In 2018, Patrick Howard, a retiree living in Liverpool with his 59-year-old wife, Laura, underwent prostate surgery after a prostate cancer diagnosis. However, a greater challenge lay ahead. In 4/2020, he noticed itching and redness on his penis. Six months later, doctors confirmed an aggressive form of penile cancer caused by the HPV virus. It was stage four. Facing the prospect of a penectomy, he joked with his wife, "Surely they're not going to cut it off, are they?"

That, unfortunately, was exactly what happened. Doctors recommended a penectomy. About two-thirds of his penis, approximately 4 inches, was removed. Despite the surgery, tumors continued to appear, necessitating radiation therapy and two rounds of chemotherapy.

Howard and his wife skiing in the Alps. Photo: Independent

Howard and his wife skiing in the Alps. Photo: Independent

Doctors gave him 12 months to live, but Howard defied the prognosis. On September 20th, International Penile Cancer Awareness Day, he marked nearly two years without further treatment.

"I only had about a 7% chance of survival," Howard recalled. "I remember thinking, 'Someone has to win the lottery, right?' Now, the doctors say I've defied the less-than-a-year prognosis. You either fight it or you surrender to it."

Now, he only needs checkups every six months. Despite the surgery, Howard can still urinate and have sex normally. He hopes his story encourages other men to be more open about this sensitive topic.

According to the UK National Health Service (NHS), penile cancer is rare, mostly affecting men over 50, with about half the cases linked to HPV.

Since his last chemotherapy treatment in 10/2023, Howard’s cancer has shown no signs of progression. His doctor describes his health as "exceeding expectations." Howard and Laura, who have six children between them, have embarked on "amazing adventures," traveling across Italy, skiing in the Alps, and exploring islands and countryside.

"We're seizing every moment, enjoying life," he shared. "Although I still experience some side effects like brain fog, lymphedema, and fatigue, they haven't diminished our joy and desire to live each day to the fullest."

From believing he had no future, Howard is now planning for the "next 4-5 years." He wants to use his story to raise awareness about penile cancer and HPV.

"My advice is for all men to get checked and let their partners know everything from the beginning. I couldn't have gotten through this without Laura," he said, urging others to avoid shame and stay positive.

Laura added, "Nearly two years without treatment is unbelievable. We're still living as if he only has less than 12 months because when your loved one receives that diagnosis, it changes your perspective, and you want to do as much as possible."

Binh Minh (Independent)