You’ll be fine
Advice received after being diagnosed with prostate cancer in July 2025

​My father, my brother and a good friend of mine
recovered completely - I’m sure you’ll be fine

The treatment’s straightforward, I’ve read it online
My friend hardly noticed - I’m sure you’ll be fine

A lot of men get it, about one in nine*
dying’s unusual** - I’m sure you’ll be fine

Perhaps I should hug you, in silence benign
but let me repeat that - I’m sure you’ll be fine

You still don’t look happy, our thoughts don’t align
These words cause you problems? - I’m sure you’ll be fine

You seem agitated. Oh, is that a sign
that these words upset you? - I’m sure you’ll be fine

I think now I’ve found it, the right bottom line
I cannot be sure but - I hope you’ll be fine

© 2025 Philip Barnett

*Actually one in eight, but this rhymes better
**Actually 12,000 per year in the UK