It takes a minute. Testicular cancer and you

Andy Hood
Dec 11
2 min read

I used to scroll straight past posts like this. Blog articles about men’s health? Nope. Not for me.

Then a cancer diagnosis changed everything.

So before you flick past this one, I’m asking—just for a moment—stay with me. Read this. Think about it. It matters more than you might realise.

Let me cut right to it: testicular cancer takes lives, and the only reason it didn’t take mine is because I happened to check at the right time. I was 48. I’d never checked my balls before—openly admit it. The only reason I finally did was because Jeremy Clarkson (unknowingly) gave me a kick up the backside. He didn’t call me up personally saying, “Alright Andy, checked your balls this month?”—now that would’ve been a story—but an episode of The Grand Tour nudged me into action. There’s a whole blog post about that chaotic journey.

The Grand Tour episode that made me check my balls!

Anyway, I checked.And that small, awkward, two-minute moment led to a discovery that saved my life: cancer.

I often think about what would’ve happened if I hadn’t. The thought still knocks the wind out of me. It humbles me. And honestly? It’s what drives me every single day.

If you’ve spent even five minutes on my website, you’ll know I run—for awareness, for my health, for everyone who can’t. I’ve run thousands of pounds into cancer charities because I feel a responsibility. To you. To every guy. To talk openly about something we’re taught to stay quiet about.

Because let’s clear up some myths:

“It’s an old man’s cancer.”WRONG. It hits men 15–48 the most, but it can strike anyone, any age.

“No family history, so I’m fine.”WRONG. I had none. Still got it.

So how do we get more men checking? How do we get men talking without the awkward shuffle and nervous laugh?

We make it entertaining, cheeky, serious—and purposeful.Which is exactly why I created Check Ya Balls underwear. Head over to the merch page and grab a pair. (Yes, that double entendre was entirely on purpose. You’re welcome.)

And below is a simple guide on how to check yourself. Please—I’m imploring you—do it today. And next month. And the month after that. Talk to your sons, your brothers, your dads, your uncles, your mates. This is how lives are saved: through tiny moments of awareness and shared conversations.