About a month ago, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. I’m sharing my story today because I want to urge all men: do not ignore your health or dismiss symptoms. Make it a priority to get your annual physical.

My symptoms began two years ago and have continued with frequent trips to the bathroom at night, blood in my urine, constant fatigue, dizziness, and lightheadedness. It was my wife, Sharon, who finally said, “It’s time to see a doctor.”

At my physical, they checked my blood and blood pressure. That’s when they found I had high blood pressure and a high red blood cell count in my urine. Because of those results, they ran more tests — and that’s when they discovered my prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels were at 14. A healthy PSA level should be between 3 and 7.

That was the moment I found out I had prostate cancer.

I’m sharing this to tell other men: listen to your body. Don’t assume you’re invincible. One in four men will experience signs related to prostate issues. Early detection can make all the difference. Go get your annual physical.

Value your health. Value yourself.

– Avery Foell