In this episode of It Takes Balls, 26-year-old survivor Jonny King shares his powerful story of discovering a testicular lump, receiving a cancer diagnosis, and navigating treatment through the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
Jonny first noticed his symptoms during a self-exam - an essential tool in the early detection of testicular cancer. Within weeks, he was on the urgent cancer pathway, undergoing blood tests, scans, and ultimately an orchiectomy (orchidectomy) to remove the testicle. While the initial surgery was successful, his tumor markers continued to rise, leading to chemotherapy and later an RPLND (retroperitoneal lymph node dissection) to remove residual disease.
He opens up about the emotional and physical challenges of treatment, including hair loss, isolation during chemo, recovery after major surgery, and the lasting impact on fertility and body image. Jonny also reflects on what it means to navigate survivorship as a young gay man, underscoring the importance of mental health support and community connection after cancer.
Now in remission, Jonny is determined to raise awareness by sharing his story, encouraging monthly self-exams, and reminding others that early detection of testicular cancer saves lives. His journey offers valuable insights for anyone searching for answers about testicular cancer symptoms, treatment, or life after cancer.
Join The Ball Room:
https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/theballroom
Want to be a guest? Apply here:
https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/it-takes-balls-submissions
Follow Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation:
https://www.testescancer.org
https://www.x.com/testescancer
https://www.instagram.com/testescancer
https://www.facebook.com/tca.org
Follow Steven Crocker:
https://www.twitter.com/stevencrocker
https://www.instagram.com/stevencrocker
https://www.facebook.com/steven.crocker2
Connect with Jonny:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathankingbio/
Theme song: No Time Like Now - Tom Willner www.tomwillner.com
