In early 2019 I discovered a small lump on my testicle and originally thought 'oh it'll be nothing but I'll get it checked', I made an appointment with the doctor to discuss the lump which followed in an appointment to the urology department at Preston Royal. I didn't expect that the small lump would be something so untoward after a series of examination and tests it was said that an Ultrasound would be needed to determine what course of action was needed. 

I was told that the testicle would need to be removed and a biopsy would be needed, with this came a shroud of emotion which played on my mind for weeks until I got the results. the day came and as soon I met the oncologist I knew something was wrong, I knew that this wouldn't be my last time seeing him. I was told that the biopsy confirmed stage 1 malignant testicular cancer, Christie's gave me 2 options, either take the risk and have no further treatment after the operation and have a 50/50 chance of the cancer returning, or have 3 weeks of chemotherapy and have the risk of the cancer returning lowered to <5% chance. The choice was clear and I opted to take the chemotherapy.

Following a number of tests on my ears, lungs and kidneys I began 3 days of chemotherapy which completely wiped me out, however Christie's were fantastic and couldn't have done anything more to ensure I was as comfortable as can be expected when having 6 litres of chemotherapy a day. 

I returned to Christie's the week after and the week after that to have 1 hour of chemotherapy each session, this ended my treatment and since then I have been in remission. I have attended Christie's every 3 months for check up, scans and tests. recently I had a CT scan which I have been told is clear and as far as my oncologist is aware I'm in good health and still strongly in remission. My appointments have been moved to 6 months now as the oncologist believes its now safe to do so. 

Before my treatment I was really into my cycling however after it I couldn't do my cycling as much as I'd have liked to because I was so drained, however over the last year I've gotten back into the cycling and now I'm ready to give back to Christie's by cycling 100km from Manchester to Blackpool.  Christie's has played such a large role in my life In recent years and I now I feel the need to show them how grateful I am for all of their efforts. 

I need your help I'd like to raise at least £500 for Christie's every little amount will help fund life changing research and trials that DO save lives as they did mine. 

I'd also like to campaign for greater awareness for not only men but also women to self screen themselves for cancers yes it may seem awkward or embarrassing but if it saves your life its worth it , If you find anything at all that's not normally there please speak to someone anyone do not suffer alone. 

EARLIER DIAGNOSIS = BETTER CHANCES OF SURVIVAL.