05 June 2025
Barwon Heads local Paul Saunders said a simple PSA blood test helped save his life.
He had been having regular PSA tests since he turned 50, and the result was always normal.
“In September 2020, my PSA levels jumped, and I was diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer with a Gleason score of 9, just like former US President Joe Biden,” Mr Saunders said.
He was diagnosed with the disease in 2020 following a high PSA test result.
“In December 2020, I had surgery to have my prostate gland removed. A PSMA-PET scan in April 2021 revealed cancer in several lymph nodes.
“I underwent a course of stereotactic radiotherapy, which was successful; however, later scans revealed the cancer had spread to more lymph nodes and to some bones.
“I am currently being treated with daily oral chemotherapy drugs, quarterly bone strengthening injections, and twice-yearly hormone blocking implants. These treatments come with numerous side effects that have dramatically changed my way of life.”
Mr 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 (PCFA)’s Walk for Him initiative.
Walk for Him is an Australia-wide walking challenge to raise funds for prostate cancer research, awareness initiatives and support services.
“Taking part in Walk for Him really helps raise funds and awareness of Australia’s most commonly diagnosed cancer,” he said.
"This week I’m also using the opportunity to encourage men to have a PSA test. It’s just a simple blood test, which has saved my life.”
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with one man diagnosed every 20 minutes.
Mr Saunders has already surpassed his fundraising goal of $1000 and hopes to raise more during Men’s Health Week.
“I’ve been blown away by the support that I’ve already received, and I hope to raise some more funds and awareness of prostate cancer,” he added.
Locals are encouraged to get behind Mr Saunders and join the Walk for Him movement to save lives. Participants can walk 25kms, or a distance of their choice, in solidarity with men and families impacted by prostate cancer.
PCFA CEO, Anne Savage, called on the local community to get involved.
“The Walk for Him is a great way to raise awareness and funds in the fight against Australia’s most common cancer,” she said.
“It’s a disease that takes a significant toll not just on men, but also on their partners and families, and on our community. “All funds raised during Walk for Him will support men and their families, clinical trials, prostate cancer nurses, and our nationwide telenursing service.
“With 1 in 5 Australian men likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, local action has never been so important.”
To donate to Paul, please visit: www.walkforhim.org.au/fundraisers/paulsaunders
To sign up, go to: www.walkforhim.org.au or phone PCFA on 1800 22 00 99 for support.
