Did you know that most testicular cancer cases are reported in men between the ages of 15 and 38? That’s a lot younger than you thought, eh?
Our very own veteran radio jock and TV presenter, Mark Pilgrim, was diagnosed with stage 4 testicular cancer, which spread to his lungs and kidneys at the tender age of 18. Mark remembers the oncologist at the time telling him that the prognosis was “uncertain”. BUT, today Mark is a survivor, actively spreading the message of early detection and prevention of cancer to all South Africans.
Yeah, Mark joined the battalions of brave men running through peak hour traffic wearing nothing but their speedos! Why? Because cancer doesn’t choose age, colour, or body shape. Truth is 1 in 6 South African men are affected by it in their lifetime!
Rocking your speedo in the Hollard Daredevil Run is not just about doing something daring, fun and liberating – it’s about raising awareness and using the power of collective action to inspire change.
There are quite a few awareness drives such as the Daredevil Run in South Africa. According to Torsten Koehler, a cancer survivor himself, and founder of Love Your Nuts – an organisation aimed at providing education to young men about testicular cancer and lending support to those going through the recovery process –“Cancer is not a death sentence; most cases can be treated if caught early and there is much hope and support for each person along their cancer journey.”
BUT, the brutality of chemotherapy – all cancer treatments for that matter –makes any athletic event, speedo or not, look like a walk in the park. You often hear cancer described as a “battle” where you have to “fight” to survive. Here’s the thing. This particular “fight” is never fair.
There are certain steps that you can take to improve your odds and put you one step ahead of your “opponent”. Here are a few ways to fight back:
- Count to 28 million – That’s how many cancer survivors there are worldwide. Believe that you are number 28 million and one.
- Try not to panic. Allow yourself to take the time you need to gather your thoughts to be able to make decisions about yourself and your treatment. Ask questions, be informed, and get a second opinion if you feel the need to. You are in charge.
- This is not your fault. This did not happen to you because of something that you did, or did not do.
- Make lifestyle changes to improve your outcome. Eat healthy, quit smoking and get enough rest. Be as active as you can.
- Focus on the present moment rather than thinking of an uncertain future. One- day- at- a- time. Moment-by-moment. Let your mantra be: “Right here, right now, I am doing the best I can.” The human spirit is ultimately more powerful than the human body.
- Stay focused on the task at hand, putting one foot in front of the other and moving closer to the finish line.
- Embrace the love of family and friends. Love is the most powerful drug.
- Join a support group. Cancer survivors can share their experiences and give insight into what you can expect.
- Find creative outlets. Focus on something other than cancer. Find something you enjoy, such as reading or listening to music.
- Manage your stress. Stress taxes the immune system that is already compromised. Practise relaxation techniques and take time for simple pleasures such as a warm bath, a manicure or a pedicure.
- Remain involved with work activities for as long as you can.
- Keep a journal.
- Find a source of spiritual support if you need it.
The best way to beat cancer is through early detection. Be aware of any changes in your body, never miss regular check- ups and don’t ignore warning signs.
Source: iconsa.co.za, takingthefearoutofcancer.com, www.mayoclinic.org, www.manabouttown.co.za, www.daredevilrun.com, www.verywell.com, www.loveyournuts.com, www.themarkgorryfoundation.co.uk, cancer.ucsd.edu, www.cansa.org.za, www.huffingtonpost.com, www.psychologytoday.com
