This book was spawned from three generations of prostate cancer. We’ve survived, we’re thriving, and we want to share our story. In our new book, my dad and I describe what the last two generations did to increase our chances for longevity post-surgery.
My dad, Thomas A. Butts, Jr, was diagnosed in 1994 at age 59. My Uncle Carl was diagnosed in 2005 at age 67. I was diagnosed in 2016 at age 53. My grandfather, Thomas Butts, Sr., also lived with prostate cancer, although we didn’t know until he passed from an unrelated condition. In 2022, my younger brother Karlton, at age 56, was diagnosed and treated for prostate cancer. Three men in my immediate family!
Challenges like ours arise each and every day. How do you handle them? Do you know what to ask your doctor? What prostate cancer treatment option would be best for you and your family?
Co-authors Derrick A. Butts and Thomas A. Butts, Jr
The book is perfect for review and discussion in any men’s health group. It's also enlightening for men newly diagnosed with prostate cancer, as well as men who have just begun prostate cancer treatment, spouses who are concerned about the man in their lives, those who are new to prostate cancer concerns and are just looking for insight to begin a conversation with their doctor. This is a very candid and open sharing of our experiences – pre and post prostate cancer treatment. We understand that everyone may go through a different experience as a prostate cancer survivor. Our hope is that you will be proactive in checking your prostate health and treating your prostate, should you be diagnosed with cancer.
Talking about our prostate cancer journey is our way to let others know you are not alone. There are other men in the world that may share your same anxiety, concerns, depression, focus, questions, pain, proactivity, recovery, symptoms and/or similar journey. All we are doing is beginning the discussion through our experiences on what we have done to increase our longevity.
“Work hard to save your quality of life. Your success is based on what you put into it.
I wish I had this book when I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. The book is a tool to give you knowledge of how to begin the battle you know nothing about. Need to get the story of someone who did nothing.” - Jamie Valentine, 2009 prostate cancer survivor.
“This book is impressive and impactful on so many levels. Even though it took me too long to understand the positive impact of sharing and working through this journey with someone it has been huge and I thank you. You will have a positive impact on so many.” - Stan Porter, 2015 prostate cancer survivor
“Thanks, so much for this guide for survivors and family's impacted by prostate cancer., This is vital to family health and to the wider discussion of men's health and the taboo associated with urological conditions. My family and friends truly appreciate it. God bless and God speed!!!” - Damon Jackson, Government Auditor
“Thank you, Thomas and Derrick, ingesting the gems from this book was like getting advice from a trusted family member. The both of you were so transparent and vulnerable. Thank you for the bravery it must have taken to share the things that you shared. Because you didn't sit on your story and decided to share it with world, I will go into my prostate exam emboldened and educated. I was so impacted I bought one for my brother in-law.” - Cullen Mattox, When Love Works (WLW) – co-owner
“Many thanks to you and your Father for sharing your hearts and truly private circumstances and situations to educate us brothers and black men on a very crucial life threating topic becoming more prevalent and invasive in our lives each year...Job Well Done!” - Carl Deans, Government Contractor
“Prostate Cancer A Family Affair is a powerful read regarding survivability and treatment options employed by the Butts Family. I was once informed never to avoid a health problem but to immediately address it. The book is informative, challenging and thought provoking at best, and a must read to reduce becoming a death sentence.” – Ron Patrick, Retired Minister
"I found the book to be informative, educational and inspiring from my vantage point of being a urologist of 30 years (retired) and a prostate cancer survivor & warrior for the past five years.
The book emphasizes the importance of family support in the area of survivorship. The importance of proper preparation, follow-up during and after treatment, as well as the importance of sharing with family members and friends about your diagnosis and treatment.
The book stresses the importance of being a thorough patient to receive the BEST therapy which will help to receive the most effective therapy. A personal point of interest that I share was the importance SPIRITUALITY plays in the journey of diagnosis, treatment and recovery.
I highly recommend this book for ALL to read especially since Prostate Cancer is the second most commonly occurring cancer in Black Men." - BrigGen Jackson L. Davis, III, M.D., USAF (Ret.)
"Prostate Cancer: A Family Affair is a very well researched yet highly personal account of the prostate cancer experience. With honesty and sensitivity, authors Thomas Butts and Derrick Butts detail the entire journey from diagnosis to treatment to post-treatment. It is an inspiring guide that stresses the importance of making informed choices. The authors also describe the psychological impact of prostate cancer and the value of family support. This book is an excellent resource for patients, family, friends, and survivors. Do not procrastinate an appointment with your doctor! Do not postpone buying this book!"
Melinda Ruben - Author
I very much appreciate the openness and genuineness of the authors, Misters Thomas and Derrick Butts in sharing their own intimate experiences coping with and managing their personal diagnoses with prostate cancer. They detail their family history facing this daunting specter across 3 generations of males within their own family. They compare and contrast how each man approached his own individual diagnosis, how each determined his respective treatment option (among medical technology alternatives variously available at a given point in time), and what those decisions and outcomes have since meant for them and for their loved ones. Their touching chronicle provides real life lessons learned for a 4th generation of Butts males as well as for us readers! Hopefully the Butts’ Family’s survival story provides health and wellness insights and hope for others facing prostate cancer as well as their support circles! Highly recommend this book!Anonymous - Amazon Customer
"I dedicated tis morning to reading your book. Fantastic!....I never thought about half of that stuff you talked about in the book. But when it is my turn, I will be ready. (At least I will know what to expect) Thanks!"Steven Shinholser - CSA Owner
As a African American man, I found this book to be very enlightening and encouraging. Prior to reading this, I had a very limited understanding of prostate cancer and its long term effects. This book provided insight into recovery techniques and the importance of a great support system during the healing process. Thank you for sharing this personal experience for the benefit of others.
Anonymous - Amazon Customer
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