“Up the Ladder – Finding Joy in Everyday” - The Prostate Cancer Patient Empowerment Program - PCPEP Podcast 2

The Prostate Cancer Patient Empowerment Program - PC-PEP - Podcast

Welcome to the Prostate Cancer Patient Empowerment Program (PC-PEP) Podcast! 🎙️

I’m thrilled to welcome you to this episode, where we explore the inspiring journeys of individuals navigating life after a prostate cancer diagnosis. I’m your host, a Scientist dedicated to creating evidence-based programs that empower cancer patients to take control of their health and improve their quality of life. Co-hosting with me in future episodes will be Dr. Rob Rutledge, a prostate cancer oncologist from Nova Scotia, Canada, and my co-founder of PC-PEP. Together, we’ve built programs rooted in patient feedback and rigorous research to deliver practical, life-changing tools that help people thrive—no matter the challenges they face.

Today, we’re honored to feature the story of David Buckland, whose prostate cancer diagnosis came as a complete surprise—no symptoms, no family history. Despite this unexpected journey, David chose to focus on what he could control, seeking information, prioritizing self-care, and finding strength in the supportive communities around him. Through ADT, external beam radiation, and brachytherapy, David not only completed his treatment but also finished his PhD, all while fostering meaningful connections with his sister, his mentors, and the men he met in PC-PEP.

David’s journey exemplifies the power of choosing to live fully and let your spirit shine, no matter the circumstances. In this episode, we’ll discuss how he embraced being present, living his purpose, and staying grounded for himself and those who love him. We’ll also explore how PC-PEP helped David transform his approach to life—offering consistency, camaraderie, and a sense of purpose that continues to resonate years after his treatment.

Patient engagement is a cornerstone of PC-PEP. David and I will dive into how patient feedback has continuously shaped the program, ensuring it adapts to evolving needs and challenges. This is why PC-PEP becomes, as David puts it, a kind of "Hotel California"—you come in, and you never want to leave. It’s a place where laughter, lightheartedness, and heartfelt connection meet practical guidance to help men and their families navigate cancer care and beyond.

David also shares the importance of learning how to talk about cancer in a way that doesn’t dominate your life but allows for normality, thriving, and deep, meaningful connections. Whether with friends, family, or strangers, it’s about finding balance, reclaiming life, and not letting cancer define you.

In each episode, we explore stories like David’s—real, transformative journeys that highlight PC-PEP’s eight essential pillars: pelvic floor physiotherapy, intimacy and sexuality, nutrition, aerobic and strength training, attitudinal healing, stress management with heart-rate variability tools, social support, and scientific updates. Together, these elements empower patients to live their best lives.

If you’re interested in joining the PC-PEP program, it’s available for free to anyone worldwide who speaks English. Visit PCPEP.org for more details. For those not interested in a research trial, explore CancerPEP.com, where our team tailors programs for any cancer diagnosis.

Thank you for joining us, and let’s dive into David’s inspiring story. Together, we’re not just tackling prostate cancer—we’re redefining how we live with it.

Listen to the audio version of the podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2420283/ Available on Buzzsprout and most major podcast platforms, including Apple, Google, Podcast Addict, iHeartRadio, Podcast Index, Player FM, and Spotify and more. Watch the video version on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jiUwr82WkSM Welcome, everyone!

EMPOWER YOURSELF!