When Martin noticed small spots of dried blood on his bedsheets in November 2024, breast cancer wasn’t the first thing that came to his mind.
“I noticed dry, crusted blood on my right nipple in November 2024,” Martin recalled. “By December, my nipple was leaking blood during the day and it would stain my shirt.”
Concerned by the symptoms, Martin visited his GP, who referred him for an ultrasound, mammogram and MRI. The MRI revealed abnormal cells, and in February 2025 he underwent a right breast central duct excision.
A week later, Martin was diagnosed with breast cancer.
“The results identified a 4mm grade 2 invasive carcinoma,” Martin said. Despite the news, Martin felt reassured by his medical team’s support and guidance.
“I was actually at peace with being diagnosed with breast cancer. 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.”
As part of his treatment, he underwent a right-side mastectomy. Because it was detected early, he didn’t require chemotherapy or radiation treatment after surgery.
In March 2025, his breast specialist confirmed all the cancer had been successfully removed.
Today, Martin attends annual check-ups to monitor his health.
While his physical recovery was relatively straightforward, the emotional impact of the diagnosis proved more challenging.
“Upon reflection I had a really tough year mentally in 2025,” he said. “My family and friends were exceptional; however, I did find myself in a dark place. With the help of my wonderful medical team, I’m back bigger and stronger.”
Breast cancer in men
Across NSW, it is estimated that in 2026, approximately 7,022 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed, including 6,965 women and 57 men.
Because breast cancer is relatively rare in men, Martin is sharing his story to help raise awareness and encourage others to recognise potential warning signs.
“Breast cancer is very much associated with women and definitely not men,” he said.
“I’m passionate about raising awareness of breast cancer in men and open about discussing my symptoms, diagnosis and surgery. Being a bus driver, I work in a very male-dominated environment and can sometimes be the brunt of jokes. My sense of humour allows that. I’m comfortable laughing at myself if it’s raising awareness.”
Today, Martin hopes sharing his story will encourage others, particularly men, to pay attention to changes in their bodies and seek medical advice if something doesn’t seem right.
“I was one of the lucky ones,” he said. “The symptom was visible, it led to early detection, and it gave me the best possible outcome.”
