2010 proton radiation at Loma Linda Hospital in Loma Linda, California. PSA; 6.47; Gleason 3 plus 3. Slow-growth cancer localized in one area. Spent 2.5 months with morning radiation just a few moments after set up. The procedure has changed somewhat from what I understand. No side effects...I played racquetball each day in the afternoons. Keep in mind, with the extended length in treatment time, one must have accommodation and perhaps a vehicle. In my case, I was residing in Europe working contract in Africa post-military retirement. The total cost was (at that time) about $100K not including vehicle rental or accommodation. TriCare For Life paid the entire bill. Proton radiation was originally designed for brain cancer treatment at Loma Linda (Children's) Hospital. Proton radiation for prostate cancer was an "offshoot" of the benefits of that procedure. I have read many personal circumstances on this informative Mayo website and it appears many men and many doctors as well know very little about proton radiation therapy. Keep in mind, a hospital like Loma Linda had to build a cyclotron, the size of the boundaries of a football field cost tens of millions of dollars. Always seek second opinions.