Adam Ramsden, an executive recruiter from Pocklington, just outside York was diagnosed with testicular cancer while taking part in the Great North Run for Movember. He shares his experience with us:
Back in May 2025, I got hit with the words no one ever expects to hear: “You’ve got testicular cancer.” It still feels strange to say that out loud.
Finding the lump
I’d signed up to run the Great North Run for Movember with my brother-in-law, Bill, as I regularly support Movember and love to stay fit. Coincidentally, just two weeks later I found the lump.
I’ve been involved with Movember and OddBalls for a long time, through playing rugby while I was at Newcastle University. So thankfully, I knew about checking myself regularly, and make a habit out of doing it when I shower.
I was in the shower one morning doing exactly that, when I felt a small lump. I got it checked straight away and thank god I did. It was caught early.
Getting the right support
The whole diagnosis was a blur. Hospital appointments, scans, that weird mix of fear and disbelief. But what stood out the most was how incredible everyone around me was. My dad (Rich), Bill, my girlfriend Emily, her dad Dan, my sister’s boyfriend Lewis, and my two mates (both called Harry, because of course they are) all signed up to run the Great North Run with me to support me.
Together we raised over £5.5K. Honestly, that support meant everything. And it made me realise how powerful fundraising can be. It gives you something positive to focus on and brings you closer to people.
Your health touches everyone
Seeing how much my diagnosis affected my family and friends was tough. You don’t realise how much your health touches everyone else until something like this happens. But they supported me no matter what. And for that I'm grateful.
I can only imagine how much harder it would’ve been on me and the people around me, if I hadn’t got it checked out as soon as I did. The cancer spread could’ve been higher and the consequences worse.
That’s why I’m shouting about it. Because if me telling my story gets even one bloke to check himself, and catch an early diagnosis, it’s worth it.
Make checking normal
The truth is that a lot of men don’t check because they’re scared. Either of finding something or of having to see a doctor about it. But take it from me: if you catch it early, it can all be over and sorted in a matter of weeks.
I’m lucky. The combination of Movember and rugby culture probably saved my life - because they gave me the information I needed to know what to do, as well as made checking feel normal.
So, for any guy reading this, from me to you, make checking yourself routine. Check yourself in the shower. If something feels off, don’t ignore it. It’s five seconds that could save your life.
👉 Learn how to give your nuts a feel and get to know what's normal for you.