It was when their strapping, 18-year-old eldest son, Harrison (Harry), was told he had testicular cancer.

“Everything changed and we suddenly entered this never-ending round of tests and appointments and treatments,” his mother Jodi told the Guardian.

“It all started when Harry was kicked in the groin last May while playing footy.

“We visited specialists and had ultra sounds and doctors assured us the chance of that causing cancer was a million to one ... but in January the cancer markers were there.

“It is also possible the kick was the alert to something already there.”

Within a week of his diagnosis Harry had surgery.

A week later he was in Sydney having his sperm frozen.

And a week after that he started his chemo treatment, of which he is halfway through the third cycle.

Asked how they are coping, Jodi said they are a strong family and they laugh a lot.

“We cry a lot too ... but we make the most of every day and so far Harry is responding really well.

“It has been very exhausting for everyone - treatment is in Coffs, which is a long drive from Scotts Head.

“We have been really lucky - I’ve had fantastic support from work and been able to take lots of time off.

“But it does upset me to think there are many families for whom that might not be possible.”

It was in this spirit of helping others that the Youngs started their 

‘#checkyanuts’ campaign, to raise awareness about testicular cancer and encourage young men to check themselves.

“Boys need to be taught not to be embarrassed because early detection makes all the difference.”

‘#checkyanuts’ stickers, t-shirts and stubby holders have also been created with money raised going towards petrol vouchers for local families travelling to and fro for treatments.

“The government helps but it is later rather than sooner.

“My aim was to raise $800 ... but we’ve actually raised over $4000.

“The ‘Can Do’ Foundation in Coffs hands out the money to those who need it.”

To show your support - go to ‘checkyanuts’ on Facebook.

Jodi also keeps stock with her at work - McNeills Real Estate in Macksville.

* Friends of the family are planning a Bowls Day to offer their support.

It will be held at Club Scotts on Saturday, June 4.

Bowls will start at 2pm with an auction from 6pm and Lucy’s Sky on stage from 9pm.

Items for auction are welcomed - phone Kristi Ireland on 0403 159 500.