South Central Reporter

In a Feb. 23 Facebook post, Sen. Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) shared the testimony of Asa Newell at a hearing for Senate Bill, 240 which focuses on the need for early detection of testicular cancer.

“Asa Newell of Jefferson County testified this week on SB240,” she wrote on Facebook. “A bill to address the need for early detection of testicular cancer. This bill was suggested by Asa who has a compelling personal story to tell us.”

In her Facebook post, Bryant shared audio of Newell's testimony. In his speech, he explained how, as a 17-year-old, he was diagnosed with stage 3 testicular Cancer, and how more knowledge about testicular cancer and early detection could have prevented the spread of cancer in his body. 

In A Feb. 23 Facebook post, Newell also shared his testimony.

"This past Tuesday I traveled to the state Capitol in Springfield IL to give my testimonial in support of those battling testicular cancer and those who may face the same diagnosis," he posted. "Thank you to Sen. Terri Bryant who filled bill SB240 to help support educating young men on the importance of knowing the symptoms of Testicular Cancer."

Senate Bill 240 is sponsored by Sens. Bryant, Dave Syverson (R-Rockford), Karina Villa (D-Batavia) and Andrew S. Chesney (R-Freeport). The bill requires that males entering ninth grade be given information on testicular cancer as part of their health examination. The information would be put together by the Department of Public Health. The bill would go into effect immediately upon passage.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms of testicular cancer include a lump or swelling in either testicle, a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, sudden swelling of the scrotum, pain or discomfort, enlargement or tenderness of breast tissue, and back pain. The Mayo Clinic notes that testicular cancer typically happens only in one testicle.