A father from Devon has revealed how a television programme presented by Jeremy Clarkson directly led to a life-saving cancer diagnosis, inspiring him to launch a unique awareness campaign.
From TV Screen to Life-Saving Check
Andy Hood, a 53-year-old father of three from Barnstaple, was watching an episode of The Grand Tour when presenters Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May discussed the importance of men checking for testicular and prostate cancer. The segment resonated with Andy, who had noticed he was needing to urinate more frequently during the night.
Prompted by the show's message, he examined himself and discovered a lump. This crucial self-check led him to visit his GP, resulting in a diagnosis of testicular cancer. Andy underwent surgery to remove a testicle and a course of chemotherapy, ultimately overcoming the disease.
Turning Adversity into Action with 'Check Ya Balls'
Determined to turn his frightening experience into a force for good, Andy has channelled his energy into helping other men. He has launched his own line of underwear, cheekily named 'Check Ya Balls', designed to serve as a humorous but vital reminder for men to perform regular self-examinations.
The underwear features original cartoon characters and carries a serious message about men's health. "I decided to turn something rubbish into something powerful - a mission to get men talking, opening up, and most importantly… giving the boys a regular check," Andy stated.
The venture is also raising significant funds for charity. In its first month, over 150 pairs were sold, with 60% of the proceeds being donated to the Robin Cancer Trust and Cahonas charities.
A Lifelong Debt and a Warning to Others
Andy expresses profound gratitude to the television presenters, crediting them with saving his life. "I will never be able to thank Clarkson, Hammond and May enough," he said. "I know without watching that programme, I would not have checked myself."
He now urges all men to be vigilant, emphasising that his early detection prevented a much more serious outcome. "My message to all is check your testicles - if I hadn't it would have been much, much more serious," he warned. The NHS lists key symptoms of testicular cancer as a lump or swelling, a change in size, an ache or pain in the testicle or scrotum, and a feeling of heaviness.
Andy's goal is ambitious but clear: "My goal is for every guy to own at least one pair and we'll save lives." His campaign has already had an impact, with a message received on Christmas Eve from someone who was prompted to take action after seeing Andy's content.
