I am taking my story of kicking cancers ass to Camp Tazo, an adult camp for the brand Tazo Tea hosted by Rupaul’s Drag Race Superstar, Alyssa Edwards. I was diagnosed with stage 1 testicular cancer at the age of 24 and have been in remission for about 3 years. I hope to use the amazing platform of Camp Tazo to help create more awareness about the warning signs I experienced and the challenges of fighting cancer.

It all started back in the spring of 2013. I had just moved to Philadelphia from California to build a life with the one I love. I didn’t have a college degree and was struggling to find a full-time job. I took the first decent position that was offered, which was valet parking. I wasn’t just parking nice cars and collected tips though. It involved lots of running in uncomfortable black dress pants rain or shine. One day, I noticed that I felt heavier in my crotch area. It was painful to continue running for these cars, but I was one of the few that knew how to drive a manual so I sucked it up for another week or so. Eventually, I consulted my partner on the issue and we both did inspections on my friends down under. I was immediately shocked, concerned, and anxious when i discovered a lump on my left testical. What did I do? I lost control, bursted into tears and I asked myself the typical question; “why me?”

I didn’t have health insurance. I was at a point in my life where I was trying to prove my independence to my parents. My parents were always strict with me, always teaching me to work hard and provide for myself. So, I went to my local free clinic to check out my situation. The doctor at the free clinic got nervous when feeling around under the hood. She told me “Don’t freak out, I’m not 100% what this is. You are going to have to see a specialist.” I’m thinking to myself, how am I going to pay for this? She wrote me a referral and I was able to see a specialist for free. These places I’ve visited weren’t the nicest or cleanest places in healthcare. I remember feeling sympathy for those who have to regularly visit these free clinics but thanking God for having them. After waiting 2 hours in the specialist lobby, they called me in for an ultrasound. I remember they repeatedly said “you’ll be fine, i’m sure it’s nothing.” But, it was something. Something that was going to change my life forever. I could see the worry in my technicians face as he rubbed that wand against my groin with the cold ultrasound gel. He stepped outside for a minute and returned with 4 others. The woman doctor gave me some water, told me to remain seated, and delivered the news. “You most likely have testicular cancer,” she said while holding my hand. She got crickets from me. I didn’t know what to say. “We’re not sure what stage it’s in, you’re going to need to have the testicle removed so we can further diagnose it.” Still in shock, I nodded my head and thought “Ugh, I don’t even have insurance. How am I going to pay for this?” That’s sick right? Why am I thinking about payment right now? I should be thinking about how I’m going to survive this.

Finally, I broke down and called my dad for help. After talking and crying, he calmed me down and told me “Don’t worry Jasper, you can get on my insurance because of Obama Care that was just implemented.” I remember thinking that it was too good to be true but he was right. Thanks Obama! I quickly jumped on his insurance and scheduled an appointment with a specialist from Penn Medicine. They too were also concerned that the lump was cancerous, but couldn’t be sure what stage it was until the testicle was removed and examined. Scheduling that surgery triggered a series of traumatic events that I’ll have to endure for the rest of my life.   

As I looked down the road ahead of me, I realized that I’d have to be strong not only for myself but for those watching me. I wasn’t going to allow this battle to interfere with my life. I continued to work, I started taking classes in Marketing and I posted my experiences online for others to see. I feel that it is important to spread awareness and be an example for those going through the same thing.

My story was recognized by the producers of Camp Tazo, and I look forward to share more about my experiences there. If you or a loved one is currently fighting cancer, I only hope that I’m able be someone you look up to during the dark times cancer puts you through. That’s what motivates me to stay healthy, remain aware, and stay positive. Stay tuned for more posts about the struggles of being a cancer victim.