Steven Hamill's Penile Cancer Diagnosis and Life-Changing Surgery
In March 2019, Steven Hamill, then 26, noticed a foul odor emanating from his genitals, which he describes as a 'death smell.' This alarming symptom followed a previous visit to his GP, where swelling of his penis head was dismissed as balanitis, a common infection. However, the persistence of pain and the onset of the smell led to a shocking diagnosis in April: penile cancer, requiring immediate surgical intervention.
The Path to Diagnosis and Surgical Intervention
Steven recalls applying steroid cream for two weeks with no improvement, experiencing intense pain akin to a needle prick. The smell became pervasive, affecting his daily life and even noticeable to others. Despite exhibiting classic signs of penile cancer, his age led doctors to initially rule out cancer, delaying proper treatment. A critical turn occurred when he passed out in his brother's car, waking in a pool of blood, prompting an emergency hospital visit. He was transferred to The Christie NHS Foundation Trust in Manchester, where the diagnosis was confirmed.
To combat the cancer, Steven underwent a partial penectomy, removing four inches of his penis and his foreskin. This procedure, aimed at excising cancerous tissue while preserving healthy parts, left him with a four-inch penis, down from his original eight inches. He considers himself fortunate, as the UK average penis length is 5.63 inches; a smaller starting size might have resulted in more significant functional loss.
Life After Surgery and Raising Awareness
Now in remission, Steven faces emotional challenges, including phantom pains and vivid dreams about his ordeal. His friends humorously nicknamed him 'Stumpy,' but he emphasizes that his penis remains fully functional, allowing him to have a normal sex life and father a four-year-old son. He admits to occasional self-consciousness during intimacy but stresses adaptation and openness with partners.
Steven is dedicated to raising awareness about penile cancer, urging men not to ignore symptoms due to embarrassment. He highlights that cancer can affect any age, contrary to common misconceptions. His advice is straightforward: seek medical attention promptly if something feels off, and don't hesitate to reach out for support.
Key Facts About Penile Cancer
Penile cancer is rare, primarily affecting men over 50, but cases can occur in younger individuals. Symptoms include:
- Growths, lumps, or sores that don't heal within four weeks
- Rashes, bleeding, or smelly discharge
- Difficulty retracting the foreskin (phimosis)
- Changes in skin color on the penis or foreskin
Additional signs may involve lumps in the groin, abdominal pain, fatigue, or weight loss. The NHS advises consulting a doctor if these symptoms appear, though they don't always indicate cancer. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment and better outcomes.
