A Grateful Heart: My Journey Through Prostate Cancer

By Billy Tart Jr., DNP, RN 

This Thanksgiving, gratitude has a deeper meaning for me. I am thankful for life, for the people who have surrounded me with love, and for the faith that sustained me through a prostate cancer diagnosis. As a nurse for more than 35 years, I have spent much of my life encouraging others to take care of their health. This year, I found myself on the other side of that conversation. I became the patient facing tests, treatment decisions, surgery, and recovery. 

My evaluation included an elevated prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, followed by additional testing and a biopsy that confirmed prostate cancer. Hearing that diagnosis made health feel personal in a different way. My nursing knowledge helped me understand the information, but it did not remove the uncertainty that comes with facing cancer yourself. 

I underwent surgery to remove my prostate. My surgery was successful, and I thank God for my healing. Recovery has been a process, and I continue to move forward with gratitude and hope. Yet even if my report had not been good, I know He would still be God—and still be faithful. His faithfulness does not depend on the outcome; He is with me through every circumstance. Throughout this journey, my faith has been an anchor. I believe God has been present in every part of my healing: through the skill of my healthcare team, the prayers of others, and the peace He gave me while I waited for answers. One lesson I will carry with me is that peace does not have to wait until every question is answered. Even when I could not see what was ahead, I could trust that God was with me. For me, faith meant placing my life in His hands while taking the next step in my care. 

I have also been reminded how much community matters. My amazing teammates at UNC Health Wayne surrounded me with kindness and support, and my church family at Saint John PH Church lifted me up in prayer and encouragement. As someone accustomed to caring for others, it meant so much to feel cared for myself. To everyone who reached out, thank you. Your love and kindness helped carry me through a difficult season. 

I share my story because I want others, especially men, to make their health a priority. Talk with your healthcare provider about prostate cancer screening, your personal risk, and what is appropriate for you. Ask questions, discuss concerns, and follow through when additional evaluation is recommended. 

In my work with UNC Health Wayne Diabetes HealthCheck, I regularly encourage people to learn about their risks and take steps toward better health. My own experience has strengthened that commitment. Caring for ourselves also helps us remain present for the people we love. 

This Thanksgiving, I am grateful for the opportunity to keep serving, loving my family, and sharing what I have learned. My hope is that someone reading my story will take a step they have been postponing. Make the appointment. Have the conversation. Receive the support. And wherever you are in your own journey, may you find hope, strength, and reasons to give thanks.