Last week I became aware of Thomas Cantley, a testicular cancer survivor who is pushing a large ball (yes, you read that right!) across the country in order to raise awareness about testicular cancer. Thomas, also known as Mr. Ballsy, agreed to answer some questions about testicular cancer, male infertility, and his advocacy experience. Ladies, this is a post to share with your hubby!
Q. Tell us a little about your testicular cancer diagnosis and why you’re pushing a large ball across the country.
The Ball Push started as something personal. I was everything I advocate against… I didn’t listen to my body, I was afraid. I pushed my friends and family away when I needed them most. I was selfish and scared. This journey is about humanity and how my journey started out about me. I Am Ballsy turned into We Are Ballsy. Although I’ve overcome a giant obstacle, not everyone else has. It’s now about the youth and educating them not to end up like me. The goal is to film a documentary and educate the youth on the importance of early detection and your health. Being proactive is being ballsy. My goal is to transport my ball across America from California to New York through the support of people. The difference we can make is based on the support of the countless people we meet during our journey. Their efforts are key. There is no “I” in this journey, only “we”, because our film crew can’t get across the country and create awareness without the support of the public.
Q. What have you learned about testicular cancer in regards to male fertility?
The removal of one testicle, coupled with other aspects of treatment, can mean a decrease in fertility. Before undergoing treatment, virtually all testicular cancer patients “bank” sperm, which is like donating to a sperm bank, only the sperm is for your future use. Not all testicular cancer survivors become infertile, but banking sperm is considered good “insurance” to have, just in case. And we strongly recommend info@tcancer.org if you have more questions about banking sperm.
Q. What’s the most important thing men should know about testicular cancer?
It’s the most common cancer in males ages 15-35 and it is 99% treatable if caught early. So all men should check themselves once a month. To learn how to do this, go to www.tcancer.org. It might just save your life.
Q. What needs to happen in order for men to feel more comfortable talking about testicular health?
We need more awareness and we need to get the educational materials out. This is why I am partnered with the Testicular Cancer Foundation. They have fantastic educational materials that help men learn how to check themselves.
Q. Anything else you’d like to share with my readers?
I am pushing a giant ball across America in the name of testicular cancer… and with the help from the Testicular Cancer Foundation we hope to save lives. Go to TCancer.org to learn more about this cancer and why it’s important for men to regularly get checked. If you guys want to help support our cause or follow us along our journey, you can visit our Instagram or Twitter. We’ll only be using the funds for food, shelter, and transportation during the entire journey, and any money we have in excess will be donated to the Testicular Cancer Foundation.
Many to Thomas for taking some time out from his journey to answer my questions. Please leave him a comment below to let him know you appreciate him and consider pinning this image so others can read his story.
Top two images courtesy of http://ballpush.org/media-kit/
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