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A 33-year old man from Greenock is encouraging others to seek medical advice without delay after being diagnosed with testicular cancer while on holiday with his girlfriend last year.
Darren Orr was enjoying a trip abroad when he began experiencing pain, something he initially chose to ignore. However, after returning home - newly engaged - and with symptoms worsening, he was encouraged by his partner to get checked.
That decision proved crucial.
PICTURED: Darren and his Fiancée when he rang the bell.
Darren was diagnosed on 31 July 2025 and underwent surgery the following month, followed by chemotherapy treatment.
“I had been putting it off, thinking it would go away,” Darren said. “It’s a very cliché thing to say, but don’t be embarrassed. I was at the start, and I probably wouldn’t have gone when I did if my girlfriend hadn’t pushed me.”
Following surgery in August, Darren began chemotherapy six weeks later, undergoing an intensive course of treatment over several weeks, including multiple inpatient stays.
“It was tough, especially at the beginning when I didn’t know what to expect,” he said. “But the support I received really helped me through.”
While receiving treatment at The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, Darren found comfort not only from clinical staff but also from volunteers - including one who had experienced the same diagnosis.
“On my first day, I really struggled,” he said. “But I got chatting to one of the Beatson Cancer Charity ward volunteers who had been through exactly the same thing. Hearing his experience helped me deal with my own.”
After completing treatment, Darren received the news he had hoped for — he was in remission by the end of December.
“I found out on 30 December, which was a great way to go into the New Year,” he said. “Now I’m feeling brilliant.”
Determined to give back, Darren and his fiancée have already begun fundraising for Beatson Cancer Charity. The couple recently fundraised at their engagement party and are planning to continue their support on their wedding day.
“Instead of wedding favours, we’re going to have QR codes for donations,” he explained. “It’s our way of saying thank you.”
Now focusing on the future, Darren hopes that sharing his story during Testicular Cancer Awareness Month will encourage others - particularly young men - to take action if something doesn’t feel right.
“I didn’t know anyone my age who had gone through this,” he said. “The only time I’d heard about it was when someone famous had it. If sharing my story helps even one person go and get checked earlier, then it’s worth it.”
A spokesperson for Beatson Cancer Charity said: “Darren’s story highlights just how important it is to listen to your body and seek advice if something doesn’t feel right. We know it can feel difficult or even embarrassing for some men to come forward, but early detection can make a significant difference to outcomes.”
