The discussion dives into how certain chemotherapies - especially those used for testicular cancer - can quietly weaken blood vessels and heart tissue, even in young men. With cardiovascular disease being the leading long-term cause of death in cancer survivors, Dr. Ray explains why testicular cancer treatment should always include proactive cardiac screening and long-term fitness monitoring.
Read MoreThe episode dives into the emotional impact of facing cancer while juggling a demanding medical career and processing the blow of infertility. Aaron later faced recurrence, underwent three rounds of BEP chemotherapy, and then an RPLND surgery. But what followed was a rare complication: chylous ascites, a buildup of lymphatic fluid in the abdomen. After months of procedures - including multiple drainings, gluing, a second exploratory surgery, and the placement of a Denver shunt - his condition finally resolved over 18 months after his initial diagnosis.
Read MoreWith a prognosis of only 40–50% survival at two years, Andrew began a grueling VIP chemotherapy regimen, complicated by a blood clot and extreme side effects including weight loss and neuropathy. He credits his survival not only to expert care at Walter Reed and Indiana University Health but also to the unshakable support of his wife, children, and medical team.
Read MoreWhat followed was a whirlwind of scans, cross-country travel, and life-changing decisions. Luke opens up about going through four rounds of EP chemo, how a delayed diagnosis led to Stage IIIB disease, and the emotional toll of facing mortality at such a young age. He talks honestly about fear, depression, hair loss, and finding light through friends, family, Reddit threads, and complete strangers who showed up when he needed it most.
Read MoreBut this isn’t just a story about setbacks. Josh opens up about using humor to cope - turning ball jokes into a survival tactic, considering stand-up comedy, and keeping things light even when things got heavy. He reflects on the support of his family, his gym community, and the middle and high school athletes who unknowingly helped keep him going through the worst of it.
Read MoreTesticular Cancer Awareness Foundation supports Men’s Health Week, promoting early detection and breaking the silence around men’s health issues.
Read MoreA major highlight of the episode is the discussion of innovative diagnostic tools like circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and microRNA-371. These biomarkers are making it possible to detect microscopic cancer earlier and more accurately, with the goal of reducing overtreatment and improving outcomes.
Read MoreHunter recounts the shock of discovering a lump almost immediately after moving onto campus - just as he was settling into college life. What followed was a whirlwind of confusion from first being diagnosed with epididymitis to later being told he needs 4 rounds of chemo. At an age when most students are focused on classes and dorm life, Hunter was undergoing surgery and processing a cancer diagnosis away from home.
Read MoreJustin shares how a routine workout and a casual self-check led to a life-changing discovery - and how early instincts, combined with persistence and self-advocacy, helped him through a whirlwind year. He explains how he turned to AI tools for clarity when the medical system left him with questions, and facing the shock of a recurrence.
Read MoreOn April 27, 2025, Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation (TCAF) hosted a Meet & Greet at the WAKUDA within the Palazzo at the Venetian in Las Vegas. The event was sponsored by Fennec Pharmaceuticals and took place during AUA 2025 Las Vegas, attracting over 50 attendees, including leading urologic oncologists and researchers in the field of testicular cancer.
Read MoreWhat began as a routine backcountry snowboarding trip ended with a bump, a tick bite, and a series of misdiagnoses that nearly cost Bob his life. From fighting for answers to confronting a flawed healthcare system, Bob shares how intuition, persistence, and community helped him survive one of the most challenging periods of his life.
Read MoreThe 14th annual Tee Off for Testicular Cancer raised over $30,000 at Sewell’s Point Golf Course, bringing together survivors, supporters, and sponsors for a fun-filled day of awareness.
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