Mickey Starling
reporter3@greenepublishing.com
In July of 2025, Timmy Dyke was having a routine physical when elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels were detected. A later biopsy confirmed the presence of prostate cancer.
Next, a Pet Scan was taken to determine if the cancer had spread. Fortunately, it had not. Dyke had consultations with doctors in Tallahassee and Jacksonville, Fla. and decided to pursue treatment at the Mayo Clinic, in Jacksonville..
In April, Dyke began proton therapy, which directs radiation directly to cancer-stricken areas by way of small pieces of gold that are inserted in the body that act as targets for the radiation. Dyke had 28 treatments over a period of time, with each session lasted about 45 minutes.
During these trips to Jacksonville, Dyke had the opportunity to meet people from numerous areas, including Australia and Canada. As often as possible, he would minister to them the hope of the gospel.
Since June, Dyke has been taking hormone therapy pills, which are intended to starve the cancer. The pills are working, with his PSA level now down to .1.
The medication is also causing side effects like loss of strength, fatigue and hot flashes. Yet, Dyke remains hot on the trail, continuing to build ramps (three in a recent week) and preach the gospel, recently ministering in Idaho, Alabama and, of course, Florida.
His message to others is simple, but important: have annual checkups. Early detection means often catching cancer before it spreads to other organs, making the recovery process more difficult. “I really appreciate the support from the community and Bible study groups,” said Dyke. “It has been amazing.”