About Us
Testicular Cancer NZ – Mate Pukupuku Raho Aotearoa (TCNZ) is the dedicated testicular cancer arm of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand – Te Kahui Mate Pukupuku Repe Tātea o Aotearoa Manatōpū – providing vital support, education and information to individuals, their families and whānau across Aotearoa New Zealand affected by testicular cancer.
TCNZ offers a range of free in-person and online/phone support services that are available to those affected by testicular cancer, including a nurse-led Information Service, Counselling Service and Patient Grants Fund. Call 0800 66 0800 to find out more or visit the Support section of this website.
Education and Awareness
Testicular cancer is primarily a disease (and the most commonly diagnosed) in younger men, typically between the ages of 15 and 44, but can occur at any age. It is highly treatable but may not generate any symptoms in the early stages which is why a monthly self-check regularly is so important. Information is available online, through brochures and posters and through the Information Service.
Men with testicular cancer have to make vitally important decisions about their treatment. They may also have to make important choices and adjustments to enjoy a full life. To do this they need relevant and current information to help them make the decision that is best for them. It is not our role to give you medical advice, but we will guide you to the most appropriate information available. April is International Testicular Cancer Awareness Month and TCNZ joins others around the world in raising awareness.
Our Ambassadors
Aaron Cruden
Aaron Cruden is a New Zealand rugby superstar, known for his tactical flair and exciting skill-set. He has played at every level of the the game, from his debut for the Manawatu Turbos through to Super Rugby and the All Blacks. He was the highest points scorer for the All Blacks 2013 perfect season and has won back-to-back Super Rugby titles, in 2012 and 2013 and was the Top Points Scorer for the 2012 Super Rugby Competition. He is the current captain for the Waikato Chiefs.
In 2008 he was diagnosed with testicular cancer and underwent rigorous treatment that enabled him to overcome the disease. He makes no secret of this and has agreed to be an Ambassador to help raise awareness of testicular cancer among young men in New Zealand.
Tony Marsh
We feel very privileged to have the legendary Tony Marsh as our ambassador for Testicular Cancer NZ . Tony enjoyed a professional rugby career in both New Zealand and then France before ending his playing career in 2007. He then moved on to a coaching role before returning to New Zealand. Tony was diagnosed and treated successfully for testicular cancer while living in France.
Since Tony’s return to NZ he has been involved with Auckland netball, North Harbour rugby referees, NZ trampolinists and is currently the strength & conditioning trainer with NZ Squash.
Jo Stafford
Jo is a survivor of testicular cancer and is passionate about sharing his experience with young men in New Zealand. He tells his story in schools to make people aware of the disease and is also the Chair of the National Cancer Consumer Advisory Group to the Ministry of Health.
He is the father of twin boys and co-director with his wife of Colour Communication, a ‘futures-scenarios’ agency working with corporate New Zealand helping them ‘transact’ with Post Settlement Government Entities (PSGE’s) & Māori, Pasifika & Asian audiences.
Sharing Stories
Our aim is to spread the awareness for boys/men to be aware of any changes in their testicles and also help support them and their family in their journey if diagnosed with testicular cancer. If you would like to share your story then we would like to hear from you. Please email us.
