Father diagnosed with testicular cancer grateful for his company’s support

A father of two is so grateful for the support of his employer, he wrote a letter to an Indianapolis media outlet.

By TJ Banes, IU Health Senior Journalist, tfender1@iuhealth.org

Gene Alexander is a husband and father to three grade school children. He’s an assistant coach for his daughter’s softball team; he loves to take in sports; and cook. His life was full and when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer, something worked in his favor.

Alexander’s employer, Alderson Commercial Group, provided hope, kindness, and a true sense of community. “From the moment I was diagnosed my company has gone above and beyond supporting me and my family. Not only did they commit to paying my salary and continuing my health insurance while I’m out for treatment at their own cost, but they’ve made it clear that I’m not facing this battle alone,” Alexander wrote.

“I was told by the owners that my mission in life right now is to get better and not worry about the work I currently had on my plate and to focus on my loved ones and myself. Who does that nowadays? They are incredible people,” said Alexander, who works as a supervisor for the contracting company.

It was late May when he learned of his diagnosis.

“I had discomfort and dismissed it to getting older. Once it wasn’t going away I made an appointment with a urologist,” said Alexander, who turned 45 in August. The American Cancer Society estimates about 9,720 new cases of testicular cancer will be diagnosed this year. The average age of those diagnosed is about 33. About eight percent occur in men older than 55. Alexander was diagnosed at Stage III with embryonal carcinoma that metastasized to the lymph node and lung.

At IU Health, Alexander was initially in the care of urologist Dr. Timothy Masterson where he underwent an orchiectomy to remove the testicle.

“Dr. Masterson is a gem. His sense of humor and mannerisms helped me feel comfortable,” said Alexander. He is now in the care of Dr. Tareq Salous and underwent several rounds of chemotherapy. “Until this, I never went to the doctor. I never felt bad, and I never had health issues.

“On the morning of my surgery, a large group of co-workers including ownership surprised me at the hospital in collaboration with my wife. They surrounded me with support, love, and prayers. It was deeply emotional and incredibly moving to say the least. I was sent off with applause and genuine feelings of love,” said Alexander. “I have known and worked for this company for several years and they have always preferred to call our team ‘family’ not just ‘co-workers’ and they truly showed that in full form. The co-workers also helped Alexander and his family with meals and transportation to treatment.

And again, on the day he showed up for his final chemotherapy treatment and rang the celebratory bell signaling completion, he was joined by his wife, children and co-workers.

“My entire company basically showed up to watch me ring the bell. These people are the most amazing group and their support never stops,” said Alexander.

Alexander grew up in Chicago, lived in Las Vegas for 11 years, and moved to Indiana in 2019 for his job. He and his wife, Dawn, are the parents to a 10-year-old daughter and two sons, 8 and 6 years old.

“When this thing started acting up, I’m glad I caught it. Go get checked. I tell all my friends, ‘go once a year; take care of yourself,’” said Alexander.

“I had an enlightening journey to say the least. I’ve rekindled my faith and found a new appreciation in the beauty of life.”