Blood test detected Paul Saunders’ prostate cancer

Barwon Heads man Paul Saunders says a blood test saved his life.The 68-year-old said he was shocked when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2020.

Prostate cancer patient Paul Saunders will be stepping out to walk 50 kilometres during Men's Health Week (June 9-15) to raise funds for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. Picture: Brad Fleet

Barwon Heads man Paul Saunders says a blood test saved his life.

The 68-year-old said he was shocked when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2020.

“I had been having regular Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) tests since I turned 50, and the result was always normal,” he said.

“In September 2020, my PSA levels jumped, and I was diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer,” he said

That year, he underwent surgery to remove his prostate gland, but in 2021 a PET scan revealed cancer in several lymph nodes.

He then completed a course of stereotactic radiotherapy, which was successful, but later scans showed the cancer had spread.

Mr Saunders is now being treated with daily chemotherapy drugs alongside other medications, which he says come with numerous side effects that have dramatically changed his way of life.

The journey has been particularly tough on his wife and three daughters, but he credits his Christian faith for bringing him peace.

This month Mr Saunders will walk 50 km during Men’s Health Week as part of the national Walk for Him Campaign to raise funds for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.

Mr Saunders said his diagnosis came as a shock.

Since launching his fundraiser, Mr Saunders said he has been blown away by the support he’s received after reaching his initial goal of $1000 within 48 hours, which prompted him to double the target.

“I want to encourage men to get PSA tests,” He said, “it’s just a simple blood test, which has saved my life.”

Mr Saunders also urges others facing similar challenges not to give up and seek support through local groups.

“I want the walk to raise awareness and get men to listen – if you’ve been diagnosed late, it can be a matter of life and death.”

Locals are encouraged to support Mr Saunders and join the Walk for Him movement in solidarity with men and families impacted by prostate cancer, which will take place between June 9-15.

Originally published as Blood test detected Paul Saunders’ prostate cancer