The owner of Heck sausages has launched a testicular cancer campaign alongside a Scots charity after his own scare nine years ago.
Jamie Keeble was diagnosed with the disease after he discovered a lump in his testicles in 2015. The co-founder of the popular meat brand immediately booked an appointment with his GP before undergoing treatment.
Jamie has since recovered and recently became a dad. In light of Men’s Health Month, the dad-of-one will be changing the name of his Yorkshire sausage and burger firm from HECK! to CHECK! on its chicken sausage packs throughout November.
The move, in partnership with Scottish charity Cahonas, which aims to raise awareness about testicular cancer, comes after a survey revealed that nearly a quarter of men in the UK never or rarely examine themselves because they don’t know how to check properly. In the UK, testicular cancer is diagnosed in around 2,300 people every year and is the number one cancer diagnosed in those aged between 15 and 34.
Jamie said: “This research shows that awareness is key, which is why we’re launching our CHECK! campaign this November. Testicular cancer is on the rise and men can reduce their chances of dying simply by knowing what to feel for.
“I found a small lump, immediately went to my GP and received my diagnosis. Even though a lot of stigma surrounds going to the doctor for such an intimate area, it’s vital to be proactive if you find a lump.
“I am completely recovered now and my wife and I recently celebrated the birth of our first child, which is amazing. Sadly, our research shows too many men would ignore it if they found something unusual and that many are unsure how to correctly check themselves. Our campaign aims to raise awareness, remove stigmas and get the subject of this disease discussed more openly, so that more men will check themselves and feel comfortable coming forward to talk to someone if something doesn’t feel right.”
The special edition packs will carry QR codes directing people to the Cahonas website, where they can find life-saving information on how to check themselves. A percentage of the sales from each pack will also be donated to Cohonas.
Ritchie Marshall, Founder and CEO of Cahonas, said: “We’re thrilled to partner with HECK as they rebrand to CHECK for November. This campaign has the potential to spark vital conversations about men’s health in supermarkets across the country. Our mission is to raise awareness of Testicular Cancer and encourage men to take action. Early detection is key, as it leads to more effective treatment and higher survival rates. HECK has found a fun and impactful way to share this important message, and we hope everyone joins in by learning how to self-check and spread the word. Every check could make a life-changing difference.”
HECK! has also created a page on its website with a link to Cahonas for people to get more information.
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