It is better to lose two hours at the doctor’s to be told that you do not have cancer than die of embarrassment, a survivor is telling fellow men who detect a lump in one of their testicles.
The man, interviewed during the month dedicated to men’s health issues, goes by the made-up name of Ray Flodna. This is because some of his relatives do not yet know that five years ago he had – and has since overcome – cancer.
He uses his survival story to raise awareness about testicular cancer and has also broached the taboo subject in a publication that he penned after overcoming the trauma.
The Monster between my Legs, a work of fiction, captures his emotions in a humorous way, however, the first years were very difficult for him.
“I went through a sort of bereavement – from anger, to depression, to resignation, to realising that it was not the end of the world. The biggest hurdle, psychologically, was that I lost a testicle.”
Just as some women might feel that part of their womanhood is removed following a mastectomy, men feel there is something missing when they undergo an orchidectomy.
Mr Flodna was 39 years old when he noticed swelling in one testicle. He initially took medication for an infection, as he thought it had swollen up overnight. However, his doctor grew suspicious when Mr Flodna pointed out that the swelling was not painful.
I went through a sort of bereavement – from anger, to depression, to resignation, to realising that it was not the end of the world
A few days later he was diagnosed with cancer.
“It was a huge shock. I was told it had to be removed.”
His mind kept him busy on the following sleepless nights: “Did I do all I could? Should I have had taken action earlier? What about my will? And health insurance?
“I would have gone mad if not for my wife’s support. It’s true that you can live a normal life and hide that you ever had testicular cancer, however, you’re of course aware of it. Today I’m back on track and I’ve overcome thoughts of inferiority.”
His appeal to fellow survivors is to get back to daily routine as soon as they can.
Meanwhile, he tries to drum home the importance of taking immediate action if a lump or swelling is felt.
“Even if it’s nothing serious, it’s better to lose a couple of hours at the doctor than die of embarrassment. If there is something wrong take action as it can kill you.”
• Mr Flodna’s book can be found in bookstores, online on Amazon, or by contacting him on rflodna@gmail.com for a softcopy. He is passing on proceeds to Hospice Malta.