EPISODE 42 - Henri Lansbury

From the Pitch to the Recovery Room: Henri Lansbury on Testicular Cancer, Stigma & Speaking Up

In this powerful episode of Check One Two – The Lowdown on Testicular Cancer, former Premier League footballer Henri Lansbury opens up about his private battle with testicular cancer. Known for his time at Arsenal, Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa, Henri shares how discovering a lump on his testicle in 2016 became a turning point—not only in his career but in how he approached life, health, and masculinity. Initially brushing it off and keeping quiet due to fears it might affect his contract negotiations, Henri eventually sought medical advice before a holiday—an act that likely saved his life. With honesty and humour, he discusses the emotional rollercoaster of diagnosis, the danger of “toughing it out,” and how speaking up has now inspired others to check themselves.

Henri reflects on the often-overlooked testicular cancer symptoms, the mental load of hiding a testicle lump, and the absence of pain that can lead men to delay seeing a doctor. He talks candidly about how humour helped him cope with the situation, how the diagnosis reshaped his outlook, and why football clubs need to do more to raise male cancer awareness. This episode explores the importance of self-checking, early detection, and open conversations about men’s health, while shining a light on the continued stigma that keeps too many men silent. Whether you’re navigating a diagnosis, supporting someone who is, or simply want to learn how to check your testicles—this honest conversation with Henri is packed with insight, vulnerability, and a call to action.

If you're searching for real testicular cancer stories, NHS cancer support advice, or want to better understand the mental and physical journey of survivorship, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for one of football’s most important off-the-pitch stories—because catching it early could save your life.