How one Beacon patient’s story emphasizes the power of prevention

For 73-year-old Cornelius Lottie, staying on top of his health is simply just a part of life:

Annual checkups.

Routine bloodwork.

Paying attention.

It was that consistency that made all the difference.

When a routine screening showed his prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels slowly rising, his care team kept a close watch over time. Years later, when those numbers spiked, the next step was clear: act early.

When a routine screening showed his prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels ticking upward, his care team kept a close watch. When those numbers spiked, the next step was clear: act early.

That decision would shape a cancer journey with an experience and outcome Cornelius describes as nothing short of a blessing.

The diagnosis

After monitoring his PSA levels for several years, Cornelius was diagnosed with prostate cancer in early 2025.

“I’ve always been someone who goes to the doctor, gets my annual checkups,” he said. “So when they told me, we were able to catch it and move on it.”

He was referred to the Beacon Cancer Care team, where he met with radiation oncologist Dr. Samuel McGrath.

From the very first conversation, Cornelius felt a sense of clarity and relief.

“He told me, ‘You’re going to be okay,’” Cornelius recalled. “And he took the time to explain everything…what we were going to do, why, etc. That meant a lot.”

Rather than chemotherapy or surgery, Dr. McGrath recommended a course of radiation therapy – 30 treatments over six weeks – to address the cancer early and proactively.

“Because (Cornelius) Mr. Lottie stayed consistent with his PSA screenings and follow-up care, we were able to catch his cancer early,” Dr. McGrath said. “That allowed us to treat it with a shorter course of radiation, targeting a smaller area and helping minimize side effects.”

The unknown

Like many patients, Cornelius’ biggest challenge at the start wasn’t physical.

“The anxiety was really just the fear of the unknown,” he said. “When you hear the word cancer, your mind goes to the worst.”

Even after hearing what to expect, the idea of radiation brought questions.

But that changed quickly.

During his very first treatment, after the machine completed its initial pass in just a few minutes, a radiation therapist returned to let him know the first treatment was complete.

“I said, ‘That was it?’” Cornelius recalled with a laugh. “I didn’t feel anything.”

From that moment on, the anxiety disappeared.

Dr. Samuel McGrath

The compassionate care

His cancer treatment was going smoothly, but it was the treatment he received from the team that really stood out.

“The care they provided was just absolutely wonderful,” Cornelius said. “They weren’t just doing a job. They were genuinely concerned about how I was doing. They knew who I was, and didn’t treat me like a number.”

Those small conversations and connections helped turn a clinical process into something personal, and by the time he neared the end of his treatments, Cornelius knew he wanted to show his appreciation.

So, he did what he does best.

“I’m not a baker, but I have a specialty,” he said. “I make a 7-Up cake.”

He brought one in to share with the team during his 28th treatment. The next time he came in, it was all anyone could talk about.

It might have been a small gesture, but it was one that reflected the gratitude Cornelius felt for the people who had cared for him so well.

“As a department, we certainly understand the fear and anxiety patients deal with when it comes to diagnoses of cancer and the role of radiation therapy,” Dr. McGrath said.

“Our staff, including the front office, nurses, radiation therapists, physicists and dosimetrists, does a stellar job of putting patients at ease with their compassion, kindness and, above all else, professional knowledge,” he said. “Patients can sense when you are competent and care about their well-being. I couldn’t be prouder of a group of individuals and what they do on a daily basis on behalf of our patients.”

The power of prevention

Despite undergoing nearly daily radiation, Cornelius was able to maintain his routine.

“I would schedule my treatments so I could go right to work after,” he said. “That’s how easy it was for me.”

He experienced minimal side effects and remained active throughout treatment, something he credits both to early detection and the support of his care team.

While not a guarantee, Dr. McGrath explained, early detection often means a reduction in the overall intensity of treatment. Most patients he sees tolerate therapy well and maintain a good quality of life, like Cornelius experienced.

After completing his final treatment, Cornelius was able to complete the celebratory milestone of ringing the bell. Soon after, he received even more good news.

The cancer was gone.

Follow-up appointments have shown his numbers continuing to drop, reinforcing what early detection and timely treatment made possible.

To celebrate, he traveled to Texas to spend time with friends, enjoying warm weather and a renewed sense of peace.

The message

Today, Cornelius shares his cancer journey with one clear message, especially for men:

“Go to the doctor. Get your checkups,” he said. “That’s how this was caught.”

He also encourages others to talk more openly about their health.

“Men don’t always talk about these things,” Cornelius said. “But when you do, you realize how many people are going through it too.”

For those facing a similar diagnosis, his advice is simple:

“I know there’s going to be anxiety because of the unknown. But once you get through that first treatment, you’ll see that you’re going to be okay.”