204: 5 year anniversary episode: Kirk’s Story: Early PSA Testing, Surgery at 59, and Getting Back to Life (Fast!)

204: 5 year anniversary episode: Kirk’s Story: Early PSA Testing, Surgery at 59, and Getting Back to Life (Fast!)

In this Episode which marks the 5th anniversary of the Penis Project Podcast, Kate and Melissa, practitioners from Restorative Health Clinic talk to Kirk (59), who shares his very recent journey with prostate cancer — from vigilant PSA screening due to a strong family history, through biopsy and robotic prostatectomy(Gleason 9), to an unusually swift return of continence and erections (yes, really… at 5 weeks!). We chat about why a good GP relationship matters, common myths (no, PSA screening is not a finger-up-the-bum), and practical rehab steps that set you up for the best outcome. We also touch on the challenges recent Medicare telehealth changes pose for rural men and why community conversations save lives.

Key Takeaways:

  • PSA screening saves lives: It’s a blood test. Many men still believe screening means a rectal exam — that misconception stops blokes from testing.
  • Early and regular checks matter, especially with family history. Kirk and his GP were “on it,” which likely changed his trajectory.
  • Rehab starts before surgery: Pre-op pelvic floor coaching and early, structured penile rehab support faster continence and sexual recovery.
  • Expectations matter: Being clear about how important sex is to you helps the team tailor a plan (medications, devices, or injections) so intimacy continues post-treatment.
  • Modern prostate cancer care is not what it was 20 years ago — minimally invasive surgery, targeted radiation, and better side-effect profiles.

Episode Highlights

  • Family history matters: Kirk, a 59-year-old anaesthetist, always knew prostate cancer was a “when, not if.” Vigilant PSA screening caught it early.
  • PSA test = blood test: Many men still mistakenly think screening means a rectal exam — this myth stops blokes from testing.
  • Gleason upgrade: Biopsy showed 7, but post-surgery pathology was 9 — reinforcing why early surgery was lifesaving.
  • GPs are gold: A trusted GP relationship ensures timely checks and continuity of care.
  • Rehab starts before surgery: Pelvic floor exercises and penile rehab education gave Kirk the best start.
  • Fast recovery: At 5 weeks post-op, Kirk is dry, pad-free, and already regaining erectile function with support strategies.
  • Community conversations: Kirk shared his diagnosis with ice-hockey teammates — most had no idea PSA was just a blood test.
  • Rural barriers: Medicare telehealth changes risk limiting access for country men as of November 1st 2025 — highlighting the importance of policy that supports remote care.
  • Positive outlook: Kirk’s story proves recovery can be quicker than many expect, and modern treatments offer far better outcomes than in the past.
  • Take-home message: Don’t wait for symptoms — get your PSA blood test done and talk to your mates about it.

Shareable quotes

  • “Good news — PSA screening is a blood test. That’s it.”
  • “Pre-hab matters: start pelvic floor and penile rehab before surgery.”
  • “Sex after prostate cancer is absolutely possible — the toolkit is bigger and better than ever.”
  • “Men will talk footy all day — let’s talk our health the same way.”

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. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.

Email: admin@rshealth.com.au

Websites:

https://rshealth.com.au/ All genders

https://makehardeasy.com.au

https://melissahadleybarrett.com

Instagram:

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

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissahadleybarrett

TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett

Facebook:

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

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

Linkedin:

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

TEDX

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

Avsnitt(206)

86. Meet RJ Windham; Author and a Prostate Cancer Adventurer

86. Meet RJ Windham; Author and a Prostate Cancer Adventurer

Today, we speak with RJ Windham – an author, a survivor, and a Prostate Cancer adventurer.   RJ is a survivor of various incidents – from a hit and run, to terrorist bombings and then, to Prostate Cancer.   It was in 2019 when RJ was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer after a 4K blood test. It wasn’t smooth sailing because, in the middle of his treatment, the pandemic hit, and he had to switch doctors due to health insurance issues.   He likes to call his journey an adventure. Why do you ask? He will tell you.   Now, RJ is not only a survivor but also an advocate who tells you that YOU can survive. Plus, he has written a book that lets you Unlock the Keys to Better Sex Without Prostate.  To listen to RJ’s story, just click the button below. Please make sure to read the full show notes for the resources.     Resources:  RJ Windham Website and his books: https://www.rjwindham.com    If you have questions of your own or would like to suggest a topic, please don't hesitate to share them with us by sending it to support@rshealth.com.au. ----- 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

26 Maj 202239min

85. Fit For Life: Prepared for Prostate Cancer

85. Fit For Life: Prepared for Prostate Cancer

Just a heads-up, the audio has a bit of issues but the discussions are still clear. We will make sure in our next podcasts to figure out the issue causing this. If anyone of you have an idea why this happens, we would be thankful for your thoughts and solutions!    For today’s episode, we will talk with Kanga who had his Radical Prostatectomy at 50 years old.   Kanga, with a family history of cancer, already braced himself... so when his results came out, he was somewhat ready. Fit for life, which is his mantra, prepared him for Prostate Cancer.  He will share with us how his journey was – from the time his catheter was removed to monitoring his continence, to erections, using challenge doses, injections, fitness, side-effects, and more.   Have fun listening to Kanga and his positive experience!    If you have questions of your own or would like to suggest a topic, please don't hesitate to share them with us by sending it to support@rshealth.com.au. ----- 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

18 Maj 202235min

84. The Man Walk; Walk, Talk, Support

84. The Man Walk; Walk, Talk, Support

Did you know that 1/3 of Australian men do not have blokes to talk to?  So today, we will talk with Mark who will share about The Man Walk, where you can find blokes to walk and talk with.   The Man Walk started when Mark, with the help of his wife, wanted to change his routine. He started a daily morning walk from 6 to 7 AM. And along the way, a few men blokes and friends heard about what Mark was doing that they too joined him...   Because of this, The Man Walk was born.   Come along and listen to what The Man Walk is, what it does, and how amazingly simple it is but builds massive impact!   Mark shared with us how side-by-side discussions (as in when you walk) help make conversations lighter for men, testimonials from the blokes, and how you can join or initiate Man Walks too!   To see all the links related to The Man Walk, please read the full shownotes.   Helpful Links:   https://themanwalk.com.au/  https://www.facebook.com/themanwalkwalktalksupport    Have fun listening! And if you have questions of your own, please don't hesitate to share them with us, send to support@rshealth.com.au. ----- 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

11 Maj 202236min

83. Nerve Grafts for Erectile Function Post-Prostatectomy: A Patient’s Perspective

83. Nerve Grafts for Erectile Function Post-Prostatectomy: A Patient’s Perspective

For today’s episode, we talk to Tony who at 49, underwent nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy.   Tony learned about nerve grafting whilst listening to the radio. And almost immediately, he knew this was what he needed for his penis. So together with his wife, he booked an appointment and the rest is history.   Tony will share with you his nerve grafting journey – from the pros to the cons. He will talk about a lot of things like:   That One major side effect that came with the surgery (numbness, nope not of the penis)  How long did his recovery take (rule: no touch for 9 months)   Who qualifies for the surgery  The costs  His surgery timeline and procedure; and,  His intent to not offend anyone above 70   Have a listen to this honest and raw account of Tony. We know you’ll be able to learn a lot.   For the links mentioned, please see below:     https://www.europeanurology.com/article/S0302-2838(19)30265-9/fulltext  https://www.cucare.com.au/erectile-restoration-surgery/  ----- 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 Maj 202245min

82: Melissa Answers Your Questions 2

82: Melissa Answers Your Questions 2

Since a lot of you loved listening to our previous Question and Answer from Melissa,  we're sharing with you part 2!   In Melissa's most recent webinar, she received quite a lot of interesting questions we know you will be able to relate to.  Some of the questions are:   Having had a non-nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy 24 years ago is there any chance in getting an erection back? Why is the time of day you take viagra (etc ) important? If Cialis lasts longer, would it be better to use than Viagra to get the longer nitrous oxide benefits? Have fun listening! And if you have questions of your own, please don't hesitate to share them with us, send to support@rshealth.com.au. ------ ----- 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

27 Apr 202225min

81. Glen and his series of unfortunate penis events | Important lessons to share

81. Glen and his series of unfortunate penis events | Important lessons to share

For today’s episode, we will be listening to Glen and his recount of events that brought him here to us today. It will be an episode that will teach us a very important lesson on penis size expectations.   Melissa has long shared that one of the most Googled searched questions is penis size. And perhaps most men listening here has that exact question themselves. Nope, for this episode, we won’t talk about that but we will listen to a story that began from a penis size comment.   The first time Glen was struck with a penis size issue was when a young girlfriend commented that his penis was small... which continued to adult girlfriends. These instances affected Glen and urged him to find some solutions.   One of those ‘so-called' solutions costed him almost 20k Canadian $, a ‘Franken-penis’, and a further 3.5k.   The conclusion after talking to Melissa? His penis size is normal!   Have a listen to this episode and learn the most important lessons; make sure a problem really exists, communicate, and find the right persons to consult with.   We can’t thank Glen enough for coming to the podcast and sharing his story with the hope that men are made aware and for them learn from his experience.   Listen through the button below.     ----- 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 Apr 202234min

80. Meet Ken Bezant- A Giant of Prostate Cancer & an introduction to PCAHELP

80. Meet Ken Bezant- A Giant of Prostate Cancer & an introduction to PCAHELP

In this week’s episode, we have an inspirational chat with Ken Bezant, Prostate Cancer survivor who has taken things to the next level. Not only has he achieved the trifecta of cancer clearance, continence control, and Erectile function following treatment for Prostate Cancer - but Ken has also been giving back.   Initially, a member in the audience of a PCFA support group, Ken put his hand up to take over the reins when a new leader was needed.   Eight years on, Ken is still delivering monthly support meetings with special guests, workshops, and even a coffee morning for men and their partners affected by Prostate Cancer. Ken’s groups always pull a crowd because he is innovative, broad-minded, and happy to share his personal story by sharing his experiences and opening the door to others.   Ken’s journey was not without its challenges and he openly discusses his decision to receive a Penile implant to improve his sexual health. This proved to be a winner and Ken has never looked back…   As you will learn, Ken is also looking into the future and his most recent achievement has been to set up PCaHELP, a not-for-profit organisation that fills even more gaps for support.   Ken is a dynamo and we are thrilled to bring his story to you today.   Listen & learn - Ken is a giant in Prostate cancer survivorship!   Link: www.pcahelp.org   ----- 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

6 Apr 202241min

79. The Trifecta  cancer gone ‘tick”, continent “tick”, sexual function “tick” - 4 years post Prostatecomy

79. The Trifecta cancer gone ‘tick”, continent “tick”, sexual function “tick” - 4 years post Prostatecomy

"4 Years on”   In this episode, we speak to Ron who you may remember back in episode 24 when he generously shared his story of “Fighting the Black Dog”. At this time he talked about the 3 boxes he wanted to tick: Get rid of cancer To be continent Address sexual function.   Today, he will share with us his way back to sexual function   The Big Bang (wow moment) happened in August 2021, the first-time lovemaking was possible post-surgery without an injection.   How did he get here?   He also had developed a “bend” and this was also fixed.   Listen NOW to find out more. This episode is full of useful tips and is an honest brave account of life post Prostatectomy.   ----- 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

29 Mars 202246min

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