Norman's story: Testicular cancer and coming out to his dad

Mo Bro Norman Torres is back to share more of his extraordinary story.

“At the age of 17, I had no idea about testicular cancer and the signs of it. Nobody had spoken to me about it before, so that definitely put a delay on the identification of it. The only way I got myself checked out was because of the swift actions my dad took. As a cancer survivor himself, he knew that time is of the essence for any type of health concern, so from one day to the next I was being treated for the tumor I had.

The environment that my family created was always welcoming and accepting. This environment is what allowed me to feel comfortable discussing my symptoms with my parents early on. This environment was what allowed me to feel comfortable coming out as a gay man. Today, this environment is what has allowed me to share struggles with mental health and feel okay with doing so. Now, when I grow my moustache, I use it to display my story and the stories of young men across the world. Everyone has a story, and everyone should be alive to tell it.

My parents’ willingness to stand right alongside me in everything I have done has allowed me to thrive as the individual I am today. With the mission of Movember in mind, being there for others and loving them unconditionally is what will help change the face of men’s health. With June being Pride Month, take time to learn how to be an ally for the LGBTQ+ community, especially the Black LGBTQ+ community. In addition to this, take time to donate to causes like Movember that uplift these voices and spread a message of family.

If you’re feeling anything that’s concerning, mentally or physically, just go get it checked out. Visit your doctor, talk to your family, talk to your friends. Just use your support team.”

Watch more of Norman’s story here.