Humbled by the love and support

In November 2024, Martin noticed signs that something was wrong with his health.

“I started noticing dry crusty blood on my right nipple and blood stains on the bed sheets in the mornings,” says Martin, who lives on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. “By December my nipple was leaking blood during the day and would result in blood stains forming on my shirt.”

Martin’s GP sent him for an ultrasound and mammogram and referred him to the Northern Beaches Breast Clinic.

“Both these tests showed nothing, so my breast specialist sent me for an MRI in January, which showed abnormal cells,” Martin explains. 

“On February 6 I underwent a right breast central duct excision and the pathology results from this procedure identified a 4mm grade 2 invasive carcinoma of no specific type.”

After this diagnosis of breast cancer, Martin underwent a right mastectomy. 

“I was actually at peace with being diagnosed with breast cancer,” he says.

“My specialist had been honest and open, outlining the clear process that we would follow from the first time we met, and my prognosis was good.”

On 8 March, Martin’s specialist let him know that all the cancer had been removed, and he was referred to an oncologist to discuss ongoing treatment.

Martin says both men and women must act if they notice anything that’s not normal for them, whether that’s a lump, breast changes, or even – as he experienced – a bleeding nipple. “Be diligent with your body checks and your health,” he advises.

The position of Martin’s breast cancer, directly behind his nipple, had allowed the blood to escape and alert him that something was wrong.

“Had the cancer been located somewhere else in the breast it may have been difficult to detect,” he says.

Martin has felt compelled to share his story to increase awareness that men can be diagnosed with breast cancer too and is grateful to Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) for amplifying this message. 

“I’ve had both female and male friends admit they were not aware men could get breast cancer, so I want to get my story out there so everyone understands it’s a possibility,” Martin says.

“It could happen to your husband, your partner, your brother, your son, your mate or any male in your life.”

Martin says the support he, his wife Amanda, and their three adult sons have received from their community has been overwhelming. 

“I’ve been humbled by the love and support given to my wife and I during this time, but also the flow on effect of my diagnosis on those around me,” he says. “A good friend of ours messaged to let me know she has booked in for her first mammogram after hearing my news and my two sisters have had a good reminder to stay diligent with their breast checks.”

For Martin, his breast cancer diagnosis has changed his view on life going forward. “My philosophy is to now practice gratitude daily and be kind,” he says. “You never know what personal battles people are fighting.”