Atle Wester Larsen, father of Jørgen Strand Larsen, has disclosed that he is battling metastatic prostate cancer with a prognosis that cannot be cured by surgery, according to interviews published by VG and Halden Arbeiderblad. The 52-year-old journalist shared the diagnosis publicly, detailing both the rigorous daily medical treatments he undergoes and the stark contrasts of following his son’s career during the summer football World Cup.
Diagnosis and Medical Prognosis
Atle Wester Larsen received his prostate cancer diagnosis in the spring, as reported by Halden Arbeiderblad. While prostate cancer often carries favorable prognoses, his specific case involves metastasis. “I have a variant with spreading that I do not get rid of,” he told the local newspaper. Surgery is not an option, meaning current medical interventions focus on keeping the disease in check.
Hormone therapy has successfully lowered his prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, but the treatment has brought severe side effects, including intense hot flashes. During a travel day returning from the World Cup where the airport air conditioning had failed, Atle described the experience to VG as a “nightmare” that left him questioning whether he needed physical assistance to board the aircraft.
Radiation Treatment at Ullevål Hospital
In September, Atle travels daily to Ullevål Hospital in Oslo for radiation therapy. According to his interview with VG while commuting home with a friend driving, he has completed 12 out of 20 scheduled radiation sessions. Reflecting on a cancer specialist’s statement that the average life expectancy following this specific diagnosis is 12 to 13 years, he noted to Halden Arbeiderblad, “It hits you right in the middle of the face. I obviously hope to live longer. An average means that some pull in both ends, and I intend to be the one who pulls in the right end.”
Did you know?
A PSA test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood to help detect conditions affecting the prostate gland, serving as a primary monitoring tool during prostate cancer care.
Balancing Family Life and International Football
The diagnosis arrived just as Atle and his family prepared to support Jørgen Strand Larsen and the Norway national team during the summer World Cup matches. Atle watched the games from the stands in New Jersey—celebrating alongside family members including stepmother Mette, half-brothers Markus and Even Andre, and sister Josefine—and met with VG reporters on Manhattan.
Despite the festive atmosphere, the illness remained a constant background presence. “It has been quite tough for both children and others,” Atle told VG, noting that his children’s active daily routines have helped them manage the stress. Looking ahead to upcoming fixtures, Atle confirmed plans to attend Norway’s matches against Denmark on September 24 and Portugal on September 27 at Ullevaal Stadion, stating he hopes to see his son secure playing time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cancer does Atle Wester Larsen have?
According to interviews with VG and Halden Arbeiderblad, he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer with spreading (metastasis).
Can his cancer be treated with surgery?
No, the variant cannot be surgically removed, so treatment relies on hormone therapy and daily radiation to manage the condition.
Where is he receiving his radiation therapy?
He travels to Ullevål Hospital in Oslo every day in September for his radiation treatments.
How has the family responded to the illness?
Atle states that while the situation has been tough on the children, they maintain busy daily lives that help them cope with the ongoing challenge.
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