193: Richard and Pauline Story – A prostate cancer journey, 75 and back to preop function, it is possible!

193: Richard and Pauline Story – A prostate cancer journey, 75 and back to preop function, it is possible!

In this candid and heartfelt episode, Melissa chats with Richard and Pauline, a 75-year-old couple who generously share their personal experience with prostate cancer—from diagnosis to recovery. They open up about the emotional and physical aspects of his journey, including the moment a routine PSA test led to further investigation and, eventually, robotic prostate surgery.

This conversation shines a light on topics that are often left unspoken: erectile dysfunction after surgery, managing incontinence, and maintaining penis health in the face of cancer treatment. Richard discusses the treatments he tried, including injections, penis pumps, oral medications, and a new nasal spray for ED—and what worked best for him.

They also talk about the role of partners during recovery. Richard speaks warmly about the support he received from his wife Pauline, and how her own journey with vaginal discomfort was improved with expert help from the vagina whisperer Kate.

Alongside medical insights, this episode explores the financial realities of treatment, highlights the importance of pre-surgical preparation (including pelvic floor exercises), and makes a compelling case for early PSA screening—particularly for men over 40 or those with a family history of prostate cancer.

Key Takeaways:

  • Why PSA testing and early detection matter
  • New nasal spray for Erectile Dysfunction- Spontan
  • How pelvic floor physiotherapy helps with recovery and incontinence
  • Treatment options for erectile dysfunction post-surgery
  • The benefits of maintaining penis health after prostate cancer
  • The impact of a supportive partner and professional team
  • Federal and State government support available for incontinence products

Resources & Links:

Listen & Subscribe

  • If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.

Connect With Us

We love hearing from real people navigating penile health—just like Richard. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.

Email: admin@melissahadleybarrett.com Website: www.rshealth.com.au

Websites:

https://rshealth.com.au/

https://makehardeasy.com.au

https://melissahadleybarrett.com

http://prost.com.au/

Facebook:

https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/

https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/

TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett

YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett

Linkedin:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/

TEDX

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA

Episoder(207)

55. “Patrick Lumbroso Trilogy”: Part 2 Sex after Prostate Cancer: A man with a plan is unstoppable

55. “Patrick Lumbroso Trilogy”: Part 2 Sex after Prostate Cancer: A man with a plan is unstoppable

SEX after Prostate Cancer is CHALLENGING!   In this episode, we reacquaint you with Men’s Health Psychologist Patrick Lumbroso (RIP) who we first introduced in Episode 4, in our first ‘’pop up’’ edition. and then again in Episode 50. Today’s post-humous chat focuses on how men feel when it comes to all things penile rehabilitation and when things don’t work when trying to get it up! From injections to foreplay and penile implant surgery- Patrick holds NOTHING back!! Patrick was a man on a mission to educate the world and his phrase Á MAN WITH A PLAN IS UNSTOPPABLE” also applies to himself. Please remember that the information provided needs contexct – it was recorded in April 2017 and so some things have changed including outcomes for post-surgical erectile dysfunction. (Listen to Urologist Dr David Dangerfield, Episode 46 for restoring sexual function with Nerve Grafting)!    Patrick, who founded ‘’ManFocus Clinic’’ in Sydney Australia was passionate about providing quality rehabilitation and counseling service for men and their partners, especially those undergoing treatment for prostate cancer. Knowing the potential side effects of surgery – including erectile and urinary dysfunction - could greatly impact a man’s self-esteem, Patrick was earnest in his goals to address the big gaps seen in male mental health. Patrick’s primary focus was in education and support for men experiencing any form of sexual dysfunction, and although he did not complete his PHD due to his premature passing, his work is founding and explores new frontiers in men’s health.    In 2017 Dr Jo interviewed Patrick over 3 hours and episode 55 is the secind of 3 episodes bringing Patrick’s experience and desire to assist others to be better prepared and more proactive in their recovery. Knowing his death from a brain tumour was imminent, Patrick did not hold back. Brace yourself for this raw account…..    Patrick’s wife Donna and children, Joel and Rebecca have agreed to share this body of work, that remains as relevant today as when it was recorded. We thank them for their generosity.    Furthermore,  Links to  Patrick Lumbroso’s body of work:    Linked-In: Patrick Lumbroso- Sexual Rehabilitation Therapist Paper – see email attachment  You Tube:  ''Sex After Prostate Cancer ‘with Patrick Lumbroso  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq-PemuG0qmMZ0E0IeageWA (14 videos Patrick felt were essential knowledge for men with Prostate Cancer) E-Book - Sex, Life & Intimacy after Prostate Cancer    Links relevant to International Prostate Cancer Awareness Month info include:  www.pcfa.org.au https://pcfa.org.au/get-involved/events/find-an-event/ 3https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/08/31/a-proclamation-on-national-prostate-cancer-awareness-month-2021/  ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ http://prost.com.au/   Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/

12 Okt 202139min

54. “Paul the Poet”: Clarity in the chaos of Cancer!

54. “Paul the Poet”: Clarity in the chaos of Cancer!

For today's episode, we talk with Paul.   We will start the episode from a poem written by Paul... and then the elaboration of how this poem came to be.   From losing his father, to knowing he has cancer, Paul was not able to have time to really process everything happening around him - until he needed anxiety meds. And eventually, started to think of taking his own life.   And then... healing began.   To join us and Paul through this process, just click the PLAY button below.   https://rshealth.com.au/tpp-54-paul-the-poet-clarity-in-the-chaos/ ---------- If you feel The Penis Project is valuable to you then, please review and subscribe as this will ensure more people get to hear what we have to say. ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ http://prost.com.au/   Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

5 Okt 202149min

53. ‘’Rod Popcorn’’ When you’re a grower, not a shower (and penile injections)!!

53. ‘’Rod Popcorn’’ When you’re a grower, not a shower (and penile injections)!!

For today’s episode, we talk to Rod. To know why we call him Rod Popcorn, just hit the play button below. 😉  Rod will share with us his story about ‘staph’ and why he had to stay in the hospital for more than 4 weeks – which happened after his surgery. He will also provide an insight on how he is doing with penile injections, his continence, the importance of pelvic floor exercises, and a lot more interesting stories from a man who is a grower and not a shower!   We also hope that Rod’s story will help you understand the importance of not pushing yourself too much, after surgery.   Enjoy listening!   ---------- If you feel The Penis Project is valuable to you then, please review and subscribe as this will ensure more people get to hear what we have to say. ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ http://prost.com.au/   Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

28 Sep 202136min

52. Meet ‘’Brendan’’, his stories of FOFO and Soakademia in Prostate Cancer

52. Meet ‘’Brendan’’, his stories of FOFO and Soakademia in Prostate Cancer

For today’s episode, we talk to Brendan – who has just recently undergone surgery a few weeks ago, 3.5 weeks to be exact.   Brandon talks about his journey from when he figured out his PSA levels, to going through Covid and worry, to coping with the loss of someone close who succumbed to prostate cancer, and to finally making a choice towards facing the inevitable C.   He also explains what FOFO is and this cool term ‘soak-ademia’ that we believe some or even most of you might have experienced.   Have a listen to this raw and fresh story that will surely resonate with those who have gone the same predicament... and to those who are about to face the big C, Brandon’s story will help you figure out the first steps.   Enjoy! And if you have a story you would like to share or a topic you want us to discuss, please feel free to fill out this from >>  ---------- If you feel The Penis Project is valuable to you then, please review and subscribe as this will ensure more people get to hear what we have to say. ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ http://prost.com.au/   Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

21 Sep 202141min

51. Our first anniversary! Look back with “’Melissa & Dr Jo”

51. Our first anniversary! Look back with “’Melissa & Dr Jo”

Woot, woot! Our 51st episode is also our anniversary episode. We've been together for 50 episodes, 51 weeks, and 365 days. Thank you for joining and growing with us!  This week we have had a trip down memory lane in more ways than one, the first 2 mins has terrible sound…. If you have been listening since the beginning you will remember the days when the sound was terrible and you had to keep changing the volume to hear! So my apologies, not sure what happened but the podcast Gremlin has attacked. Rest assured it is for 2 min only then the sound gets better. That’s what happens when a nurse is responsible for the tech!!   For this episode, we look back on how we improved(mostly) from our first day of recording mishaps, tech challenges to becoming pro (we hope we are now!) podcasters to be able to provide you with world class information. We will discuss what episodes moved us and inspired us to go further. And a little bit of the stories peppered in   PLUS a little gift from us for you to enjoy. ;)     Have a listen now through the button below and again, our sincerest thanks to all of you who have been with us, and will be with us still, through the journey of sharing information and advocating for ALL THINGS PENIS and more.   If you feel The Penis Project is valuable to you then, please review and subscribe as this will ensure more people get to hear what we have to say. ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ http://prost.com.au/   Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

15 Sep 202135min

50. “Patrick Lumbroso Trilogy“: Part 1 Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

50. “Patrick Lumbroso Trilogy“: Part 1 Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

September is the international month of Prostate Cancer Awareness and in this episode, we reacquaint you with Men’s Health Psychologist Patrick Lumbroso (RIP) who we first introduced in Episode 4, in our first ‘’pop up’’ edition. Patrick, who founded ‘’ManFocus Clinic’’ in Sydney Australia was passionate about providing a quality rehabilitation and counselling service for men and their partners, especially those undergoing treatment for Prostate Cancer. Knowing the potential side effects of surgery – including erectile and urinary dysfunction - could greatly impact on a man’s self-esteem, Patrick was earnest in his goals to address the big gaps seen in male mental health. Patrick’s primary focus was in education and support for men experiencing any form of sexual dysfunction, and although he did not complete his PHD due to his premature passing, his work is founding and explores new frontiers in men’s health. In 2017, Dr Jo interviewed Patrick over 3 hours and episode 50 is the first of 3 episodes bringing Patrick’s experience and desire to assist others to be better prepared and more proactive in their recovery. Knowing his death from a brain tumour was imminent, Patrick did not hold back. Brace yourself for this raw account….. Patrick’s wife Donna and children, Joel and Rebecca, have agreed to share this body of work, that remains as relevant today as when it was recorded. We thank them for their generosity. Furthermore, here are the links to Patrick Lumbroso's works:  Patrick Lumbroso's Linkedin Sex After Prostate Cancer'with Patrick Lumbroso -  There are 14 videos Patrick felt were essential knowledge for men with Prostate Cancer Free E-Book - Sex, Life & Intimacy after Prostate Cancer ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ http://prost.com.au/   Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

7 Sep 202150min

49. In depth about Peyronie’s disease with “’Dr Shane LaBianca’’

49. In depth about Peyronie’s disease with “’Dr Shane LaBianca’’

For today’s episode, we will talk about Peyronies Disease in more detail with the Dick Doc, Dr. Shane La Bianca.     Peyronies disease is an abnormal scarring process within the penis. Though easily curable when diagnosed early, most of the time, it is overlooked or not discussed even with GPs or with the special people in our lives that the after effects worsen.    If you would like to know what are the possible causes of Peyronies, the different available treatments to help with this disease, the issue on lengthening, and all interesting information including how losing weight can help with penile ‘length’, click the play button below!   Remember, any changes in your penis (or in your kids’), it is best to see the specialist ASAP.    Enjoy listening!  ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ http://prost.com.au/   Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

31 Aug 202133min

48. “Pablo”- Stickability in Prostate Cancer. Encouragement for all men

48. “Pablo”- Stickability in Prostate Cancer. Encouragement for all men

For today’s episode, we talk to Pablo.   Pablo is what we can describe as someone who has an amazing stickability – being able to stick to the best practices and keeping tabs of anything he does to know what works or not.   At first, Pablo didn’t have it all good – no, not all. He suffered from leakage during play. Not just a minor leakage issue but a 200-250ml leakage.   What did he do to change this and enjoy minimal-to-no leakage?   Click the PLAY button below to know it all! 😉 ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ http://prost.com.au/   Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

24 Aug 202128min

Populært innen Helse

fastlegen
lydartikler-fra-aftenposten
psykodrama
rss-gukild-johaug
hvordan-har-du-det-mann
leger-om-livet
relasjonspodden-med-dora-thorhallsdottir-kjersti-idem
rss-garne-damer
morten-ramm-lar-kakla-ga-til-du-sovner
foreldreradet
fryktlos
baarli-og-benjamin-gar-i-terapi
hormonelle-frida
klimaks
bak-fasaden-en-reise-i-livet-med-sykepleier-ine
hjernesterk
rss-podkasten-lopeklubben
helsetipspodden
rss-baarli-og-benjamin-gar-i-terapi
rss-sunn-okonomi