Jeremy Reed discovered late last year, through a routine blood test, that he probably had prostate cancer and further investigation confirmed this was the case.
In June this year, Jeremy had his prostate removed and no longer fears the cancer progressing, but the treatment was not without side effects.
Any impact felt by Mr Reed and his wife Suzanne was minimised because the cancer was diagnosed early and he quickly armed himself with enough information to make a decision about his treatment.
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READ NOWAfter a routine Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test, recommended for all men over the age of 50, Mr Reed was found to have a higher than normal result. Because he had been having regular PSA tests for years, his doctor could see a clear upward spike in the number.
Further testing, including an MRI and a biopsy, confirmed prostate cancer and Mr Reed was given a range of options, from "watch and wait" to a radical prostatectomy, the latter being his choice.
It was unlikely the cancer would go away on its own so he chose to have his prostate removed and eliminate the risk of the cancer developing and spreading into other parts of his body.
Three months later, Mr Reed is back playing tennis and itching to return to the golf course, the only obstacle being finding enough spare time.
Mr Reed said his choice of treatment was what he believed to be right for him, but that many options were available and people chose for their own reasons and based on their own case.
The surgery is not without risks and most men will have some incontinence and erectile dysfunction, which may be long or short term.
Mr Reed believes a support group could help men and their loved ones share their stories and lend an ear to others in the same situation. Any information shared is strictly confidential.