In this morning’s sports news is an announcement that Ivan Basso had to withdrawal from the Tour de France because he has been diagnosed with testicular cancer. At 37 he is outside of what is considered the typical range for testicular cancer. That range varies but is somewhere in the neighborhood of 15-34. My brother Kevin was 36 when he was diagnosed and my brother Doug was 46.

Testicular cancer is highly treatable, however, like many cancers, it is best if caught early. While “Movember” – where men are encouraged not to shave in order to raise money and awareness for prostate and testicular cancer- is gaining in popularity, we still have a long way to go. For example – why does the NFL wear pink during the month of October but misses the opportunity to educate men by, at the very least, participating in “Movember?”

We wish Ivan Basso the best in his treatment and recovery and would like to take this opportunity to spread the word and remind men that it is important to check themselves (and not just between the ages of 15-35).

Follow the link for a guide on how to do a self exam. http://www.lovemyballs.com/uploads/Self_Exam_Flyer.pdf