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Every November, Beard Patrol unites men across the country to grow beards, start conversations, and raise awareness for testicular cancer — the most common cancer in young men.
This month, we’re spotlighting firefighter Robert Romo, whose story is a powerful reminder that awareness isn’t just about talking — it’s about taking action.
Because one small moment of awareness — one email, one self-check — can save a life.
In November 2024, Robert made a commitment to take better care of himself. At 35, his body was feeling the wear and tear of years on the job. That’s when a random HFBA email caught his attention:
“Firefighters are twice as likely to get testicular cancer compared to the general population.”
That statistic stopped him in his tracks.
A week later, following their self-exam guide, Robert noticed a dull ache in his left testicle. Not constant. Not sharp. Just… different.
He almost ignored it. Almost.
At his next checkup, he mentioned it to his doctor — who told him it was “probably a varicocele” and to ice it. But something in Robert’s gut told him to push harder.
He insisted on an ultrasound and bloodwork. When the results came in, his world stopped:
“Highly suspicious of carcinoma.”
His doctor called from vacation to apologize and refer him to a urologist. The earliest appointment? Six weeks away.
That wasn’t going to cut it.
The next day, Robert told one of his medic school instructors, who connected him with a trusted urologist near MountainView Hospital. He called, showed up, and was seen immediately.
After reviewing his scans, the urologist said the words no one expects to hear:
“There’s a 90% chance this is cancer. We can’t biopsy — it has to come out.”
Surgery was set for early January.
The weeks before surgery were filled with questions and long nights. Robert felt isolated — not afraid of dying, but afraid of what he might lose: his identity, his masculinity, his sense of self.
Late one night, while researching, he found the Testicular Cancer Foundation (TCF). For the first time, he read stories from other men who’d walked the same path — same fears, same unknowns. That connection changed everything.
By April, Robert attended the TCF Summit, where what began as late-night reading turned into real friendships and a sense of purpose.
Gratitude carried him into the operating room — gratitude that he’d listened to his body and pushed for answers.
Surgery went smoothly. His girlfriend, Bianca, took incredible care of him during recovery. Within days, he was back at medic school on light duty, surrounded by support from classmates and instructors.The pathology confirmed Stage IB Seminoma. Clean removal. No spread.
After weighing his options, Robert chose active surveillance — regular scans and check-ins for five years.
Ten months later, he remains cancer-free.
“I almost didn’t speak up.
I almost let a doctor wave it off.
I almost became a statistic.”
Testicular cancer is 99% beatable when caught early — but only if you check yourself, trust your gut, and speak up.
“We’re not less of a man because of what we lose,” Robert says.
“We’re more of one because of what we face.”
And as for humor? He takes it in stride.
“Apparently, I’m now lightweight, high-speed, low-drag,” he laughs.
“But I wouldn’t trade surviving this for anything.”
To his fire family — and to every man out there — Robert’s message is simple:
Don’t ignore that email.
Don’t dismiss that ache.
Don’t let pride keep you from checking what’s yours.
“Be your own advocate. Your life is worth it. Your family deserves it. So do you.
If you ever need someone to talk to — questions, fears, or just to laugh about it — I’m here.
Still fully operational, just a little more aerodynamic.”
At Beard Patrol, we believe awareness is action. Every story shared sparks a conversation that could save someone’s life.
So this November, take a moment. Do your monthly self-exam. Talk to your crew. Remind the guys around you that early detection changes everything.
Check yourself. Talk about it. Share your story.
That’s Beard Patrol.
The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog.
The authors of this blog do not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned on the blog. Reliance on any information provided by this blog is solely at your own risk.
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