One in Eight: Ron Semanick’s Prostate Cancer Journey
Ron Semanick has always been active. He exercises daily, volunteers often, and, as a CFO and CPA, he prides himself on being detail-oriented and analytical. He considered himself very healthy.
In July 2016, Ron had a routine physical and PSA test. His PSA was slightly elevated, and his urologist began testing his PSA regularly. In March 2017, he had a prostate biopsy. Out of the twelve core tissue samples, one sample showed a very small amount of prostate cancer. Ron was diagnosed with low-grade, Gleason 6 (3+3) prostate cancer that was confined to the prostate. He was placed on active surveillance, meaning regular, scheduled monitoring with PSA tests, MRI scans, and biopsies, allowing a patient to defer treatment-—and avoid side effects-—until the cancer shows signs of progression.
Initially, Ron was in disbelief. Aside from frequent bathroom trips, he felt fine, and he understood that these urinary symptoms were caused by benign enlargement of the prostate (BPH). He sought out five urologists for second opinions and thoroughly interviewed each. He also consulted the PCF website for information.
Being open about his experience, confiding in others, and giving and receiving support would become a vital part of Ron’s journey. Ron found a trusted physician by sharing his story. He told his podiatrist about his diagnosis, who connected him to a friend, leading him to a urologist in New York City.
Ron’s support network included his wife, Nancy, who accompanied him to every appointment. She kept detailed notes, as well as a clear head during challenging times. Ron also joined the Man Cave Health Virtual Support Group.
Between 2018 and 2021, he met with his urologist annually and had two additional biopsies, four MRIs, and two ultrasounds. In the summer of 2021, Ron noticed he was losing weight rapidly. Then one night in September, he was unable to urinate for approximately twelve hours.
Ron was rushed to the emergency room and was in so much pain that he laid on the bathroom floor until a care team could see him. He had a catheter inserted to drain his bladder and felt immense relief. A cystoscopy (examination of the bladder with a special camera) would confirm that his enlarged prostate was effectively cutting off urine flow.
One month later, Ron was again rushed to the emergency room and required a catheter. He was warned that removing it too soon might risk renal failure, and should he go into urinary retention for a third time, he might not survive.
His support system-—the Man Cave Health Virtual Support Group-—sprang into action and helped contact his urologist in New York. It was time to treat Ron’s prostate cancer: according to his most recent MRI, not only was his prostate enlarged, but there were more lesions compared to previous scans. Ron was relieved; he just wanted to use the bathroom “like a normal human being.” Days later, he underwent a successful robotic prostatectomy. His urologist noted that his cancer was small and confined to the prostate, and Ron only needed the catheter for another week. At long last, he was able to use the restroom normally.
After surgery, Ron gradually resumed his usual habits and was thankful to have no side effects. Because his grandfather, father, and a cousin also had prostate cancer, Ron opted to have genetic testing for inherited mutations. Fortunately, the results showed no cancer-related gene changes that could be passed on to his two sons. His PSA has remained virtually undetectable, and he continues regular monitoring to catch any possible recurrence as early as possible.
When Ron’s wife was diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2023, he and his wife’s roles reversed-—Ron became note-taker and caregiver and advocated at Nancy’s appointments. She had surgery and radiation therapy and has come through her breast cancer journey with flying colors.
Today, Ron and Nancy continue to volunteer and give back to the community. Ron finds fulfillment in sharing his prostate cancer journey and offering support to those who are beginning their own. One recent example stands out. In March, he and his family joined a three-day PSA testing and awareness event at the Lehigh Valley Auto Show in partnership with PCF, Man Cave Health, Lehigh Valley Health Network, Pocono Raceway, and many others. Ron was a tireless ambassador, helping guide 300 men through the screening process.
His advice? No matter how tough things seem, someone else is facing a greater challenge. Be grateful for each day, lean on your support system, and don’t sweat the small stuff.
PCF thanks Ron Semanick and his wife, Nancy, for sharing their journey. To read Ron’s full story in his own words, click here.
