Brett Samson’s journey with testicular cancer began when he experienced lower back pain. At first, he brushed it off, thinking it would subside on its own. But the discomfort soon worsened, spreading to his scrotum. Realizing something was seriously wrong, Brett sought help. His trip to urgent care proved fruitless, as they lacked the necessary testing, but a visit to the ER provided clarity: an ultrasound revealed the issue, and he was quickly scheduled for a consultation with a urologist.

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The diagnosis was testicular cancer, and it hit Brett hard. Diagnosed in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, he felt isolated and scared. “I lived alone with no siblings and debated whether to tell my parents, who were in their 70s. I was nervous about increasing their stress,” Brett recalls. Without anyone to turn to, he was left alone with his thoughts, which only deepened his fear and loneliness. It was a period of intense isolation for Brett, and it weighed heavily on him.

Facing the Mental Battle of Chemotherapy

For Brett, the most difficult part of his cancer journey wasn’t just the physical toll, but the mental anguish that followed chemotherapy. “I started having incapacitating, debilitating racing thoughts,” he explains. Before treatment, Brett had never struggled with obsessive thoughts, but chemotherapy brought on relentless mental battles. “Every hour of the day, I was haunted by racing thoughts, focusing on my worst fears for the future. There were days when those thoughts were the only thing in my mind. It’s a miracle I’m here.”

These intrusive thoughts were a unique and unexpected side effect of his cancer treatment, but Brett pushed through, often masking his pain from others. His mental strength was tested in ways that he never anticipated, but he managed to endure those dark days.

A New Outlook on Life

Now in remission, Brett’s perspective on life has changed drastically. He has learned to cherish each moment, understanding how fleeting life can be. He’s looking forward to his future—one filled with love, hope, and new beginnings. “I’m planning on proposing to my wonderful girlfriend, getting a dog, and buying a house,” he shares. Brett is proud of how far he has come, grateful for the strength that got him through the darkest times, and he thanks the Lord for each new day.

The Importance of Asking for Help

Reflecting on his journey, Brett wishes he had reached out for help sooner. “Since my chemotherapy, orchiectomy, and diagnosis occurred during the pandemic, I had nobody by my side during treatments,” he remembers. Feeling isolated, he chose to go through the process alone, but looking back, he encourages others to ask for help. “I really wish I could’ve had companionship during that awful period. Being sequestered during chemotherapy felt like the world was falling on top of me.”

His advice for others is simple but powerful: don’t be afraid to ask for help. Having support can make all the difference during such a difficult time.

Finding a Lifeline in TCF

In his search for guidance, Brett found the Testicular Cancer Foundation (TCF). “After my diagnosis, I scoured the internet for answers, but everything felt like reading a script,” he says. That’s when he discovered TCF and connected with Connor O’Leary, the foundation’s Chief Mission Officer. “TCF saved my life. I love our Thursday Zoom calls, the group chats, summits, and the friendships I’ve fostered.” For Brett, the empathy and connection he found through TCF were instrumental in his recovery. Hearing from others who truly understood his pain was a turning point in his healing process.

Giving Back and Raising Awareness

Inspired by his experience, Brett has channeled his energy into giving back to the cancer community. He regularly participates in races that raise funds for cancer research and hospitals. Recently, he completed his third St. Jude 5K, helping his county raise $200,000 for the hospital. He’s also participated in the March for Cancer 5K for two years and has become a beacon of support for other survivors seeking guidance. He is also a TCF Ambassador and integral part to the TC Community.

A Community of Empathy and Hope

Through TCF, Brett found more than just answers—he found a community. “The level of empathy obtained from being in TCF cannot be articulated,” he says. Being able to connect with other survivors has been a heartening experience for Brett, and it has reaffirmed his passion for giving back. The compassion and support he received from TCF have fueled his desire to help others facing testicular cancer.

A Brighter Tomorrow

For Brett, TCF provided a lifeline when he needed it most. “When I was going through the scariest time of my life, TCF never gave up on me,” he recalls. The foundation’s selfless and compassionate members became a source of inspiration and strength for Brett, guiding him through his darkest days. “Whenever anyone asks me for someone inspirational, strong, and caring, I always point to the gentlemen in TCF.”

Brett Samson’s journey through testicular cancer is a testament to the power of community, empathy, and resilience. Today, he stands as a survivor, ready to give back and share his story with others facing similar battles. With TCF by his side, Brett is hopeful for a brighter future and is committed to helping others find the same strength he discovered through his journey.