Having a Ball, Joseph Barnes Association for Testicular Cancer Awareness

Having a Ball – The Joseph Barnes Association for Testicular Cancer Awareness is a Swiss non-profit organisation dedicated to cancer prevention and early detection through increased awareness of testicular cancer. Based in Neuchâtel, the Association works nationally to reduce delayed diagnosis by encouraging self-examination, early consultation and open discussion of men’s health. It is the only organisation in Switzerland devoted exclusively to testicular cancer awareness.The Association was founded in June 2023 by the family and friends of Joseph Barnes, a Canadian living in Neuchâtel, following his death from metastatic testicular cancer in 2022. The name reflects the Having a Ball podcast series he created during his illness to document his experience and promote awareness of early detection.Having a Ball contributes to cancer control through education, stigma reduction and community-based prevention initiatives targeting primarily young and middle-aged men. The Association provides clear, medically validated information on symptoms, diagnosis and treatment through multilingual educational materials, public presentations, outreach activities and digital communication. A central component of its work is the organisation of free screening and awareness events known as Check Your Balls Days, held in multiple Swiss cities in collaboration with medical specialists. These events provide accessible urological consultations and practical information in a welcoming environment designed to reach men who might otherwise hesitate to seek medical advice. Through partnerships with healthcare professionals, universities, cancer organisations and corporate health programmes, Having a Ball supports national cancer prevention efforts and promotes earlier diagnosis of testicular cancer. By increasing awareness and reducing taboos around men’s health, the Association aims to improve outcomes and contribute to reduced cancer burden through earlier detection.