Justin's Testicular Cancer Story: Taking Charge of Your Health

November 1, 2024

Pre Diagnosis Awareness

Before being thrust into the world of cancer, my understanding of testicular cancer was about as deep as a kiddie pool. I knew it was a possibility, like being struck by lightning while holding a winning lottery ticket. It was the kind of thing that happened to other people, not to me. I didn’t have any close friends or family who had dealt with this particular hurdle, which in a way, left me in blissful ignorance.

Initial Discovery

Discovery day was as uneventful as any other—until it wasn't. It was an October morning in 2016, and while performing one of my rare self-exams in the shower, I felt a lump that didn’t belong. At first, I did what many guys might do—I played it down. I felt fine, symptom-free, and my mind insisted this was probably nothing. But my gut nudged me otherwise. The idea of calling a doctor was daunting, but I knew it needed to be done. Seeking help felt like exposing a vulnerability I wasn't ready to show, but it was a necessary step that, ultimately, saved my life.

Medical Experience

The doctor's words hit me like a sledgehammer: "You have testicular cancer." Despite the numbness that followed, my logical mind understood that time wasn’t on my side. Second opinions are a luxury when the word ‘cancer’ is on the table, but my doctor made it clear that we didn’t have time for leisurely contemplation. The urgency of the situation stripped away any lingering doubts I had, plunging me into a flurry of medical appointments, tests, and consultations. It wasn’t just about advocating for myself anymore; it was about acting swiftly to eliminate the threat.

Diagnosis

Being diagnosed with Stage IIB Nonseminoma testicular cancer at 25 wasn't just a curveball; it was a complete game changer. The initial shock was quickly followed by a torrent of thoughts and fears. Would I be able to have children? How would this impact my relationship, my career, and my identity as a man? Overnight, my perspective on health shifted from an abstract concept to a palpable reality. It was a wake-up call that life doesn’t follow your script and that health isn't something to be taken for granted—it’s a fragile gift that demands attention and respect.

Support System

Shock, concern, and an outpouring of love—my diagnosis triggered a whirlwind of emotions among my family and friends. They quickly rallied around me, embodying the very essence of a support system. My parents and my circle of friends were instrumental in navigating the chaos that followed. From accompanying me to doctor visits to simply lending an ear when I needed to vent, their unwavering presence offered a sense of stability. They each played a unique role, crafting a safety net of emotional, practical, and sometimes humorous support that sustained me.

Impact on Relationships

Cancer doesn't just test the body; it tests relationships. My health journey redefined the ties I had with those around me. The experience deepened existing bonds and initiated conversations that might never have occurred otherwise. Vulnerability became a strange ally, peeling back layers and paving the way for genuine connections. Some friendships dwindled—unable to withstand the reality check—but many emerged stronger, forged through shared fears and triumphs. Conversations about life, mortality, and the things that really matter became more profound, reminding me of the richness that comes with genuine human connection.

Personal Growth

Cancer became an uninvited yet transformative teacher. It taught me that health—both mental and physical—is an ongoing dialogue, not a monologue. The battle extended beyond eradicating cancer cells to addressing mental health, a journey into self-awareness and acceptance. I've learned the importance of resilience, the strength found in vulnerability, and the power of advocacy—not just for me, but for others, too. This experience has reshaped my outlook on life, illuminating the impermanence of existence and the need to prioritize well-being, relationships, and meaningful pursuits over trivialities.

Lifestyle Changes

Life post-diagnosis demanded a recalibration of priorities. I've shifted towards a more conscious lifestyle, embracing the importance of physical activity, balanced nutrition, and mental health awareness. No longer do I chase goals out of obligation; instead, I pursue passions that truly resonate.

Recently, I've been living in my "peak Dad era," as I like to call it. Following the birth of my daughter in November 2023, I've consciously shifted my focus to fully embrace my role as a father. This decision has meant stepping back from actively updating my blog, A Ballsy Sense of Tumor, to prioritize precious family time.

In the whirlwind since her arrival, my days are filled with diaper changes, sleepless nights, and countless moments that bring joy and wonder. Our family dynamics have shifted beautifully, with my wife working tirelessly as the glue that holds us together, and my son stepping into his role as the ever-helpful big brother. These experiences have taught me to marvel at life's small moments—something I never imagined I'd do, like spending ten minutes evaluating my daughter's hand movements.

Future Outlooks

Health is no longer a background player in my life; it's center stage. I've adopted a proactive stance, prioritizing regular check-ups and an open dialogue about health matters, including the often-untouched topic of mental health in men's circles. My future is intrinsically linked to my work as the Director of Operations at Savvy Cooperative, a health-related organization dedicated to reshaping the way we address patient experiences and insights in healthcare. This role allows me to combine my passion for health advocacy with tangible action, influencing positive change within the industry.

Beyond my professional goals, I aim to expand my advocacy work through my blog, A Ballsy Sense of Tumor, and continue to shine a light on men's health issues. Personally, I strive to lead a life filled with purpose, cherishing each day and using my second chance to inspire change and nurture the well-being of myself and those around me. Balancing my personal mission with my professional endeavors at Savvy Cooperative, I hope to contribute meaningfully to a more patient-centered healthcare system and promote open conversations about health.

Advice for Others

If you’re hesitating, remember this: your health is the foundation for everything you want to achieve. Early intervention can be the difference between a scare and a life-altering journey. Speak up, seek help, and don’t let pride stand in the way of your well-being. Friends and family play a crucial role; support one another by normalizing conversations around health, holding each other accountable, and ensuring no one feels isolated in their struggles. My guiding mantra through this journey has been "Carpe Scrotiem!"—a call to action to seize not just the day, but your health with courage and humor.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t include directions on how to do a testicular self-exam. Best done during or after a shower when the scrotum is relaxed, a self exam is a quick and effective way to catch testicular cancer early on. Just place your index and middle fingers under the testicle with your thumb on top. Firmly but gently, roll the testicle between your fingers. Any weird lumps or bumps should be checked out by a doctor ASAP. When you get out of the shower, be sure to look for signs of changes in shape, color, or swelling.

Conclusion

My journey is a testament to the power of vulnerability and the necessity of open dialogue about men's health. It’s a reminder that humor and positivity are invaluable tools in facing adversity. Most importantly, I want people to realize the impact of their stories—sharing can break down stigmas and potentially save lives. Let’s replace silence with conversation, stigma with understanding, and help pave the way for a healthier, more open society.