Prostate cancer survivor Nathanial Porter

Nathanial Porter
Rome, GA

The COVID-19 virus -- and fear of infection -- is completely changing the lifestyle of Nathaniel Porter, a formerly incarcerated prostate cancer survivor. The self-described senior citizen says “Social distancing is a priority in my case,” and he tries “not to come in contact with groups of people.” The Rome, Georgia resident limits shopping and any activity that might put him in contact with people. He also “makes hygiene a high priority” as a disease preventative measure.

After serving eight years of a ten-year sentence in prison, in 2008 Porter was released to a transition center. That was when an elevated PSA reading was noted, and he was advised to seek medical advice. “I followed up on that,” and a biopsy discovered cancer. He then consulted a radiologist to discuss types of treatments. “I also interviewed other people who had the disease, and inquired about their treatment, side effects, results etc.” He chose a 12 to 14-week regimen of external radiation and at the same time began to take nutrition supplements. “I drastically changed my diet, excluding animal fat and red meat.” His PSA scores dropped. His radiologist warned the lifestyle changes that led to the lower PSA “does not mean you are cured.” He cautioned, “What you’ve done is slowed the growth of cancer,” and that “you have a greater chance of being cured.”

A nephew attending a PHEN symposium in Atlanta introduced Porter to the organization. “I have learned so much,” he said, and he appreciates the personal concern experienced, helping him be more positive about seeking treatment.