Being diagnosed with cancer while in medical school was an experience that changed my life in ways I couldn’t have imagined. As a young student focused on becoming a doctor, my world suddenly shifted. The diagnosis came swiftly, but so did the care. Within a week, I underwent surgery, followed by radiation treatments. What made my experience unique, though, was that I chose not to put my life on hold. I continued attending classes, completing clinical placements, and studying for exams, all while undergoing treatment.
Balancing medical school and cancer treatment taught me resilience, but it also gave me a profound insight into the world of healthcare from the patient’s perspective. Being on the other side, I experienced what it feels like to rely on doctors and medical systems—not as a physician in training, but as someone whose life was in their hands. It made me realize how deeply interconnected health, empathy, and support are.
One of the most difficult aspects of my journey was reconciling with the personal and emotional challenges of cancer as a young man. Losing a testicle and the potential risk to my ability to have children were heavy realities to face. But beyond that, I realized how much stigma surrounds men’s health issues, like testicular cancer, prostate cancer, and mental health. These topics often aren’t discussed openly, and societal norms can make men feel pressured to remain silent about their health concerns.
It’s because of this stigma that I’ve chosen to speak openly about my cancer experience. I believe it’s essential to create space for these conversations, not just in my role as a physician, but as someone who has been through it. I’ve shared my story with patients who are fighting their own battles with cancer, and I’ve worked to raise awareness through campaigns like Movember. For years, I’ve participated in the Movember campaign—not only raising money but also using it as an opportunity to educate men about the importance of early detection and regular check-ups.
The Movember campaign holds a special place in my heart, and I’m proud to have helped lead the charge in raising thousands of dollars for men’s health. But beyond the fundraising, Movember is about breaking down barriers. It’s about helping men understand that it’s okay to talk about their health, that getting checked for prostate cancer or acknowledging the risk of testicular cancer is a sign of strength, not weakness.
For me, growing a mustache every year isn’t just a symbolic gesture—it’s a conversation starter. It’s a way to connect with my patients, friends, and colleagues, and remind them that men’s health matters. I tell them that it’s important to be proactive, to get screened, and to take care of themselves, both physically and mentally.
Looking back, I’m incredibly thankful for the support I had during my own battle with cancer. I was lucky. My cancer was detected early, and I had access to excellent care. Not everyone is so fortunate. That’s why I feel a deep sense of responsibility to continue sharing my story and advocating for men’s health awareness.