James Davenport doesn’t ask “why me” about his experience with prostate cancer.
“I know why,” the Smyrna resident says. “Someone like me has to go through this because I’ll talk very openly to other men about it. Too many men fail to see a doctor for routine check-ups, and open conversation can change that.”
James’ primary care doctor had been monitoring his prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level for several years as part of his annual physical. It had risen slightly, as is common as men age. When James’ PSA went above 4 in June 2024, his doctor referred him to Georgia Urology, where he was evaluated by Dr. Bert Chen. A biopsy revealed prostate cancer.
Navigating treatment
Dr. Chen explained two treatment options: radiation or prostate removal surgery. He referred James to his colleague, Dr. Warren Oberle, a urologist and robotic surgeon skilled in prostatectomy. James also met with a radiation specialist.
After exploring both treatment options, James chose to have his prostate removed. At 55, he felt the more aggressive treatment was best for him. But he was concerned about the timing. He and his wife had a vacation to France planned for that July. To his relief, Dr. Oberle encouraged them to take the trip and have a great time.
“That was the most reassuring thing I could hear,” James said. “Knowing that the treatment could wait a little gave me confidence that the cancer wasn’t so aggressive.”
In October 2024, James underwent a successful prostatectomy with Dr. Oberle at Northside Hospital Atlanta, and his recovery was smooth. He returned to work after four weeks, regained full bladder control after six weeks and did not lose sexual function.
James’ PSA remained undetectable for six months following surgery. Then it began to tick up slightly, indicating there could be residual cancer cells. Rather than monitor his PSA level, James chose to undergo radiation.
Every weekday for six weeks, James received radiation under the care of radiation oncologist Dr. Peter Possert. James went directly to work after radiation each day, as the side effects were so minimal that none of his coworkers knew radiation was part of his daily routine.
James also received androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), which was administered by injection. The goal was to decrease testosterone to near zero while radiation destroyed any remaining cancer cells. James experienced side effects including hot flashes, moodiness, increased emotionality and weight gain.
“I sure have greater empathy now for women in menopause,” he shared.
The side effects disappeared after treatment ended.
James completed treatment in October 2025, and his PSA remains undetectable. He now has quarterly PSA testing, which will eventually change to every six months and then annually as long as his PSA remains stable.
A strong support network
James was fortunate to have a strong support network throughout his treatment.
His wife’s career is in the oncology field, and her medical knowledge was invaluable. Their five children called him every day, and James’ mother and mother-in-law were devoted prayer warriors. His friends also provided a steady rotation of walking partners during his recovery.
“I couldn’t believe that many people cared enough to put themselves out there to help me,” James reflected.
He also has nothing but praise for Northside.
“I did not have a single bad experience in this journey,” he said. “That is a testament to great people and quality care. Everyone from receptionists to nurses and doctors delivered cheerful greetings and professional care. I always felt like I was in great hands.”
Sharing his story with other men
Now, James says his life is as good as or better than it was before cancer.
“Cancer is scary, for sure," he said. "But I want to live. There are a lot of lives that I want to be a part of for a lot longer. This is what motivated me to get the best treatment and care. I believe I have gotten that at Northside.”
As he navigates his survivorship journey, James’ new mission is to engage, educate and encourage men to stay on top of their health and have their PSA tested. Part of that is his growing collection of provocative prostate cancer survivor T-shirts designed to spark conversation.
“If people talked more openly to one another about what is going on in their lives, we would all be better off!” he said. “If you want to keep living, you have to stay on top of your health. You need to know what’s going on in your body.”
LEARN MORE ABOUT PROSTATE CANCER CARE AT NORTHSIDE.
*The health story shared here is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Patients should consult with their own physician before making medical decisions.
