“It’s important not to give up—today, cancer is not a death sentence, but a chronic illness”

Can you tell us about your medical story—how did it all start, and what were the first symptoms that led you to visit a urologist?
It all started around 10–11 years ago when we decided to investigate why one of my testicles wasn’t in its usual position. The urologist immediately referred me for a CT scan. The results showed that one testicle hadn’t descended—but nothing more. At the time, the urologist outlined two options: either remove it during surgery or keep it under active surveillance. We decided to leave it as it was and monitor it regularly. But as is often the case with us men—if it doesn’t hurt, we keep putting it off, even when regular checkups are recommended.

This winter, while doing some housework, I lifted a TV I’d lifted dozens of times before. The next day, I noticed a lump in my groin. I didn’t think much of it. But the next morning at work, I began feeling unwell, and the pain worsened. After a full set of tests, the result: a groin hernia and a suspected tumor in the undescended testicle.

What treatment was prescribed, and how did you feel during it?
The two weeks it took to complete all the necessary tests were difficult—I could barely walk, got tired quickly from the pain, and the maximum weight I could lift was 3 kg. After receiving the CT scan results and undergoing a second biopsy (the first biopsy had hit a necrotic, misleading area), I was referred to a medical oncologist, and chemotherapy began.

The goal was to reduce the size of the tumor, which was 6 x 11 cm and pressing on the bladder and intestines. A strong 4-cycle chemotherapy plan was initiated. Fortunately, once chemo started, I began to feel better, and my symptoms eased. Even after the first week, I could already lift more, walk more easily, and sleep longer without waking from pain or the need to urinate. Night sweats—another symptom of this diagnosis—significantly decreased.

During chemotherapy, I felt good, had a strong appetite (which was never a problem before), and I didn’t experience any nausea at all. As of today, having just finished my chemotherapy cycle, I’d say I feel normal—as if nothing had happened, even though the surgery hasn’t taken place yet.

What challenges and positives have you experienced in the treatment process?
I’d say the treatment and tests were carried out quite promptly and effectively. Of course, some unexpected, individual issues came up. For instance, halfway through treatment, I developed an allergy to one of the medications. But since I had only three weeks of that medication left, we didn’t stop it.

I believe treatment can be adapted during the process depending on the patient's specific reactions or side effects.

How did you feel when you heard the diagnosis?
Coming back from the National Cancer Center, I had mixed feelings. But after some reflection, I mentally prepared myself—everything is going to be fine. I want to live another 50 years, see my grandkids, raise my child. It’s important not to give up—today, cancer is not a death sentence but a chronic illness. There are many other diseases that people die from. Sixty years ago, we would have all been written off with this kind of diagnosis. But medicine has come a long way—it’s possible to recover.

What were your initial concerns upon diagnosis—testicle removal, chemotherapy, fertility, sex life?
Of course, I had concerns about fertility and my intimate life, but the doctors reassured me that everything would be fine after treatment and surgery. Before beginning treatment, I had my sperm frozen—just in case, since we plan to have another child.

As for the removal of the undescended testicle—there was no other option. Regarding intimacy—nothing has changed. I also had people around me who had undergone chemotherapy, so I was familiar with the potential side effects and was more or less mentally prepared.

How did your loved ones react? Did you receive support?
My wife and in-laws were the first to learn about my diagnosis. It really affected my father-in-law—he finally decided to seek help for his own health issues. My parents only found out after the New Year, as I didn’t want to ruin the holidays. Most people who learned about it were supportive and offered advice, but I believe you should discuss everything directly with your treating doctor.

Did the illness or treatment disrupt your daily life, habits, hobbies, or work?
After learning about the illness, I didn’t take sick leave. I told my employer that as long as I could move and work, I would do so. If I felt worse, I’d go home or take time off. I believe it’s not healthy to stay at home between four walls during treatment—it only leads to negative thoughts.

So, on my days off, I worked. For tests or chemo sessions, I used vacation days. Over these months, I’ve learned to adapt to life changes—to live with less stress, look at things more calmly, worry less about trivial matters, and enjoy life and its simple routines. This kind of diagnosis reminds you that life is short, nothing lasts forever, and there’s no need to rush through life. One thing I do miss is being able to go to the sauna.

What would you wish for others facing illness? What helps during moments of weakness?
For those facing a similar diagnosis, I would say—don’t give up. Everything will be okay. You need to reflect and set new goals in life and pursue them. Personally, self-development books, motivational audio, and seminars help me a lot. On harder days, don’t isolate yourself. Spend time with close friends, go to public events, or spend lots of time in nature.

What could help men be more attentive to their health and visit doctors more regularly for preventive checkups?
Men need ongoing encouragement and reminders to visit doctors, not to delay, to talk openly, and to learn about the importance of regular health checkups. There’s far too little discussion about men’s health issues—it’s a taboo for many.

We’re always rushing, don’t have time, and postpone things until the last moment. I’m no exception. I should have been getting checked regularly, but I didn’t visit a urologist for ten years. I kept putting it off, even though I had symptoms for a year—frequent night urination and sweating during sleep—but I didn’t take them seriously.

When I was undergoing biopsies, I spoke with a few other cancer patients—that was also helpful. It turns out that regular blood and urine tests don’t always show early signs of disease. Those changes are usually caught only when you start investigating a specific area.

What role does open communication and cooperation between doctor and patient play in healing?
It’s very important to communicate, to discuss, to look for solutions together, and to do what needs to be done. You can’t hide anything—you need to share everything in detail so that your doctor can prescribe the most accurate and effective treatment.

Such communication is essential for a smooth treatment process. If you have questions—don’t be afraid to ask. Nothing is taboo.

Do you think masculinity stereotypes in Lithuania help or hinder men in seeking medical help on time? Why do men delay going to the doctor?
In Lithuania, masculinity stereotypes still definitely hinder men from seeking medical help in time. They delay—and sometimes it ends up being too late. I think a lot of men are afraid that going to the doctor might mean problems with intimacy or fertility.

But if you close your eyes to the problem, it doesn’t go away—it just gets worse. Public education about diseases, diagnosis, treatment, and what to expect during a doctor’s visit would be very helpful. The more people know, the less fear they’ll have, and the easier it will be to take that first step.