I'm currently combating the effects of testicular cancer.

Unlike many cancers, there are few known strong risk factors for testicular cancer. While most of these cancers occur in unsuspecting individuals, some risk factors can be traced in a minority of cases. For me none of these factors were or could have indicated I was a risk.

What is testicular cancer?

Testicular cancer occurs when normal, healthy cells, which are carefully regulated by the body, begin to reproduce uncontrollably within an area of the body such as the testicles.

My story (the short version:-)

Aged 48 I was at the tail end of the age range for such cancer and so in May 2018 I was not overly concerned of a small pea sized lump on my right testicle, however I did have the foresight to go to the doctors - "glad I did". Appointment attended, examined and like a well oiled machine I was seeing an NHS consultant (June 18th), chest X - ray and blood tests conducted. This was followed by an ultra scan (2nd July) and awaited results - not for long as I was called to clear the 9th July as the results were positive and the operation to remove my right testicle had to take place. Please note this operation has a high percentage of success and so again was not overly concerned. But of course the thought of such treatment left me a little worried...

After the operation I recovered very quickly and then you have to make choices about ongoing treatment and monitoring for the next 5 years - I chose to be monitored.

Following several blood tests which indicated all was good in the world I had my first CT scan in Jan, 19. The results of this came back very quickly - I had several enlarge lymph nodes within my abdomen area and so the inevitable treatment of 1 x dose of chemotherapy on Feb 8th followed by 14 zaps of radiotherapy between the 15th March and the 5th April took place.

I now await my results planned for May and have a 98% chance of success. For all you men out there make sure you know your balls by checking regularly and go to the GP if you have any concerns.

Who are Orchid

Orchid is the UK's leading charity working on behalf of anyone affected by or interested in male cancer - prostate, testicular, and penile cancer. Established in 1996 by testicular cancer patient, Colin Osborne MBE and oncologist who saved his life, professor Tim Oliver, Orchid exists to save men's lives from male cancer through a range of support services, education and awareness campaigns and pioneering research programmes.