As I reflect on my journey with the Testicular Cancer Foundation (TCF), I am overwhelmed with gratitude, pride, and a deep sense of purpose.  Not only has TCF grown into a powerful force for awareness, early detection, and support, but it has also become a personal anchor for me —a TC survivor, a father of four, and the Chief Mission Officer of the Testicular Cancer Foundation.

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My Story: From Survivor to Advocate

In many ways, my story is the foundation of my work at TCF. At 19 years old, I was living my dream as a professional cyclist in Europe, enjoying some of the best years of my life. Then, my world came crashing down with three words: “You have cancer.” Testicular cancer—something I had never even considered—entered my life and changed everything.

Like many young men, I didn’t know the warning signs, the risks, or the importance of regular self-exams. The diagnosis and treatment were physically and mentally taxing. During that time, I realized how crucial awareness and education are. I wish I had access to the kinds of support programs TCF now offers to newly diagnosed patients and survivors.

Joining TCF: Finding Purpose

After my recovery, my journey led me to TCF, where I met CEO and Founder Matt Ferstler. He had created an organization that was truly a beacon of hope, doing incredible things within the testicular cancer community. I knew right away that TCF was different. Matt had a clear vision and a deep passion for saving lives, and his commitment to the cause was undeniable. For Matt, TCF wasn’t just about statistics and research—it was about real people, about supporting men and their families through one of the most challenging times of their lives. His dedication to learning from other nonprofit leaders, asking tough questions, and his own firsthand experience with the disease have shaped TCF into what it is today. I’m proud to be part of that legacy.

Serving as TCF’s Chief Mission Officer has been an honor. Every day, I’m proud to work alongside a team that’s changing lives, breaking the stigma surrounding testicular cancer, and building a community of survivors, advocates, and supporters. TCF has given me a platform to share my story and, more importantly, to empower other men to take control and advocate for their own health.

15 Years, 15 Stories: A Milestone Celebration

This year marks a significant milestone—15 years of TCF saving lives and creating a lasting impact. As part of our anniversary, we are highlighting 15 Stories from survivors, caregivers, partners and advocates. Each story is a testament to the courage, resilience, and strength of the testicular cancer community. These voices remind us that cancer is not the end, but the beginning of a new journey.

As I reflect on 15 years of growth, I am energized by what lies ahead. TCF continues to push the envelope with innovative campaigns, programs and services.  At the heart of it all is our community—the survivors, families, advocates, and supporters who make this work possible. You are why we exist. You are why we fight. Together, we’ve built something truly special, and together, we will keep going until every young man understands the importance of a testicular self exam and how to take control of his own health. 

As part of our 15-year celebration, we’ve launched a campaign to raise $15,000 this month to continue providing life-saving resources, education, and support to men facing testicular cancer. Every donation, no matter the size, helps us reach more people and ensure no one has to face this journey alone. Together, we can make an even bigger impact in the fight against testicular cancer.

To all those who have been part of this journey, thank you. Thank you for sharing your stories, for your courage, for your advocacy, and for your support. Here’s to the next 15 years—and beyond.