As we enter April, in the world of local charity, It's in the Bag, this can only mean one thing. Testicular Cancer Awareness Month.
We have worked with It's in the Bag to help spread their message for a whopping 15 years and it's time we make our relationship official. As of April 2025, we are the official sponsors of It's in the Bag's cycling tour Le Tour de Balls Quatre, and we are thrilled to shout about it. Just in time for their 10th anniversary as an independent charity and Testicular Cancer Awareness Month.
Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men aged 15-49, yet awareness still has its stigmas, but charities like It's in the Bag are reaching out more than ever before to encourage regular checking and early detection.
“Awareness is key to the early diagnosis of testicular cancer, which is 96% curable when detected early. We are the only charity to provide self-checking cards, so the more awareness we raise, the more lives we save” - It's In The Bag
Checking yourself regularly is simple and can be life-saving. It's recommended that men check their testicles once a month, ideally after a warm shower or bath when the scrotal skin is relaxed.
Here's how:
Hold your testicle between your thumb and fingers, rolling it gently.
Look for any unusual lumps, swelling, or changes in size or shape.
Be aware of any heaviness or dull aches in your lower abdomen or groin.
If you notice anything unusual, see your doctor as soon as possible.
It's In The Bag is the only charity to provide self-checking cards, ensuring people have a simple reminder to stay on top of their health. Their original “Keep Calm and Check His/Your/Their Balls” message has since evolved to be more inclusive, ensuring that no one feels unsupported when discussing such a vital topic.
It's In The Bag has continued to push their boundaries through printed materials and organising a range of events. They attend sporting events, Bristol Pride, schools & colleges, workplaces, and produce the only testicular cancer awareness music festival in the UK. These efforts ensure they reach everyone. They couple their attendance at these events with unique printed materials, which solidifies their messaging in people's minds and creates a long-lasting impression. They also provide information packs and leaflets for those affected by the disease to help with initial anxiety and worry about the disease and treatment.
To further help raise awareness, many well-known figures have stepped forward to share their experiences. Recently, Capital DJ Chris Stark was diagnosed with testicular cancer, bringing renewed attention to the importance of self-checking. Back in the 2000s, DJ Carl Cox helped promote testicular cancer awareness through clubbing events.
These stories highlight how testicular cancer affects people from all walks of life and why we must continue to raise awareness.
It's In The Bag is a locally based charity that really understands the needs of people in the South West of England. This month they have worked with us to produce their DON'T BOTTLE IT! campaign, where we have printed beer mats, posters and flyers with a not so subtle message. Their work ensures that the message of self-checking reaches people directly in our community, helping to save lives through printed materials, awareness campaigns, and events.
How can you support It's In The Bag?
This year marks the 10th anniversary of It's In The Bag as an independent charity, and their upcoming “Le Tour de Balls Quatre” cycling event is set to be a major fundraiser. Covering 300 miles in 3 days, the ride will raise much-needed funds and awareness for testicular cancer. Any support leading up to this big event will go a long way in helping their mission.
To read more or donate, click here
We are proud to support It's in the Bag in their mission to raise awareness and save lives. Thank you to all our clients for your continued support; it's because of you that we can help spread this vital message.
And remember: DON'T BOTTLE IT! CHECK YOUR BALLS!