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Article Category: PeopleCare

GregCare

Cancer survivor shares story to advocate for prostate screening

Published on September 22, 2023

Last updated 11:01 AM September 22, 2023

Greg Rodgers with his wife ringing the cancer bell

Picture a big swath of land out in West Georgia. It’s a little wild and a little cultivated, but it’s well cared for thanks to the Rodgers.

“My wife and I are blessed to live on this land,” Greg Rodgers said. “God instructs us to be good stewards of the land and we are dedicated to doing just that. We’re always mowing, planting and tending to fallen trees.”

Photo collage of Greg Rodgers on a tractor and his land

Much like their acreage, Greg sees his body as something that deserves to be maintained with care. And he’s an advocate that other men do the same. Seeing a doctor regularly and getting screened can help identify conditions earlier so they’re more treatable. Greg learned that from his personal experience with prostate cancer, and the team at Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center who helped him overcome it.

“It’s not so much my story as the story of the professionals at Wellstar—they’re tremendous people,” he said.

The right tests for an accurate diagnosis

Prostate health is not something to ignore. Greg understands this now after a routine PSA test—a simple blood test—came back abnormal in 2020. When PSA levels are checked regularly and rise over time, they can be a sign of prostate cancer.

Because of his elevated PSA, Greg began monitoring his prostate health and eventually, connected with Wellstar Urologist Dr. Richard Jadick in LaGrange. Dr. Jadick performed a UroNav fusion biopsy to investigate his climbing PSA. During the procedure, an MRI helps accurately target the biopsy location. This biopsy has a low false negative rate, meaning the results are more trustworthy than in the past. Greg’s results came back positive for prostate cancer.

Pursuing personalized, expert care

Because every case of prostate cancer is different, there are a range of options for treating it, from active surveillance (monitoring with imaging) to advanced treatments like robotic surgery and targeted radiation therapy that have fewer side effects than traditional treatments. 

Greg and Dr. Jadick discussed several options, but before Greg made any decisions, Dr. Jadick recommended he see Dr. Robert Taylor, a Wellstar radiation oncologist. 

Greg remembers having reservations about radiation therapy. But once he arrived for the appointment, he felt immediately at ease. “Dr. Taylor is a quiet, confident person with a kind smile,” he said. “He was really good at explaining everything, going through studies and the different procedures. He’s so methodical, so good at answering questions and so patient.”

The option they settled on was a high dose of targeted radiation aimed at the prostate during a shorter treatment course (20 days versus 44). A newer technology called SpaceOAR Hydrogel would separate the rectum from the prostate during treatment, preventing unnecessary radiation exposure—and side effects.

“When it comes to choosing the right treatment, everything is a balance between the risk level and a variety of other personal factors,” Dr. Taylor said. “We want to provide treatment that is the least disruptive and most effective.”

To be sure this was the best plan for Greg, Dr. Taylor requested a second opinion from Mayo Clinic. Wellstar experts have a direct connection to Mayo Clinic specialists through its Mayo Clinic Care Network membership. Wellstar physicians and patients can access eConsults—virtual second opinions—at no additional cost to patients.

Some additional imaging was recommended, which validated Dr. Taylor’s treatment plan. Greg moved forward with his cancer treatment with pure confidence.

They never treated me like a number—rather like I was the only person around. The availability of having such a tremendous facility as the Wellstar Enoch Callaway Cancer Center right here in LaGrange, Georgia was such a blessing. I want people to know that while there are fine facilities elsewhere, I believe this center is among the best.

- Greg Rodgers

Prostate Cancer Survivor

Customized care for a full schedule

Because Greg is heavily involved in his family’s steel fabrication business, he had a shorter radiation course. He began at 8:30 each morning, got to work quickly and never had to miss a day of work.

“With a team of experts completely focused on Greg, we were able to customize care because we understood his situation intimately,” Dr. Taylor said.

Greg said he felt the utmost kindness from all the team members throughout his treatment and that “they never treated me like a number—rather like I was the only person around. The availability of having such a tremendous facility as the Wellstar Enoch Callaway Cancer Center right here in LaGrange, Georgia was such a blessing,” he continued. “I want people to know that while there are fine facilities elsewhere, I believe this center is among the best.”

Honoring his care team

There’s a tradition for patients who complete radiation therapy to ring a bell. When it was Greg’s turn for this memorable moment, he showed up with an armful of roses.

“If you look at the rose, the beauty of the flower distracts you from the thorns on the stem,” Greg told his care team as he handed each a flower. “Your treatment, care, professionalism and kindness served to distract me from the reason for why I was here.”

Greg hopes roses will always remind his Wellstar team of how empathetic, supportive and important they are.

After handing out the flowers, Greg rang the bell. No more prostate cancer.

Photo collage of Greg Rodgers with nurses and family
Pictured on left: Greg presents a rose to Mekissa Strickland, a radiation oncology medical assistant. Middle picture: Sarah Hersey, nurse navigator; Deidre and Greg Rodgers; Kathy Derry, RN, radiation therapy nurse; and Tonya McWaters, clinical administrative assistant, radiation therapy. Pictured on right: Greg hugs Holly Stanelle, radiation therapist.

Advocating for prostate cancer screening

Along with tending the land and working in the family business, Greg has one more role now: advocating for prostate health. He wants men to know that treating prostate cancer is an “easier fix” when it’s found early. That’s why men should meet with their doctor for regular check-ups and PSA blood tests.

“Prostate cancer is a wide spectrum of disease, and sometimes treatment is the best thing to do,” Dr. Taylor said. “The goal is to get screened, assess the risk level and have a conversation with your doctor.”

Take charge of your health with a team of prostate specialists near you.

Tags

West Georgia Medical Center Richard Harris Jadick Robert B Taylor Jr
Urology - 1555 Doctors Drive PeopleCare Cancer Care Mens Health
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Team Up with Wellstar to Fight These Men’s Health Issues

If you’re a sports fan, you’re probably glued to every game, rooting for your team and analyzing every play. But are you as vigilant with your own health? 

In addition to knowing your health stats—those important numbers like blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar—you should also watch for health conditions that more commonly impact men. 

An annual physical gives you the opportunity to ask your clinician questions about your health, and you’ll get a few quick, crucial health screenings that can catch issues early and put you on track for staying well.

“See your primary care provider at least once a year to check in on your well-being and stay up to date on essential screenings you may need,” said Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Facia Dew. “Your provider will customize care based on your health history, age and other factors to help you feel your best.”

Take action against illness

Some illnesses are more likely to affect men than women, so men should be especially mindful about taking steps to prevent these issues:

Lung cancer

Men are slightly more likely to get lung cancer—the lifetime risk for men is 1 in 17, while it’s 1 in 18 for women, according to the American Cancer Society. Black men are about 12% more likely to develop lung cancer compared to white men. Decrease your risk of lung cancer by avoiding smoking.

With a low-dose CT scan of the chest, it only takes a few seconds to check in on your lung health. An order from your healthcare professional is required for a lung cancer screening. Contact your Wellstar primary care team or a pulmonologist to discuss if screening is right for you.

Parkinson’s disease

Men are 1.5 times more likely than women to have Parkinson’s disease, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation. Wellstar neurologists and neurosurgeons are experts in helping patients manage this condition.

Kidney stones

The risk of kidney stones is about 11% in men and 9% in women, according to the National Kidney Foundation. You can reduce your risk of kidney stones by staying hydrated and eating a low-sugar, low-sodium diet. Your care team can help you evaluate your risk factors, including personal and family history, obesity and being 40 or older. 

Prostate cancer

While all men are at risk for prostate cancer, Black men are more likely to get prostate cancer and are more commonly affected at younger ages. Men who are 50 or older should ask their doctor about testing, and Black men should discuss testing with their care team at age 45. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, you should also consider screenings at a younger age, and your healthcare professional will discuss options with you. 

Form healthy habits

According to Wellstar Urologist Dr. Scott Miller, men need to stay active and stay away from smoking. He also noted a few lifestyle changes that are sometimes overlooked can make a difference in how you feel.

“What’s often neglected is a full and consistent night’s sleep,” Dr. Miller said. “And keep stress under control—too much stress can negatively impact our immune systems.” 

Find a primary care professional near you.

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Your Body’s Check Engine Light—Don’t Wait for It to Flash

By Wellstar Urologist Dr. Scott Miller

Most men pride themselves on being low maintenance. If nothing’s obviously wrong, why bother going to the doctor? But here’s the thing—just like your car, your body can be quietly heading toward trouble long before any warning lights come on.

Still, many men will change their brake pads before they book a physical. We rotate our tires, change the oil and keep up with maintenance because we know neglect leads to breakdowns. But when it comes to our health, many of us take a “wait and see” approach that can backfire.

At Wellstar, we see the impact of that delay all too often: men arriving with advanced prostate cancer, uncontrolled blood pressure or kidney problems that could have been caught early. These aren’t rare cases. They are common consequences of skipping routine check-ups.

The reality is that many of the biggest threats to men’s health—prostate cancer, heart disease, low testosterone and diabetes—often start with no symptoms at all. You might feel fine while a problem is quietly progressing. A simple prostate-specific antigen blood test, a blood pressure check or lab work to monitor cholesterol and glucose can give us the early warning signs we need to keep you healthy and active.

We also know that men tend to avoid talking about certain issues, including urinary symptoms, sexual performance, energy levels or even stress and burnout. These aren’t simply part of “getting older.” They’re signs that something might be off, and they’re usually treatable.

At Wellstar, we make it easy to have those conversations. Our men’s health specialists take the time to listen and offer care that’s rooted in science, respect and discretion. No awkwardness, no judgment—just answers, guidance and a path forward.

Remember that staying healthy isn’t only about you. It’s about showing up for the people who count on you—your partner, your kids, your family and friends, your team at work. When you take care of yourself, you’re protecting everything and everyone you care about.

Quick tune-up tips for men’s health

  • Get seven to eight hours of sleep consistently.
  • Aim for 30 minutes of movement most days.
  • Limit processed foods and added sugar.
  • Reduce alcohol and quit smoking if you use tobacco.
  • Don’t ignore new symptoms, especially related to urination, energy or mood.
  • Make your annual check-up non-negotiable.

Even if you feel fine today, investing in your health now can prevent bigger problems tomorrow. And when you partner with a trusted, local team like Wellstar, you’re not checking a box—you’re taking control of your future.

Ready for a tune-up?

Visit wellstar.org/primarycare to find a location near you and book your appointment online. Find a urologist near you.

 

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Hey Man, Make Health Your Habit

If you’re a sports fan, you probably know your stats.

Like how NBA Hall of Famer Dominique Wilkins remains undefeated in Atlanta Hawks history for points (23,292) and ranks second in team history in steals (1,245). But there are a few, even more important numbers you should know off the top of your head: your health stats.

Do you know your blood pressure? What about your low-density lipoproteins? Maybe you can clock an eight-minute mile or bench press 250 pounds, but do you know your hemoglobin A1C?

Men are less likely than women to see their healthcare team once a year. Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Tameka Byrd said it’s crucial men stay up to date on preventative care and essential screenings.

“Yearly physicals can catch illnesses before they start and prevent health issues from getting worse,” Dr. Byrd said. “Your primary care provider will tailor a screening plan depending on your age, health history and other factors so you can proactive with your wellness.”

Getting and staying healthy doesn’t just help us feel better—it ensures we can be there for those we care about too.

“It’s also for loved ones—spouses, partners, children and parents. We’re not only here for us. We’re here for our friends and family,” said Wellstar Urologist Dr. Scott Miller. “The best thing you can do for those you care for is to take care of yourself.”

Stats all men should know to stay in the game include:

Body mass index (BMI)

BMI determines whether you have a healthy body weight and categorizes obesity levels. A recommended BMI range is between 18.5 to 25.

Low-density (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol

This blood test measures cholesterol levels and should be part of your wellness routine starting in your 20s. For men 20 or older, healthy LDL levels should be under 100 milligrams per deciliter and aim to keep your HDL above 40.

Blood pressure

Your clinician will take your blood pressure during your regular visit, but you can also find blood pressure checking stations at many pharmacies or buy your own device to use at home. Blood pressure under 120/80 is considered ideal.

Hemoglobin A1C 

This metric measures whether or not you have healthy blood sugar. If you are diabetic, you should check your A1C every three months.

Prostate-specific antigen test (PSA)

Men who are 50 or older should discuss prostate cancer testing with their clinician, according to the American Cancer Society. Men at a higher risk, including Black men and those who had a brother or father diagnosed with cancer before age 65, should ask their care team about testing at age 45. Patients who had more than one close relative with prostate cancer at an early age should have this conversation with their clinician when they’re 40. The Wellstar Prostate Health Program evaluates and treats people with a higher risk for prostate conditions. 

An abnormal PSA result could be an indication of prostate cancer. For men in their 40s and 50s, a PSA score higher than 2.5 nanograms per milliliter is considered abnormal, and men in their 60s should have a PSA score of 4.0 nanograms per milliliter or less.

Along with staying up to date on those health stats, men should also be getting regular colorectal cancer screenings. The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk for colorectal cancer screening get checked regularly beginning at age 45. Screenings should continue through age 75, and after that patients can discuss their personal risk and history with their clinician.

Your Wellstar primary care team will partner with you in creating a personalized health plan. Find a provider near you and book online or locate an Augusta area provider.

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