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Hi there...My name is Stephen Mattinson - I live in Steyning, West
Sussex, in the south of England. I am 48 years old.
My testicular cancer story is interesting in that I have an identical
twin brother - Robert - and we have both had it, though mine was
a seminoma, diagnosed about 8 months ago, and he had a teratoma
about 6 years ago. Having supported him during his illness and treatment
I knew exactly what was wrong when I noticed a change in my testicle
- a hardening and enlargement. His treatment involved surgery followed
by chemotherapy and I had surgery and radiotherapy. I am glad to
say that we are both well and enjoy life to the full. He has been
dischargeb but I am of course still having quarterly checks.
I think the most important aspect is early diagnosis and a positive
attitude. Although being diagnosed with cancer is a shock, neither
of us felt particularly ill and never let it dominate our lives
- we did not want to be 'sufferers' or 'victims'. Although the treatment
can make you feel a bit rough, for the most part one can get on
with life as normal. It pays to be clued up so that you can have
informed and intelligent discussions with your doctors about your
treatment. And never feel that it is something shameful - lots of
other men seem to really appreciate being able to discuss this intimate
issue with another man who has had a problem. If there are other
British guys reading this, you will appreciate that our (free) National
Health Service is often criticised, but all I can say is that my
brother and I have both had excellent treatment - I don't think
money could have bought any better.
In short, if any guy is worried about a problem with his balls,
just go to the doctor and get it checked out as soon as possible.
There is no need to be embarrassed, the chances are it will not
be cancer, but even if it is it need not be a big deal.
Best wishes!
- Stephen
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