A Blackwood father-of-two has a TV show to thank after watching a Love Island contestant talking about testicular cancer, that ultimately led to his own diagnosis.

Jonathan Gomez is sharing his story as part of Testicular Cancer Awareness Month and to highlight how early detection is key.

Jonathan, 55, who works for food group Dunbia UK, explained: “I was on a work trip away, when I discovered a lump which didn’t feel right following a run earlier that day. I got back to my hotel room and realised I should get it checked out as it felt unusual.

“The show was about men’s health and the importance of checking yourselves for lumps and signs which felt unusual that I thought I should see my GP.

“I do a lot of cycling, so it’s not unusual to feel a few bumps and bruises, but this felt different,” he said.”

Despite his concerns that it might be testicular cancer, his GP had given him a prescription for antibiotics and also had booked him in for an Ultrasound scan to check out the lump.

“I was told that my scan would be in two months’ time as it was marked as non-urgent. I had private medical insurance, so I decided I would go private and get it checked out sooner.”

Following an ultrasound and CT scan, results confirmed it was testicular cancer and Jonathan underwent an operation soon after to remove the tumour.

As Jonathon was on a surveillance programme, he underwent regular checks to ensure the cancer had been dealt with. But it was in 2022 when one of those checks found that a lymph node was enlarged that he underwent chemotherapy and 15 rounds of radiotherapy to destroy any further cancer cells.

As he was a keen cyclist and runner, it was around this time that he read Lance Armstrong’s story which was both an inspiration and a testament in dealing with a cancer diagnosis. 

As a result, Jonathan has taken part in many charity runs and cycle rides, determined to give back to charities that have helped him along the way. He has already completed two Marathon Eyrir's and also a Cardiff to Tenby cycle ride, a sport he loves.

This October he will be taking on his third Marathon Eryri for us.

He explains: “Tenovus Cancer Care were always on my radar when I took part in Marathon Eryri and as a Welsh charity helping everyone affected by cancer, I knew their specialist support was helping communities through its range of services.

"My experience has taught me that awareness and education is vital in detecting cancer in the human body. If you are in anyway concerned or unsure about your health, it is essential that you contact your GP in the first instance no matter how small.

“Detecting cancer early gives a better chance of treatment and surviving it. One in two of us will get cancer which is high, but rest assured there will always be treatment and support available from charities such as Tenovus Cancer Care to help you and your family through.”