About us
Our Mission
Our mission is to reduce male cancer deaths in the UK, which are 40% higher overall.
Cancer Research UK states men are “70% more likely to die from cancers that affect both men and women.” But there is hope, additional deaths among men could be avoided with more male-focused awareness.
We aim to boost life expectancy through self-awareness and early medical intervention. We educate men on taking responsibility and changing outdated behaviours of ignorance and fear.
We promote testicular checks for men aged 15-35 and regular prostate checks, the leading cause of male cancer deaths in the UK.
Our nonprofit, raises awareness, supports those affected by cancer, and channels donations to related charities and worthwhile causes.
Our Vision…
- Organise charity events to raise money.
- Influence men to talk openly about cancer and change their attitudes.
- Increase awareness of cancer symptoms and promote regular check-ups for men of all ages.
- Educate through community sports and business wellness programs, and partner with specialist charities for support services.
- Provide financial donations from raised funds to worthy causes.
Our Founder's Story
Paul Ferriday — Charity Founder
My own cancer journey began in 2008, when I was diagnosed with testicular cancer. Surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy followed, and despite mental health challenges brought on by the chemotherapy and hormone changes, I remained in remission until 2019. Then, unexpectedly, I was informed my cancer had returned. Further surgery, chemotherapy and treatments followed, together with the removal of my remaining part-testicle and several lymph nodes.
Fellas, losing one testicle is tough, but both…
In 2020, I received a further setback with the news that the cancer had spread into my abdominal cavity and was growing aggressively, necessitating life-saving surgery. Therefore, in March 2021, I underwent a 9-hour operation to remove another aggressive seminoma group metastatic tumour, together with more lymph nodes.
Ironically, my surgeon later informed me that the primary tumour had grown to the size of a 'cricket ball' in a very short period and any delay in the surgery would likely have made it inoperable, due to the size and complexity of removal.
As a longstanding former player and passionate follower of cricket – even I, a simple lad from Lancashire, could work out a lump that size wasn't good news.
While recovering in the Christie's Hospital intensive care unit (ITU), I made myself a promise: never to let my cancer illness define me! Furthermore, to use my experience and story positively to inform and support others.
So, why Ball Tampering Allowed?
Incorporating a twist on the longstanding cricketing rule outlawing ball tampering, the idea to combine my personal and professional network, together with my passion for both business and sport, to establish a Men's Health Cancer Awareness Networking Charity, was formed.
Several minor charity fundraising events followed, including bike rides, running, the Three Peaks Challenge, and even a freefall parachute jump, as highlighted in the picture above. By the way, I am unashamedly scared of heights!
The Ball Tampering Allowed name was significantly boosted when Michael Atherton (Athers) OBE; broadcaster, journalist and former Lancashire and England international cricket captain, agreed to offer his personal support to the charity's ambitions and accepted my invitation to become honorary president.
The irony in the title “Ball Tampering Allowed” wasn't lost on Athers; a tongue-in-cheek reference to an incident during his own distinguished international cricket career. Many thanks, Michael, for taking time out of your busy media and broadcasting schedule to be with us in person today.
I reiterate my thanks again to David Hartley and the team at MTX. Having the support of a former client and the addition of a main sponsor has enabled us to progress from small-scale events, with the proceeds being donated to existing established charities including The Christie, Cancer Research UK and Macmillan, to becoming a professional Northwest-based, business community cancer support charity.
My thanks must also extend to the voluntary Trustees who have agreed to give me help, support, and above all, continuity in my ambition to help support others affected by this unforgiving disease. To those five people, including my amazing and beautiful wife Jane, the word 'trust' could not apply any more strongly to me. I know they will ensure that all proceeds raised go directly to local causes, support groups, patients, and hospices.
