Albury-Wodonga local Bob Mathews, diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2025, is inviting other men and families in the region to register their interest in starting a local peer support group.
Bob spent most of his ;ife working hard, raising a family, running country supermarkets and staying involved in his local community. Like many men, he never expected prostate cancer to become part of his story.
"I did what I thought was the right thing," Bob said. "I saw my GP each year, kept an eye on my health and had regular PSA tests that stayed stable for years."
In 2025, Bob's PSA began to rise, despite feeling completely well and having no pain or symptoms. An MRI later confirmed prostate cancer, and Bob was referred for surgery.
"I chose to stay local for treatment so I could recover close to family and avoid long travel for follow-ups," he said.
While the surgery itself went smoothly, doctors discovered the cancer had spread further than expected. As a result, nerves controlling erectile and orgasm function had to be removed, a reality Bob describes as difficult to process.
"Blokes often think their sex life is the most important thing," he said. "But it's not. My partner and I are still working through this together."
Bladder control was another major challenge following surgery. Bob credits pelvic floor training and specialist physiotherapy for helping him regain strength and confidence.
"Pads, patience and persistence were part of the process," he said. "Things do improve if you stick with it and don't lose heart."
12 months on, Bob's PSA results are positive and no further treatment is needed at this stage. Volunteering and staying connected have played a key role in his recovery.
"It's given me purpose and stopped me feeling sorry for myself," he said.
Bob is now keen to support other men in the region by exploring the creation of a local prostate cancer support group in Albury-Wodonga.
"My message to men is simple," he said. "Get tested every year and trust your medical team. And if you're going through this, you don't have to do it alone."
