I am new to this site and forum. Figure I will leave a "who I am and why I am here" message.
I am a father of five (3 girls, 2 boys), with the best wife in the world. Having always been reasonably healthy (though somewhat out-of-shape), the recent events have set me on a new course. Based on these events, I highly recommend that anyone (especially men) who observes even a small amount of blood in there urine press their Dr. for a CT and/or cystoscopy.
Last May, immediately following a motorcycle trip with my wife, there was significant blood in my urine. Having had blood in my urine in the past (usually during use of antibiotics), I didn't panic. After a couple days, I got the advice of an RN, who directed me immediately to my GP. After visiting my GP's partner (she was booked), and having a blood and urine analysis, it was determined that there was some blood that had been in my urine, but everything seemed OK, so he sent me on my way.
During the holidays, I had another episode, with the blood brighter red than previously. This time, the GP sent me in for a CT scan and cystocopy. A 2cm tumor (Ta papillary urothelial carcinoma) was discovered and removed, without any indication of further invasion beyond the bladder lining. I have since learned that this is the very best possible outcome (other than having a benign tumor).
The treatment, of course, is periodic 6-week BCG treatments, and regular cystoscopies. My faith is strong, but since this is all so new, I will be scanning everything on this site, and probably asking questions from you vetrans.