Welcome to our official newsletter Channel38, September 2026 edition.
Men and boys: Remember to check yourselves on the first of every month, it could save your life! Sign up to our free e-calendar at dt38.org
Fact of the Month:
Did you know? Undescended testicles (cryptorchidism) is when one or both testicles do not move into the scrotum before birth or during early infancy. It is usually corrected with surgery called an orchidopexy. Having an undescended testicle statistically increases the risk of testicular cancer, particularly if it is left untreated or surgery is delayed beyond around age 11–13*.
*Source: Cancer Research
Headlines this month
NEW
Remembering Dylan’s West Ham Debut
On 25th September, we marked the 14th anniversary of Dylan Tombides making his West Ham United first-team debut. He was introduced by then-Hammers boss Sam Allardyce during a League Cup tie against Wigan Athletic at Upton Park — a remarkable moment made all the more special by everything Dylan had already faced in his battle with testicular cancer. Despite the challenges, he refused to give up on his dream, and that night he pulled on the claret and blue and stepped onto the pitch for the club he loved. Fourteen years on, that moment remains an important part of Dylan’s story and a lasting reminder of his courage, determination and spirit.
Dylan’s Debut Gala Dinner with “Big Sam”
One of the most special moments in Dylan Tombides’ story was his West Ham United first-team debut, and now the man who gave Dylan that opportunity, Sam Allardyce, is set to join us to remember it. On Friday 13th November, at Ingrebourne Links Golf & Country Club, Upminster, E13 Events will host a special Dylan Tombides Tribute Evening, with Big Sam as Guest of Honour and hosted by James Collins, alongside other members of the West Ham squad from Dylan’s debut. Fourteen years on from the debut, it promises to be a very special evening as we come together to remember that remarkable moment and celebrate Dylan’s lasting legacy.
Tickets and sponsorship enquiries: Contact Ian at E13 Events on 07958 472847.
A Fantastic Golfing Day of Support for DT38
We’re incredibly grateful to Thompson & Leigh for hosting a fantastic Golf Day in aid of DT38 on 15th September at Hever Castle Golf & Wellbeing. The event raised an amazing £4,240 for DT38, with a fundraising raffle adding to the total and helping make the day such a success. At the heart of Thompson & Leigh’s support is our very own DT38 Ambassador Gareth Vidler, whose passion for the Foundation has helped bring this fantastic partnership to life. A huge thank you to everyone at Thompson & Leigh, all those who took part, and everyone who supported the raffle — your generosity will help us continue Dylan’s legacy and our work raising awareness of testicular cancer.
West Ham United Highlights New DT38 Boxer Shorts
We were delighted to see our Principal Charity Partner, West Ham United, shine a spotlight on the launch of our brand-new DT38 3-Pack Boxer Shorts. The Club’s article highlights how the boxers combine fun designs and important messages to encourage men to check themselves regularly, while also supporting DT38’s work to raise awareness of testicular cancer. With 100% of the profit from sales going to DT38, every pack purchased helps us continue our education, awareness and community work in Dylan’s memory. The boxers are available from the Official West Ham Store and the London Stadium Store. West Ham United
Read the full article on the West Ham United website
DT38 Has Landed on TikTok Shop
We’re excited to announce that you can now shop DT38 products directly through our TikTok Shop, starting with our brand-new DT38 Boxer Shorts 3 Pack. Featuring important DT38 reminders and designed with comfort in mind (with one pair in stylish claret and blue) they’re a great way to show your support while keeping the message close to home. Head over to the DT38 TikTok Shop and grab your three-pack today! (UK Only).
Our TikTok is @WeAreDT38
Peak Performance from Chad for DT38!
A huge congratulations to Chad Paczensky and the team, who took on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge on 11th September in support of DT38. We’re incredibly proud of everyone involved in taking on such a tough challenge, and Chad has already raised an amazing £382! There’s still time to show your support and help him reach his fundraising goal. You can sponsor Chad here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/chad-paczensky-3
Remembering Luděk Mikloško
Everyone at DT38 was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of West Ham legend Luděk Mikloško at the age of 64. Affectionately known as ‘Ludo’, he was a hugely loved figure at West Ham, making 373 appearances for the Hammers between 1990 and 1998 before later returning to the Club as a goalkeeping coach. Luděk’s battle with cancer resonated particularly strongly with the DT38 family, and we send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, former teammates and everyone who knew and loved him. His warmth, character and contribution to West Ham will be remembered for many years to come. Rest in peace, Ludo.
DT38 Events Calendar 2026
10th October – WA State Team v Perth Glory FC Match Event
13th November 2026 – Dylan Tombides Debut Gala Dinner
DT38’s Picture of the Month
Our September Picture of the Month is a particularly poignant one. Around the time of Luděk Mikloško’s passing, this beautiful image was shared online and it immediately moved us. Featuring four much-loved West Ham figures — Bobby Moore, our very own Dylan, Billy Bonds and Ludo himself — it feels like a fitting and deeply touching tribute to four people who have left an extraordinary mark on the Club and its supporters. There are no prizes for our Picture of the Month — it’s simply a picture that captures something special, and this one certainly did.