November 4th 2024.
Patrick Howard, a 65-year-old father from Liverpool, received some shocking news in 2020. After speaking with a doctor over the phone about a red and itchy penis, he was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of penile cancer caused by human papillomavirus. Naturally, he and his wife, Julia, were deeply shocked by the diagnosis and the doctor recommended that Patrick undergo an operation.
At first, Patrick couldn't believe that he would have to undergo such a drastic procedure. He turned to his now-wife, Laura, and expressed his concern about possibly losing a significant portion of his penis. Laura, however, confirmed his fear and the couple knew they were in for a tough journey ahead. Despite the challenges they would face, Patrick and Laura tied the knot in 2021, determined to face this battle together.
Patrick's treatment began with surgery to remove a large portion of his penis, followed by another surgery to remove lymph nodes in his groin and pelvic area. He then underwent radiotherapy, but unfortunately, lumps continued to appear on his penis, leading to the need for chemotherapy. The treatment was described by Patrick as "heavy duty" and he even lost his hair as a result. In 2023, he underwent a second phase of treatment and has since been managing his condition, with his most recent scan showing positive results.
Despite the challenges he has faced, Patrick remains optimistic and grateful for the support of his family, especially Laura. He is also determined to raise awareness about penile cancer and HPV, as he himself had not even known about the existence of this type of cancer before his diagnosis. He encourages all men to get checked and to keep their partners informed from the beginning. He understands that men may feel embarrassed or uncomfortable discussing these issues, but he stresses the importance of communication and seeking help when needed.
Penile cancer is a rare form of cancer that mainly affects men over the age of 50. It is estimated that half of all cases are caused by specific types of HPV. In England, the HPV vaccine is offered to children between the ages of 11-13, as well as those up to the age of 25 who may have missed their vaccination. Men who have sex with men are also eligible for the vaccine. Professor Peter Johnson, NHS England's national clinical director for cancer, emphasizes the importance of early detection and encourages anyone with concerning symptoms to contact their GP. Patrick's story serves as a reminder to all of us to prioritize our health and to seek help when needed.
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