An App to Save Your Son's Life

November 22, 2011, By Jim Higley 1 comment

Jim Higley

My high school son loves his smartphone. He also loves the 62 apps on that smartphone.

Conversely, I don't love all of the 62 applications that often get between him and the rest of the world. But I do love him.

So that's why I'm suggesting he get app number 63. Today.

It's called Single Jingles.

You're thinking this is an app that plays holiday songs, right? Nope. Maybe a motion-sensitive app that turns his phone into a handheld electronic maraca? Wrong again.

Single Jingles is an app that could save your son's life.

Specifically, it's a terrific new application that will remind your son—and any young man—to perform a monthly self-examination on his testicles. The app includes easy-to-understand instructions and plain-talk information about testicular cancer all guys need to know.

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in males ages 15 to 35. Unfortunately, when most people look at that age range, they think this is a disease guys in their twenties need to worry about. Unfortunately, there are plenty of moms and dads of teenage boys who know otherwise.

Just ask Matt Ferstler, founder of Single Jingles, the non-profit testicular cancer support and education group behind the app.

"We field questions every day from people facing a new diagnosis of testicular cancer," said Ferstler. "But some of our most gut-wrenching conversations are with the parents of younger boys. Many of those kids, and their parents, had no idea this was something they should be on the lookout for."

Boys born with undescended testicles or a family history of testicular cancer are at a greater risk for the disease. It's critical for parents to talk to their son's pediatrician if either of these conditions exist.

It's also critical that all parents educate their preteen and teenage sons about the importance of monthly self-examinations. It's a habit that, when started early, can save their lives. That's where the Single Jingles app and website come in.

"Testicular cancer is nearly 100% curable if it's caught early," explains Ferstler. Unfortunately, most guys ignore some of the early warning signs (including a lump or swelling in the testicle, a dull pain, a change in size, or a hardening). For many, by the time they seek medical help, the cancer has spread to other parts of the body including lymph nodes, abdomen, lungs and brain.

In addition to the smartphone app, Single Jingles offers free shower cards with the same information included on the app.

"It's such a simple reminder," states Ferstler. "But the sooner we start talking about testicular cancer with young guys, the more likely we are to save lives."

The Single Jingles website sums it up best, perhaps. "Man Up. Check 'Em."

Now go download their app.