Man Reveals Impact Disease Has Had As He Back Major Awareness Campaign

A dad-of-two diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer is campaigning to raise awareness of the signs of the disease - as he asks lawyers to secure answers.

Sadegh Feridoonian was diagnosed with high-grade prostate cancer in February 2023 – around seven years after first complaining of right groin pain, swelling at the top of his testicles and an increased urge to wee. 

Following tests, Sadegh, of West Drayton, Hillingdon, was diagnosed with a moderately enlarged prostate. He underwent an MRI scan, the results of which were sent to his GP. Sadegh was not invited for a follow up appointment, he said. 

Sadegh, who has two sons, continued to complain of pain and tenderness, including when sitting down and around his groin. Over the years he attended a number of medical appointments, including several hospital appointments. 

Sadegh developed other symptoms including reduced urinary flow, but an increased need to go to the toilet at night as well as a change in bowel habit.

West Drayton dad Sadegh diagnosed with prostate cancer

In autumn 2022 he was referred to hospital for further tests. The 73-year-old was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer in February 2023. 

Sadegh, who has a PhD in physics worked in the IT industry for years , was told chemotherapy or radiotherapy were not suitable for his type of cancer. 

Sadegh asks medical negligence lawyers to secure answers

He instructed expert medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate whether more could have been done to diagnose his cancer sooner and help him access the specialist support he requires. 

Sadegh, who is receiving hormone treatment in a bid to slow the growth of his cancer, has now spoken for the first time about the impact the disease has had on his life. He has joined his legal team in supporting Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and raising awareness of the signs of the disease – the most common cancer in men. 

Ash Menon is the specialist medical negligence lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Sadegh.

Expert Opinion

“Coming to terms with his diagnosis and what the future may hold has been incredibly difficult for Sadegh and his family.

“Understandably he has a number of concerns about his diagnosis. Sadegh is particularly concerned as to whether his cancer could have been diagnosed earlier given the number of medical appointments he attended and tests he underwent.

“We’re now investigating Sadegh’s concerns to provide him with the answers he deserves.

“In the meantime, we join him in supporting Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Sadly, 12,000 men in the UK die of prostate cancer each year, therefore, it’s vital to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of the disease but also how early detection and treatment are key to beating it. We’d urge men concerned they may have prostate cancer to seek medical advice at the earliest opportunity.” Ash Menon

Prostate cancer: Sadegh Feridoonian's story

Sadegh said: “It’s difficult to find the words to describe what the last few years have been like. I sought medical advice on a number of occasions. However, each time it felt like I had to chase things up and nobody seemed too concerned about my symptoms. 

“For several years I tried to carry on.. However, nothing prepared me for the news I had cancer. The hardest thing to try and accept is how advanced it is, meaning my treatment options are more restricted. 

“My boys have been amazing. I’m in constant pain and while we try and go out for a walk together  I can’t do a lot of things now that I could before my diagnosis. 

“While I try and remain as positive as I can, I get upset by what’s happened and it’s difficult not to think whether things could be different if my cancer was picked up earlier. 

“I feel I deserve answers and I just hope that by speaking out I can help raise awareness of what I’ve had to face to help others. There can sometimes be a stigma around men’s health and seeking medical advice. 

“I’d urge anyone concerned they may have prostate cancer to seek medical advice as soon as they can and if they feel something still isn’t right to push for a second opinion. It could make all the difference to them.”

Cancer help and support available

Prostate Cancer Month runs throughout March. More information can be found on the website of the male cancer charity Orchid. 

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting people and families affected by cancer care issues at our dedicated cancer claims section. Alternatively, to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.