/Newsletter for this Group or others at https://ancan.org/contact-us/
Join our other free and drop in groups:
Men (Only) Speaking Freely…1st & 3rd Thursdays @ 8.00 pm Eastern https://ancan.org/men-speaking-freely/
Veterans Healthcare Navigation… 1st & 3rd Tuesdays @ 8.00 pm Eastern Schmier Room https://ancan.org/veterans/
Veterans Speaking freely… 4th Tuesday @ @ 8.00 pm Eastern Schmier Room
Editor’s Pick: After 15 years, Prostate cancer recurs for one Gent; and the 2nd time, 13 years later, for another.
Topics Discussed
Newbie needs to switch to a GU MO; PrCa metastasizes after 15 yrs; singlet to doublet during RT; Pluvicto failing after 10x sessions – STEAP1 xaluritamig (AMG509 ) next but heads up!; early signs of 2nd recurrence; Eligard vs Firmagon (agonist vs antagonist LHRH); first GU med onc appointment coming up; managing hot flashes; Oxybutynin again; doc can’t get approval right so switches drug; PSMA shows Nodes may not need RT; abiraterone dosing;
Chat
Rick Davis sent: 6:10 PM
PLEASE – no mention of the Championship Game tonight. Some peeps are recording it.
Need to leave – pass my bedtime. Catch you all next week!
Bob Schwartz U.S.N. Venice, FL. sent: 7:03 PM
Another GOOD Mtg., have to go, see everyone next week.
Rick Davis sent: 7:26 PM
Xaluritamig (AMG 509) is a novel bispecific T-cell engager (TCE) immunotherapy
Bob Y — Los Angeles sent: 7:27 PM
Appreciate everyone. I, too, have to go. See you next week.
Len sent: 7:30 PM
STEAP1 (Six-Transmembrane Epithelial Antigen of the Prostate 1) is detected in prostate cancer (PCa) primarily through tissue analysis (immunohistochemistry), showing overexpression in malignant cells, and via liquid biopsies (extracellular vesicles in plasma), using methods like nanoscale flow cytometry,
AnCan–John A sent: 7:31 PM
thanks Len
Frank Ciambra sent: 7:32 PM
thank you
Rick Davis sent: 7:32 PM
Doubling time very unreliable at such low levels, Neil
dan-s sent: 7:40 PM
I also have to scoot… thanks all.
Barbara and Joe sent: 7:54 PM
are you saying lupron?
Jim Marshall, Veteran, Alexandria, VA sent: 7:55 PM
Lupron & Eligard are the exact same drug. Jim
Rick Davis sent: 7:56 PM
Are you asking about the Depot shots?
Rick Davis sent: 7:57 PM
Oxybutynin…. good for hot flashes if you are on abi
Steve L sent: 7:57 PM
Must leave at 7, Best to all.
Alain sent: 7:58 PM
See you next time guys!
Barbara and Joe sent: 7:58 PM
I was asking about a two tier therapy
Steve Lsent: 7:59 PM
no , thank you.
Alfredo in Houston, TX sent: 8:00 PM
I must disconnect shortly. Thanks to everyone; I learn something new from every session.
Rick Davis sent: 8:01 PM
ADT + ARSI = doublet. ADT can be one of several drugs.
Thomas Matica sent: 8:02 PM
Signing out. Thanks to everyone. Peace.
Len sent: 8:02 PM
Dan – Trade name for oxybutynin is Ditropan.
Barry Blomquist sent: 8:06 PM
Thanks guys!
Richard B, Silver Spring, MD sent: 8:09 PM
As much as I would like to remain I need to bow out for the evening. I can save my question until next session. Always appreciate the information on these meeting. Good night!
Hi-Risk/Recurrent/Advanced PrCa Video Chat, 1/13/26
AnCan is closing out its Annual Fundraising Campaign. If you haven’t donated yet, consider the priceless value we bring . Please donate – especially if you watch our recordings and are not on our Mailchimp list. https://ancan.org/donate/
AnCan thanks the following sponsors for making this recording possible: Novartis, Johnson and Johnson, Telix, Blue Earth Diagnostics and Foundation Medicine.
Views expressed in this Recording are solely the opinion of AnCan Foundation, our Moderators and Participants.
AnCan does not accept sponsored promotion. Any drugs, protocols or devices discussed are based solely on anecdotal peer experience or clinical evidence.
AnCan cannot and does not provide medical advice. We encourage you to discuss anything you hear in our sessions with your own medical team.
AnCan reminds all Participants that Adverse Events experienced from prescribed drugs or protocols should be reported to the pharmaceutical manufacturer or the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). To do so call 1-800-332-1066 or download interactive FDA Form 3500 https://www.fda.gov/media/76299/download
All AnCan’s groups are free and drop-in … join us in person sometime! You can find out more about our 12 monthly prostate cancer meetings at https://ancan.org/prostate-cancer/ Sign up to receive a weekly Reminder/Newsletter for this Group or others at https://ancan.org/contact-us/
Join our other free and drop in groups:
Men (Only) Speaking Freely…1st & 3rd Thursdays @ 8.00 pm Eastern https://ancan.org/men-speaking-freely/
Veterans Healthcare Navigation… 1st & 3rd Tuesdays @ 8.00 pm Eastern Schmier Room https://ancan.org/veterans/
Veterans Speaking freely… 4th Tuesday @ @ 8.00 pm Eastern Schmier Room
Editor’s Pick: Denovo metastatic BRCA2 Newbie stumps us all!
Topics Discussed
High volume denovo Mx Gent with BRCA germline can’t fiing a treatment that controls his T or his PSA; starting IMRT along with constipation; 2nd docetaxel easier with less fatigue than the first; liver returning to normal after 6x docetaxel; so back to full daro dose; T returns within 3 months of stopping 12 mo of orgovyx; BCBS turns down Prolia for -2.7 osteoprosis – did doc ask for wrong denosumab; ‘ciiling cap’ discussion; opting for new Plan Ds (drugs); Inherited Mutations discussed;
the relatively long half-life of injectable testosterone undecanoate means its effects can last for weeks, but probably not months
Jeff Marchi – San Francisco sent: 5:08 PM
has anyone had VMAT radiation?
Gary Martin sent: 5:09 PM
I had that prostate inflammation first and second round docetaxel. my oncologist did not know cause. Suggested UTI, which have the same symptom I had in round 1 and 2. I figured it was chemo working on prostate.
Julian – Houston sent: 5:13 PM
Jeff, I have had VMAT radiation.
Jeff Marchi – San Francisco sent: 5:13 PM
how well did it work? any side effects?
Jack sent: 5:14 PM
Enzalutamide blocks androgen binding which disrupts the negative feedback loop that normally supresses testosterone this leads to compensatory increases in LH and subsequent increases in testosterone
Julian – Houston sent: 5:14 PM
It worked quite well – I have been in remission for over 5 years. I am now having some radiation effects but not severe
I had insurance denial of Prolia (bone strengthening)- anyone encounter denial of Prolia?
Julian – Houston sent: 5:34 PM
Aetna no longer approves Prolia.
Larry (Alaska) sent: 5:36 PM
Bone loss is largely drivenby estradiol deficiency (just as it is in post-menopausal women). Testosterone deprivation also lowers a man’snatural estradiol. A low-dose estradiol suppement can avoid the need for bune-building agents. Agents which are expensive and bring their own set of adverese side effects.
Larry (Alaska) sent: 5:43 PM
Calcium + Magnesium:
AI Says: Why Separation Helps Competition for Absorption: High levels of calcium can block magnesium absorption in the intestines, and vice-versa. Optimizing Intake: Spacing them out (2-4 hours apart is a common suggestion) minimizes this competition, allowing your body to absorb each mineral more effectively. When It’s Okay to Take Them Together Multivitamins: If they are in smaller, balanced amounts within a multivitamin, the interaction is usually not an issue. With Food: Taking them with food can also help with absorption and reduce digestive upset.
Active Surveillance Prostate Cancer Video Chat, January 14th, 2026
AnCan is grateful to the following sponsors for making this recording possible: Bayer, Novartis, Johnson and Johnson, Myriad Genetics, Telix, and Blue Earth Diagnostics.
Active Surveillance (AS) for low-risk prostate cancer involves unique challenges compared to other treatments. This online support group is designed for men and their caregivers who are currently on or considering AS. We hold four meetings monthly, recording only the second and fourth sessions. Our discussions cover a wide range of topics, including anxiety management, biopsy experiences, and the decision-making process around continuing or discontinuing AS. Newcomers are given priority to share their experiences, so we encourage you to join us.
You can find out more about our 12 monthly prostate cancer meetings at https://ancan.org/prostate-cancer/. Sign up to receive a weekly Reminder/Newsletter for this Group or others at https://ancan.org/contact-us/.
Chat Log:
Phil-Toronto 8:05 PM
Prostate Cancer Journal Club for Patients tomorrow at 9:00am ” can Micro U/S replace MRI for PCa Diagnosis Matt Cooperberg Laurence Klotz meded.ucsf.edu
Martin 8:13 PM
Brian, my email is martinuthe14@gmail.com. I would love to hear about your acqua ablation. Thx!
BJ 8:24 PM
Hi guys anyone have a link for the mentioned webinar tomorrow?
Phil-Toronto 8:25 PM
meded.ucsf.edu. If you google the link it should take you to the registration for the webinar tomorrow
Phil-Toronto 8:36 PM
aquablation vs. HOLEP https://www.perplexity.ai/search/80078b6b-bae2-4382-96d6-4035a1f29ba0
BJ 8:40 PM
Dan P: You mentioned a book at the beginning. if you can put the name of it on the chat. Ty
AnCan – Rick 8:50 PM
Dr. Sanjay Punnen https://sylvester-doctors.umiamihealth.org/provider/sanoj-punnen/525775
BJ 9:01 PM
Need to drop off. Thanks all for sharing so much.
AnCan – Rick 9:06 PM
Helfand webinar on AS on AnCan https://ancan.org/webinar-active-surveillance-beyond-with-dr-brian-helfand/
AnCan – Rick 9:13 PM
@RogerNorris…. PROSTATE, not prostrate.
AnCan is grateful to the following sponsors for making this recording possible: Novartis, Johnson and Johnson, Telix, Blue Earth Diagnostics, and Foundation Medicine.
WELCOME all to our newly recorded Low/Intermediate Prostate Cancer Group. To receive notice when new recordings are posted, either follow us on this YouTube Channel or sign up to our Blog via https://ancan.org/contact-us/ – check New Blog box.
AnCan respectfully notes that it does not accept sponsored promotion. Any drugs, protocols or devices recommended in our discussions are based solely on anecdotal peer experience or clinical evidence.
AnCan cannot and does not provide medical advice. We encourage you to discuss anything you hear in our sessions with your own medical team.
AnCan reminds all Participants that Adverse Events experienced from prescribed drugs or protocols should be reported to the pharmaceutical manufacturer or the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). To do so call 1-800-332-1066 or download interactive FDA Form 3500 https://www.fda.gov/media/76299/download
AnCan’s Prostate Cancer Forum is back (https://ancan.org/forums). If you’d like to comment on anything you see in our Recordings or read in our Reminders, just sign up and go right ahead. You can also click on the Forum icon at the top right of the webpage.
All AnCan’s groups are free and drop-in … join us in person sometime!
Editor’s Pick: Using DECIPHER genomic testing to assess cancer agressiveness. (bj)
Topics Discussed Cancer discovery following an aquablation procedure for an enlarged prostate; post-procedure PSA and MRI testing to monitor remaining cancer; comparing transrectal and transperineal biopsy safety and access; importance of consulting genitourinary oncologists at major centers; using specialists like Dr. Epstein for pathology second opinions; weighing active surveillance against the risk of cancer progression; discussion of MR LINAC, proton, and photon radiation technologies; using PSMA PET scans to detect potential lymph node involvement; selecting high-volume urban medical centers over smaller clinics; using DECIPHER genomic testing to assess cancer agressiveness.
Chat
Stuart sent a chat · 8:01 PM
Dr. Ming Zhou – Mt Sinai Health System Email: Ming.zhou@mountsinai.org Telephone: (212)241-8881
Stuart sent a chat · 8:02 PM
Dr. Jonathan Epstein – https://advanceduropathology.com/ Tel:516-760-2037 jepstein@imppllc.com
Steve in Malaysia sent a chat · 8:39 PM
What is an AI MRI?
Steve in Malaysia sent a chat · 8:42 PM
ok 👍
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 8:48 PM
Proton vs Photon https://ascopubs.org/doi/abs/10.1200/JCO.23.01604?md5=efb3c3159aa147415d4f2ded3334efa3&cid=DM16707&bid=358786211
Gil Solomon sent a chat · 8:52 PM
Have to sign off for dinner.
Steve in Malaysia sent a chat · 8:57 PM
I need to finish packing for trip from Penang to California shortly so would appreciate some quick questions.
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 9:07 PM
Check our AnCan video with Dr. Scholz on Prostate Snatchers. https://ancan.org/the-prostate-snatchers-still-lurking/
Steve sent a chat · 9:14 PM
Carter
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 9:25 PM
Steve – CHEK2 may in fact make you more sensitive to RT. Check with Dr. Kivel
Steve sent a chat · 9:28 PM
Thanks Rick!
David in Portland, OR sent a chat · 9:39 PM
“Most mutations in DNA repair genes such as BRCA1/2, PALB2, CHEK2, and RAD50/51 mutations do not increase radiation-induced cancers or radiation toxicity. BRCA1/2, PALB2, CHEK2, and RAD50/51 mutations should not affect radiation therapy decisions.” Source: https://www.redjournal.org/article/S0360-3016(19)33530-8/fulltext I also communicated with Joanne Wiedhaas last year directly about this topic, and she confirmed the above quote from the International Journal of Radiation Oncology.
Govinda – India sent a chat · 9:41 PM
Daily dosage of Viagra was 5 mg daily. Of course this varies from person to person.
Steve in Malaysia sent a chat · 9:42 PM
I’m going to sign off… thanks guys
David in Portland, OR sent a chat · 9:42 PM
5 milligrams/day of tadalafil/Cialis gives me significant heartburn. Anybody else have this problem? Any fixes other than stopping the Cialis?
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 9:51 PM
Interesting David…. the general opinion is that HRR mutations make you more sensitive to RT toxicity. I think there’s a fair amount of literature.
Stuart sent a chat · 9:56 PM
Dr James Hu – Weill Cornell
Stuart sent a chat · 9:56 PM
Dr Nagar – MSKCC
Stuart sent a chat · 9:57 PM
or Michael J. Zelefsky, MD – NYU Langone
Hi-Risk/Recurrent/Advanced PrCa Video Chat, 1/5/26
HAPPY NEW YEAR to all AnCan’s YouTube viewers. AnCan is closing out its Annual Fundraising Campaign. If you haven’t donated yet, consider the priceless value we bring . Please donate – especially if you watch our recordings and are not on our Mailchimp list. https://ancan.org/donate/
AnCan thanks the following sponsors for making this recording possible: Novartis, Johnson and Johnson, Telix, Blue Earth Diagnostics and Foundation Medicine.
Views expressed in this Recording are solely the opinion of AnCan Foundation, our Moderators and Participants.
AnCan does not accept sponsored promotion. Any drugs, protocols or devices discussed are based solely on anecdotal peer experience or clinical evidence.
AnCan cannot and does not provide medical advice. We encourage you to discuss anything you hear in our sessions with your own medical team.
AnCan reminds all Participants that Adverse Events experienced from prescribed drugs or protocols should be reported to the pharmaceutical manufacturer or the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). To do so call 1-800-332-1066 or download interactive FDA Form 3500 https://www.fda.gov/media/76299/download
All AnCan’s groups are free and drop-in … join us in person sometime! You can find out more about our 12 monthly prostate cancer meetings at https://ancan.org/prostate-cancer/ Sign up to receive a weekly Reminder/Newsletter for this Group or others at https://ancan.org/contact-us/
Join our other free and drop in groups:
Men (Only) Speaking Freely…1st & 3rd Thursdays @ 8.00 pm Eastern https://ancan.org/men-speaking-freely/
Veterans Healthcare Navigation… 1st & 3rd Tuesdays @ 8.00 pm Eastern Schmier Room https://ancan.org/veterans/
Veterans Speaking freely… 4th Tuesday @ @ 8.00 pm Eastern Schmier Room
HEADSUP – another long session!
Editor’s Pick:Like London buses, topics come in clusters this week – post-surgery recurrence, and monotherapy daro
Topics Discussed
Recurrence 3+ months post-surgery is confusing given medical reports; sitting on hands post 2017 RRP has dire cinsequences; more rapid recurrence requires PSMA scan for younger Gent; low T post treatment raises question whether to force it castrate; oxybutinin manages hot sweats… ARSI makes no difference; Gent considers going from doublet to mono; recently diagnosed denovo Mx man learns he’s 5+4; should he keep one Pluvicto session in reserve?; get a DEXA scan before starting bone stregthener; can a layman read their PSMA scan?; is he ready for mono daro?; should a FAP (Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitor) scan be considered?; PSMA needed as PSA rises post IHT; connections between prostate and thyroid cancer; Gent resumes doublet but doesn’t watch PSA – more concerned with duration?!?
Chat
RJ Smith (Seattle) sent: 6:17 PM
Hey Bob! Infusion tomorrow, so today is a good day. Sucked on a lot of ice for round #2 as you recommended, so mouth/taste was fine. Proctitis (mostly damage from ton of radiation) is pain in the a**, though–quite a bit of pain this time, but no pain today, so I’ll take it!
Bayer Patient Assistance Foundation could provide free Nubeqa (darolutamide) if you qualify. https://www.patientassistance.bayer.us/en/ I am on my third year in the program.
House guest, must go. Thanks to AnCan and Rick D for referral to Dr. Guancial in Sarasota. Had great visit last week. ADT working, PSA May 4.7, today .01, no side effects, Testro 50. Orgovyx working
Larry Schuller – Alaska sent: 7:06 PM
Orgovyx/relugolix pills and Firmagon/degalarix injections are both LHRH/GnRH ANTAgonists. In my opinion, superior to LHRH agonists, Lupron/leuprolide. Bot inferior (again, my opinion and personal experience) to trans-dermal estradiol (see the web site “estradiolinitiative.org” for more information or cantact me directly at ljschulr@alaska.net.
Bob Schwartz U.S.N. Venice, FL. sent: 7:07 PM
Jeffrey Green, you can also get the Embr Wave at Amazon (my wife got mine there).
Jim Marshall, Veteran, Alexandria, VA sent: 7:08 PM
Family commitment have to sign off…Happy New Year everyone
Jim Marshall, Veteran, Alexandria, VA sent: 7:36 PM
My solution for HOT FLASHES at night has been is even if the room is 55, I have a 12″ fan blowing directly on my face. This is done year round.
Paul Schomer sent: 7:50 PM
I am not, no, Jim
RJ Smith (Seattle) sent: 7:50 PM
NTD–will update next week on how Chemo#3 goes (docetaxel infusion tomorrow, fingers crossed).
Thomas Matica sent: 8:07 PM
Leaving the meeting. Thanks to everyone. Happy New Year.
Jim Marshall, Veteran, Alexandria, VA sent: 8:11 PM
Eric – When you are fatigued, go out and exericse despite the body telling you NOT!!!!
S. Datta sent: 8:14 PM
FAPI (Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitor)
Larry Schuller – Alaska sent: 8:18 PM
It is not crazy to want your testosterone back. Intermittent ADT can do that and it is showing promise as a tactic. Bipolar ADT (BAT) is a little crazier, but has some promise also. If you want to go wild, check out Dr Robert Gatenby’s work at Moffit in Florida. Intersesting stuff there.
Jay Mills Chatanooga- Though I didn’t follow the whole conversation, I heard you say something to the effect of, “I may have mets all over the place, in addition to what shows on PSMA.”
Barry Blomquist sent: 8:28 PM
Have to jump – thanks everyone. Happy New Year
Eric Curtis sent: 8:30 PM
Thanks all – gotta go
Jeffrey Green sent: 8:31 PM
Got to start winding down here. Thanks for all you guys. See you next time.
Len sent: 8:34 PM
Source is AI: Bidirectional Risk: Men diagnosed with thyroid cancer have a roughly 28% to 30% higher risk of later being diagnosed with prostate cancer compared to the general population. Conversely, men with prostate cancer are more likely to be diagnosed with thyroid cancer.
Robert sent: 8:35 PM
Thanks Len. I read the same thing.
dan-s sent: 8:49 PM
Thanks all… another good session. Have to sign off for the evening. Happy New Year…
Jay T in MN sent: 8:50 PM
My hospital was charging the insurance company about $20,000.
gary peters sent: 8:50 PM
I did not know this about thyroid C and PC. Thank you.
Jon McPhee Toronto sent: 8:50 PM
Do a PSA test once a month. Cheap. PSMA/PET is expensive and harder to get.
Jay T in MN sent: 8:51 PM
I “only” had to pay $1000 for my portion of PET PMSA
AnCan is grateful to the following sponsors for making this recording possible: Johnson and Johnson, Bayer, Novartis, Myriad Genetics, Telix, Blue Earth Diagnostics, and Foundation Medicine.
AnCan respectfully notes that it does not accept sponsored promotion. Any drugs, protocols or devices recommended in our discussion are based solely on anecdotal peer experience or clinical evidence.
AnCan cannot and does not provide medical advice. We encourage you to discuss anything you hear in our sessions with your own medical team.
AnCan reminds all Participants that Adverse Events experienced from prescribed drugs or protocols should be reported to the pharmaceutical manufacturer or the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). To do so call 1-800-332-1066 or download interactive FDA Form 3500, https://www.fda.gov/media/76299/download/.
All AnCan’s groups are free and drop-in … join us in person sometime!
Editor’s Pick: C&P exams when you are 100% permanent and total. (bj)
Topics Discussed Establishing service connection is the hardest part of submitting a claim; C&P (compensation & pension) exams when you are 100% permanent and total; Community Care authorization needed to use Beneficiary Travel Self Service System (BTSSS); working with a VA C&P exam contractor; requesting IRS Form 1095-B from the VA; VA continues to reduce the backlog of claims; a couple of the members reported recently losing a friend and condolences were shared; be wary of unsolicited requests to consolidate your medical records.
Chat
AnCan – Boykin sent a chat · 5:33 PM
Beneficiary Travel Self Service System (BTSSS)
AnCan – Boykin sent a chat · 5:36 PM
BTSSS Portal https://dvagov-btsss.dynamics365portals.us/
TonyFig sent a chat · 5:48 PM
Does the VA send out tax forms for disability payments or are they only available electronically?
Mark WV sent a chat · 5:50 PM
There is no tax forms as your disability is tax free
TonyFig sent a chat · 5:51 PM
What about healthcare. this is from a VA newsletter Get your 2025 VA health care coverage tax form this January Your 1095-B IRS tax form shows proof that you had VA health coverage. Throughout January and no later than January 31, 2026, all VA health care beneficiaries will be able to electronically access their 2025 1095-B forms via their VA.gov account. Please note that VA will no longer automatically mail 1095-Bs to all Veterans. To request a paper copy by mail, please contact us at 877-222-VETS (8387) Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET.
Bruce Schrimpf sent a chat · 6:14 PM
Great discussion all! Happy New Year!
AnCan – Boykin sent a chat · 6:18 PM
Good night Bruce!
TonyFig sent a chat · 6:21 PM
VA-FSC Vendor File Request Form (10091) This form is used for claim electronic payment
TonyFig sent a chat · 6:22 PM
This can be completed online
Mark WV sent a chat · 6:28 PM
Good Nite
AnCan – Boykin sent a chat · 6:28 PM
Good night Mark!
Bruce Schrimpf sent a chat · 6:50 PM
Kaiser thing is VERY suspucious!
Bob Schwartz U.S.N. Venice, FL. sent a chat · 6:52 PM
This sounds like a SCAM!!!!
AnCan – Boykin sent a chat · 6:58 PM
ancan.org/veterans
AnCan – Boykin sent a chat · 6:59 PM
veterans@ancan.org
Low/Intermediate PCa Video Chat, December 22, 2025
Low/Intermediate PCa Video Chat, December 22, 2025
AnCan is grateful to the following sponsors for making this recording possible: Bayer, Novartis, Johnson and Johnson, Myriad Genetics, Telix, Blue Earth Diagnostics, and Foundation Medicine.
WELCOME all to our newly recorded Low/Intermediate Prostate Cancer Group. To receive notice when new recordings are posted, either follow us on this YouTube Channel or sign up to our Blog via https://ancan.org/contact-us/ – check New Blog box.
AnCan respectfully notes that it does not accept sponsored promotion. Any drugs, protocols or devices recommended in our discussions are based solely on anecdotal peer experience or clinical evidence.
AnCan cannot and does not provide medical advice. We encourage you to discuss anything you hear in our sessions with your own medical team.
AnCan reminds all Participants that Adverse Events experienced from prescribed drugs or protocols should be reported to the pharmaceutical manufacturer or the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). To do so call 1-800-332-1066 or download interactive FDA Form 3500 https://www.fda.gov/media/76299/download
AnCan’s Prostate Cancer Forum is back (https://ancan.org/forums). If you’d like to comment on anything you see in our Recordings or read in our Reminders, just sign up and go right ahead. You can also click on the Forum icon at the top right of the webpage.
All AnCan’s groups are free and drop-in … join us in person sometime!
Editor’s Pick: Importance of getting your treatment at a NCCN Member Institution. (bj)
Topics Discussed New quarterly support group for inherited mutations (e.g., BRCA, Lynch syndrome); eligibility for active surveillance despite a high-intermediate decipher score (0.57) and specific biopsy results (Gleason 3+4 with 10% grade 4); importance of obtaining a second opinion on biospy slides; importance of getting your treatment at a National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Member Institution versus other medical institutions; nutrional and lifestyle approaches (e.g., fasting, ketogenic diets) before radiation; MRI-guided radiation (SBRT) and the experience of having fiducials and barriers implanted under local anesthesia; management of side effects like erectile dysfunction (ED) and the benefits of heavy exercise during long-term treatment; challenges faced by patients living abroad; concerns about inguinal hernia mesh repair complicating a future prostatectomy; lack of definitive ways to prevent prostate cancer; various theories regarding calcium levels.
Chat
AnCan – Stuart sent a chat · 8:02 PM
Dr. Ming Zhou Mount Sinai Health System Department of Pathology, Box 1194 Annenberg Bldg. 15th FL 1468 Madison Ave New York, NY 10029 Email: Ming.zhou@mountsinai.org Telephone: (212)241-8881
AnCan – Stuart sent a chat · 8:03 PM
Dr. Jonathan Epstein – https://advanceduropathology.com/ Tel:516-760-2037 jepstein@imppllc.com
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 8:12 PM
877 582 7011
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 8:13 PM
GoTo Technical Help
David K – Jacksonville FL sent a chat · 8:18 PM
aquablation and PAE: I’ll be asking if anyone has had an aquablation or a Prostate Artery Embolization. – david K
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 8:38 PM
We are looking at a spckof cancer here…. half a millimeter
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 8:39 PM
*speck of
Steve in Malaysia sent a chat · 8:41 PM
Does anyone have contact info for support staff of Dr Epstein as I’ve been trying to get slides to Stanford
Steve in Malaysia sent a chat · 8:41 PM
He has them now
Steve in Malaysia sent a chat · 8:43 PM
I did email him a few days ago but no answer
Frank H sent a chat · 8:43 PM
Try ask for Mary jones
Steve in Malaysia sent a chat · 8:44 PM
Thanks Frank, do you have her email?
AnCan Bill sent a chat · 8:44 PM
Steve, you can check his website: https://advanceduropathology.com/
AnCan Bill sent a chat · 8:44 PM
Frank did say he was on vacation for the holidays.
Steve in Malaysia sent a chat · 8:45 PM
My issue is more that I need to get my slides from him to Stanford soon as I’m going to US mid Jan
Frank H sent a chat · 8:47 PM
I will need to check with her myself tomorrow
Greg sent a chat · 9:04 PM
When does Medicare stop paying for Telehealth?
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 9:05 PM
Right around now, we beleive.
Greg sent a chat · 9:06 PM
For just prostate consults or across the board visits?
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 9:06 PM
Check on the internet, Greg
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 9:06 PM
Across tehe board.
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 9:16 PM
Cancer & Fasting UCSF https://osher.ucsf.edu/patient-care/integrative-medicine-resources/cancer-and-nutrition/faq/cancer-and-fasting-calorie-restriction
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 9:17 PM
QiL fasting during chemo https://www.vumedi.com/video/esmo-2023-insights-effects-of-short-term-fasting-on-quality-of-life-as-an-add-on-option-during-chemo/?token=aea546f6-9f4e-41f5-98fd-3a2f2c6f6add&link_data=eyJiZXRfbWFpbF9pdGVtX2lkIjoyMDAwODM0MjQsImJldF9tYWlsX2FjdGlvbiI6ImJjIn0%3A1ryYHH%3A2ho3Ayar__FqeFstiJEPOgl60cTKcylOggsW5v-BNKQ&mc_cid=af2eade45f&mc_eid=838454d636
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 9:18 PM
Meta study from Kishan on ADT duration https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/article-abstract/2841671?guestAccessKey=d03b0908-90c8-497e-85cd-aebb43ec2a63&utm_medium=email&utm_source=postup_jn&utm_campaign=article_alert-jamaoncology&utm_content=olf-tfl_&utm_term=112025&mc_cid=0fa42784f6&mc_eid=838454d636
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 9:19 PM
Gil – also Spratt is on the metastudy.
Greg sent a chat · 9:20 PM
Which guys at Stanford?
Gil Solomon sent a chat · 9:34 PM
Thanks. I did see the ADT duration study and diminishing returns after 6 months
Gil Solomon sent a chat · 9:36 PM
Apalutamide study HEATWAVE and it is all comers regardless of cell type.
Gil Solomon sent a chat · 9:37 PM
I’m going to sign off for dinner. Thanks all.
AnCan Bill sent a chat · 9:37 PM
Have a good night Gil
Steve in Malaysia sent a chat · 9:40 PM
Thanks for info Gil
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 9:43 PM
But we know that f you are Lumin A, apalutamide does not work. Balance trial https://ascopost.com/issues/october-25-2025/biomarker-driven-apalutamide-therapy-for-patients-with-recurrent-prostate-cancer/?mc_cid=17ff95d283&mc_eid=838454d636
Steve in Malaysia sent a chat · 9:47 PM
How long after last PSA read (was same time as MRI) should I get next one?
Steve in Malaysia sent a chat · 9:47 PM
That as Oct 12
Steve in Malaysia sent a chat · 9:47 PM
*was
AnCan Bill sent a chat · 9:50 PM
Steve, you’re 2 and a half months out from the last one but you don’t have an urgent need to get PSA right now unless your doctor thinks you should.
Greg sent a chat · 9:51 PM
Will there be another email for donation?
AnCan – rick sent a chat · 9:51 PM
bfranklin@ancan.org
AnCan is grateful to the following sponsors for making this recording possible: Johnson and Johnson, Bayer, Novartis, Myriad Genetics, Telix, Blue Earth Diagnostics, and Foundation Medicine.
AnCan respectfully notes that it does not accept sponsored promotion. Any drugs, protocols or devices recommended in our discussion are based solely on anecdotal peer experience or clinical evidence.
AnCan cannot and does not provide medical advice. We encourage you to discuss anything you hear in our sessions with your own medical team.
AnCan reminds all Participants that Adverse Events experienced from prescribed drugs or protocols should be reported to the pharmaceutical manufacturer or the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). To do so call 1-800-332-1066 or download interactive FDA Form 3500, https://www.fda.gov/media/76299/download/.
All AnCan’s groups are free and drop-in … join us in person sometime!
Editor’s Pick: Considerations when sequeencing multiple VA claims. (bj)
Topics Discussed Pursuing Topic Exposure Radiation Exposure (TERA); claim denied for service connection; discussion about the Beneficiary Travel Self-Service System (BTSSS); filing a claim for radiation cystitis secondary to prostate cancer; submitting an intent to file by calling 1-800-827-1000 or submitting a VA Form 21-0966; sequencing multiple VA claims; be wary of phishing scams or imposters requesting your medical records.
Chat
AnCan – Boykin sent a chat · 8:43 PM
BTSSS = Beneficiary Travel Self-Service System System
AnCan – Boykin sent a chat · 8:45 PM
BTSSS Website https://dvagov-btsss.dynamics365portals.us/
Hank Zajic Springfield VA sent a chat · 8:56 PM
gotta run. Thank you Jim for hosting and Happy Holidays everyone! Hank
Jim Marshall, Veteran, Alexandria, VA sent a chat · 8:58 PM
Marshall-James@comcast.net.
Jim Marshall, Veteran, Alexandria, VA sent a chat · 8:59 PM
CaptJim@AnCan.Org
AnCan – Boykin sent a chat · 9:22 PM
I’m your long lost relative as well
AnCan – Boykin sent a chat · 9:26 PM
Happy Holidays everyone!
By and large, Pat paid for all her advocacy on her own dime. A couple of the male breast cancer organizations with whom she was affiliated did not treat her well. AnCan first met Pat when she reluctantly co-moderated our now-defunct Male Breast Cancer Support Group, disembowelled by one of those groups. Reluctant because Pat thought she’d be intruding on the men, BUT they loved her. At the time of her passing, AnCan was working with Pat and Bill Harris to reinstate the group – we still hope to in Pat’s memory (anyone interested, please reach out to me at rd@ancan.org).
