Swinging Bells for Balls

Hi, my name is James McConnell.

 

I'm hoping to raise some money for medical costs associated with the recurrence of testicular cancer, while donating money towards the Movember campaign to increase early surveillance, research and overall mens health.

 

My Story:

In 2019, I was diagnosed with Stage 1 testicular cancer that resulted in the removal of a testicle. If it wasn't for the Movember posters in the workplace showers highlighting the "Check your Nuts" protocol then I would have been none the wiser.

In the two years since I have undergone regular surveillance and unfortunately on routine scans an enlarged lymph node was discovered, highlighting the likely spread of this cancer.

 

As a result this will mean either a further and more extensive surgery or multiple rounds of chemotherapy (3-5 months) that will force me to take time off work.

Working as a Strength & Conditioning Coach/Exercise Scientist I don't have much luxury to work from home, as many of the clientele require face to face sessions for Injury Rehab, Performance Coaching & Concussion Management. Furthermore, this diagnosis puts a hold on my placement studies towards being an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, which delays my ability to further help people through various pathologies (including Exercise Oncology) once qualified.

 

For those that know me, kettlebells have been a large part of my life. As a result I have progressed towards qualifying and representing Australia in various disciplines.

Although my training will be limited during this phase, I am going to complete a Super Marathon (2 Hours) of continuous kettlebell lifting via Facebook Live on Sunday 9th Jan 2022 AEDT, which is taking place prior to the aforementioned treatments.

 

The aim of the Super Marathon is to increase awareness towards testicular cancer and mens health by donating a percentage of the earnings to Movember, but also to demonstrate my gratitude in the way of doing what I love to anyone willing to donate to helping me through this journey.

Thank you in advance for any support, and especially to those of you that have helped me make the decision to step out of my comfort zone, including being vulnerable which may make a difference to someone's life in the future.

 

Regards,

James