(Continued) ... at Baylor
University Medical Center, believes it's important to convey upfront to
the patient his reason for entering their private hospital room. "It is
my experience with prostate cancer," Jay adds, "that gives me the
credibility to be in that hospital room". Jay as of December 1st, 2009,
is a 10 year survivor of prostate cancer. He decided to volunteer for
three reasons. First, he has been on the receiving end of a prostate
cancer diagnosis and subsequent procedure. He remembers the shock and
anxiety that arises when facing such life-changing events. Secondly,
Jay modestly states that because of his experience he "may actually
convey something useful" to the patient and caregiver whether it be
through his words, his attitude, or his mere presence as a cancer free
individual. Jay also says that he has a keen sense that "someone
upstairs isn't finished with me yet".
The simple message that Jay
attempts to pass along to prostate cancer survivors is that, "Yes,
prostate cancer is serious stuff," yet, "prostate cancer doesn't have
to cramp your style indefinitely." Jay knows a lot about this as his
life demonstrates. Jay on a regular basis also swings a hammer and
climbs ladders when he volunteers for Habitat for Humanity. Jay also
wants the patient to know they are a survivor and that their doctor "who literally knows them inside and out" is their best resource for information.
