• About Male Cancer »
• Testicular Cancer »
• Read our stories »
• Elliot Dash

READ MY STORY - ELLIOT DASH

When and where did you first notice signs of your cancer? Was there something out of the ordinary that prompted you to check yourself/ see your GP? 

I became ill one day and went to the doctor who sent me for some tests. Initially I was told I had pleurisy and was treated for this. After still not recovering I was sent for further x-rays when they confirmed it was cancer.

Did you check yourself regularly or were you aware of the signs and symptoms of male cancer before you were diagnosed?

I did check myself however was unable to detect the lump which turned out to be very small.

How did you feel when you were first diagnosed? Did your feelings change during your treatment?

Shocked!!
After denial and anger I realized the only way I was going to beat this was to try and be positive. 

Please give us a brief explanation of your treatment

I had 5 cycles of treatment which consisted of 3-5 days in the hospital followed by 1-2 weeks to recover at home although I ended up spending 90% of the time hospitalized due to infections.  Subsequently I also had an operation to remove all old scare tissue.

Was there a particularly difficult or distressing part of your treatment or your cancer journey? 

It was pretty much difficult throughout especially as I became weaker and lost weight. The side effects were quite horrendous and at one time I spent nearly a month in hospital!

What is the most important thing your family and friends did to support you?

Just being there throughout with words of support or visits to St Bart’s Hospital and at home.

Do you believe the experience has changed you as a person? If so, in what way?

Absolutely!! This is my second chance in life. I certainly look at life differently now and realize what is important.

What medical or emotional support would you like to be offered in the future to support you after your treatment ends?

My treatment was over 10 years ago and I have had fantastic support throughout this time including the doctors and from Orchid.

What would be your message to other men affected by male cancer? What would be your message to their partners?

Never give up and always believe anything is possible! 

Stay positive and strong and be a tower of support