Breaking News:

HEALTH

Man shares his story of battle with prostate cancer

Oct 18, 2024, 7:30 PM | Updated: Oct 20, 2024, 10:04 pm

SALT LAKE CITY — Prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in American men. Not everyone experiences symptoms, which is why it’s important to get screened.

One man shared his story about his journey with prostate cancer, and his message for others.

“I’ll take the side effects of the treatment versus the side effects of the cancer because I want to live longer,” said Jim Oveson — and he is not letting his cancer slow him down.

“I’ve got things I still want to do,” Oveson said.

The 70-year-old from South Jordan received his diagnosis after a high PSA test prompted a biopsy. What’s followed has been chemo, hormone treatments and radiation.

“Prostate cancer is actually the second most common cancer diagnosed in American men just behind skin cancer,” said Dr. Josh Holyoak, a urologist at Summit Urology. He’s been treating Jim’s cancer.

Holyoak said it’s important for men to begin screening at age 45, or sooner if they have a family history of prostate cancer.

“If you wait to have symptoms, it’s too late. That’s why we go looking for it,” Holyoak said. “If we catch it when it’s early stage, it is curable.”

Dr. Holyoak and Oveson are hoping to help break the silence around this disease.

“My family wanted to know what was going on, and I just said, ‘Don’t worry about it,'” Oveson said. “Unfortunately, that’s the way it is a lot of the times with prostate cancer. We don’t want to talk about it.”

“Once he started sharing, he began realizing it was important to let others know that this is happening, and that we’re not infallible. We have vulnerabilities,” said Oveson’s wife Marylin.

Oveson said he’s not back to 100% yet, but he’s putting in the work so he can spend more time with the people he loves.

Saturday morning there will be a Zero Prostate Cancer Run and Walk at Wheeler Farm in Murray. Proceeds will go toward helping local prostate cancer patients.

KSL 5 TV Live

Health

A group of cancer activists at Utah's Capitol Hill for Cancer Action Day. (American Cancer Society)...

Tamara Vaifanua

Looking Out for the Good: Cancer activists to gather with elected officials on Capitol Hill

Activists and patients will be at Utah's Capitol Hill to meet with elected officials, sharing their stories and pushing policies that aid the fight against cancer.

2 days ago

Art displays draw attention to women's heart disease. (KSL TV)...

Karah Brackin

Art display brings attention to women’s heart disease

Acid reflux, the flu, or aging: These can be misconceptions about what is really going on, which is much more severe.

7 days ago

The Department of Public Safety is warning Utahns to not drink and drive this Super Bowl Sunday. (K...

Dan Rascon

Department of Public Safety encourages fans to plan a sober ride for Super Bowl Sunday

The Utah Department of Public Safety sent out a word of warning for Super Bowl Sunday: Do not drink and drive.

8 days ago

The Weber County Animal Shelter said it had to euthanize at least 18 dogs after a canine parvovirus...

SIMONE SEIKALY

Parvovirus outbreak leads to euthanizations at Weber County Animal Services

Weber County Animal Services had to euthanize 18 dogs that tested positive for canine parvovirus.

9 days ago

A woman wearing lime green platform shoes....

Emma Benson

Beauty is pain? Why platform shoes can be a health hazard

While platform shoes are back in style, experts say they pose a risk for injury.

14 days ago

The Ogden Fire Department has created a new position. The homeless medical advocate will address th...

Alex Cabrero

Ogden Fire Department expands services with 1 new homeless medical advocate

Ogden Fire's homeless medical advocate will focus on treating minor medical issues among the homeless population.

15 days ago

Sponsored Articles

luxury living room with a classic white sofa and sofa, interior design...

Lighting Design

Revisiting home lighting trends for 2025

Looking for inspiration to revamp your home lighting? This article outlines some of the emerging lighting trends for 2025.

holiday gift basket with blue tissue paper and gingerbread cookies...

Kneaders Bakery & Cafe

Holiday hacks for a stress-free season

Get more out of your time with family and loved ones over the holidays by following these tips for a stress-free season.

2 computer techs in a computer shop holding up a computer server with the "hang loose" sign...

PC Laptops

A comprehensive guide to choosing the right computer

With these tips, choosing the right computer that fits your needs and your budget will be easier than ever.

crowds of people in a German style Christmas market...

This Is The Place Heritage Park

Celebrate Christkindlmarket at This Is The Place Heritage Park!

The Christkindlmarket is an annual holiday celebration influenced by German traditions and generous giving.

Image of pretty woman walking in snowy mountains. Portrait of female wearing warm winter earmuff, r...

Lighting Design

Brighten your mood this winter with these lighting tricks

Read our lighting tips on how to brighten your mood in the winter if you are experiencing seasonal affective disorder.

A kitchen with a washer and dryer and a refrigerator...

Appliance Man

Appliance Man: a trusted name in Utah’s home appliance industry

Despite many recent closures of local appliance stores, Appliance Man remains Utah's trusted home appliance business and is here to stay.

Man shares his story of battle with prostate cancer