Survivor Spotlight
Justin Birckbichler, testicular cancer survivor
At My Cancer Family, we believe that the right voice can change – and even save – lives. This month, we’re honored to introduce you to Justin Birckbichler, testicular cancer survivor and founder of A Ballsy Sense of Tumor. Justin is on a mission to take the awkwardness out of men’s health conversations and replace it with honesty, humor, and action. Through candid storytelling and practical resources, he’s helping men – and the people who love them – feel less alone through diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Justin’s work is a powerful reminder that when we speak up, show up, and support one another, healing becomes a little less heavy and a lot more human.
Read our interview with Justin below. And follow him @aballsysenseoftumor.
How does A Ballsy Sense of Tumor help others? What’s your main mission?
The mission: make men’s health—especially testicular cancer—less awkward and more actionable.
I use candid storytelling and humor to normalize conversations, push early detection (monthly self-exams), and guide patients/caregivers through diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.
The site offers practical how-tos, plain‑English explainers, mental health support, and resources for partners, all to ensure no guy suffers in silence or dies of embarrassment.
I also advocate publicly (talks, media, partnerships) to reach guys who might never otherwise hear the message: check yourself, speak up, get seen.
Since becoming a survivor, what insights have you learned - and how has it changed you?
Survivorship isn’t a finish line; it’s a new normal. “Scanxiety” is real, and mental health deserves the same attention as labs and scans.
Asking for help is strength. Accepting support actually speeds healing—physically and emotionally.
Identity shifts happen (body image, fertility, masculinity). Talking about them openly makes them less heavy and helps others feel seen.
Purpose helps. Advocacy gave me a way to turn a bad chapter into a useful one for someone else.
Humor isn’t fluff—it’s a coping tool. It makes hard conversations possible and keeps people listening long enough to learn something life‑saving.
What would you say to someone just diagnosed with testicular cancer?
You’re not alone—and this is highly curable. Most men do very well, especially with early, guideline‑based care.
If you can, bank sperm before surgery/chemo. Future‑you will thank present‑you.
Bring a notebook and a buddy to appointments. Ask about stage, tumor markers (AFP, beta‑hCG, LDH), and the plan (surgery, BEP/EP chemo, surveillance, or RPLND).
Take side effects seriously but proactively: anti‑nausea meds on schedule, hydrate like it’s your job, move a little daily, and call your team if something feels off.
Plug into community (survivor groups/mentors). The road is easier when someone a few steps ahead walks it with you.
How important is it for men to talk about their health?
Critical. Silence delays diagnosis – and later stages mean tougher treatments.
Talking normalizes self‑exams, primary care visits, and mental health check‑ins. It also gives partners/caregivers a clear role.
When guys share, other guys listen. That’s how we shift “I’m fine” culture into “I’ll get that checked.”
Five products I loved (or wish I’d had) during my cancer journey
Port pillow seatbelt cushion
A small pillow really helps with car rides on the way home from chemo.
Supportive Underwear/Jockstrap
Reduces pain and movement after orchiectomy; everyday comfort matters.
Big Water bottle with straw
Dehydration is chemo’s side‑kick; a straw helps when you’re nauseous.
