intro

[jimmy]

Hi everybody,

To make a long story short, I found out as an adolescent that I had only one testicle. Appeared to be result of a hydrocele as a newborn, but the medical reports were very limited. Then at about 30 years of age, I developed TC in my remaining testicle and had to have that removed. That was tough, and still bothers me b/c of the whole loss of manhood thing. Is there anybody out there that can relate. I've been using androgel for years and it works well. My energy and sex drive are good. I just sometimes feel like I have this secret that I have to live with. Thanks for listening and I look forward to any feedback.

Jimmy

[Fed]

Hey Jimmy,
Welcome to the Forums, albeit mixed with a little regret that we keep getting new members. There are several members here that have gone through TCx2 which, although not the same as you case, have a similar end result. I'm sure they will be able to chime in. If anything, coming here is a good step for helping get these things out... it will probably make you feel worse if you keep them bottled up. Stay strong,

[Karen]

Welcome Jimmy, unfortunately. As Fed stated, you are not alone in this and I'm sure you'll get feedback on your questions, which are not at all unusual. I'm glad the androgel is working and you are feeling good. If you haven't done so, browse through this site as well as http://tcrc.acor.org/tctwo.html for first hand experiences.

[Mom]

Hey Jimmy, my husband was born with an undecedended testicle and a hernia. At five years old C. Everett Koop, former US surgeon general, operated on him to repair the hernia and bring down the remaining testicle. By that time, whatever was there at atrophied to nothing. He had no problem through puberty, he did have a low sperm count but we were able to conceive. At 35, he was diagnosed with TC (non-semimona) and his remaining testicle was removed. He has been on TRT since then and believe me, the replacement therapy and delivery system has certainly improved. He has lived a very full and successful life. Even though he didn't want a prosthesis, the doctor felt that he might have psychological problems without having something. So he had two testicles implanted. He never had two to begin with so that was an adjustment. I think he would have preferred to have nothing but they are there and he is now used to them. Do you have a prosthesis? Do you think you could benefit from having one? My husband has never had a manhood issue but he has had some psychological ups and downs associated with low testosterone and has had his TRT adjusted occasionally. How old are you now? Are you married? It's up to you whether you want your situation to be a secret or not. We have never kept it a secret and of course there were always questions regarding sex, but I would prefer the questions be asked than there be speculation on the part of those who are asking. There are benefits to being on Androgel at 63 because there are all kinds of ED issues at that age. Balls don't make the man just as I hope breasts and ovaries don't make the woman. My husband would be happy to talk to you directly if you want. Dianne

[MRMRSU]

Hi Jimmy: I just wanted to let you know from a 30-something woman's point of view, that there are still plenty of us who believe in the romantic notion that a big heart trumps big balls!!!!! (Oh my gosh, Scott if that's inappropriate to say just delete this whole thing!). Had I met my sweet husband Andy after 1-less (or 2-less for that matter), I still wouldn't have passed up the chance to be with someone who is so incredibly full of character.

I love what Dianne said in her post because it's full of hope and good advice.

Cancer doesn't define you, your character does. I wish you much success with your HRT, and another wish for the day when you won't feel so burdened (regardless of keeping this to yourself or not.)

[Margaret]

Hi Jimmy: I just wanted to let you know from a 30-something woman's point of view, that there are still plenty of us who believe in the romantic notion that a big heart trumps big balls!!!!! (Oh my gosh, Scott if that's inappropriate to say just delete this whole thing!). Had I met my sweet husband Andy after 1-less (or 2-less for that matter), I still wouldn't have passed up the chance to be with someone who is so incredibly full of character.

I love what Dianne said in her post because it's full of hope and good advice.

Cancer doesn't define you, your character does. I wish you much success with your HRT, and another wish for the day when you won't feel so burdened (regardless of keeping this to yourself or not.)

Maria, I just love you...you are too funny!!

But on a serious note, she is right, 100%! Women will care about you, not how many testicles you have...and if they do care, they are not worth the trouble.

Dianne's post was so great and full of wonderful information. That was great of her to share that and I hope it will help you.

[MRMRSU]

Hi Margaret: Right back at you!