Brian Sluga's memoir The Shriek I Do Remember has received two national awards: Best Health Memoir in the U.S. of 2026 from Best of Best Review and Best Testicular Cancer Awareness Book in the U.S. of 2026 from Evergreen Awards. The book, which details Sluga's experience with testicular cancer from the discovery of a tumor in the shower to almost the present day, is available through his website.
Sluga was diagnosed with testicular cancer at 19 years old. Now a survivor, he has written a book that takes readers through his journey. "Testicular cancer is no joke," Sluga said. The book is a nonfiction memoir that aims to support others facing the disease with stories and encouragement that only a survivor can tell.
The book has resonated with readers, particularly cancer patients and survivors. Sluga said the response has been encouraging. "I was experiencing a lot of doubt on this book, The Shriek I Do Remember. It was extremely comforting to know that it was unbelievably personal to me," he said. "I wrote about the things that most troubled and interested my readers. That's what has become The Shriek followers."
Sluga's approach in the book is direct and immersive. He describes it as entering "the Shriek with a approach and feel that dives headfirst into your head." The narrative builds gradually, with each page revealing more. "My book creeps up on you story by story …with every page a layer is peeled like an onion that will leave you guessing till the very end," he said.
In addition to the book, Sluga has shared his story on podcasts. He appeared on It Takes Balls with Steven Crocker, a testicular cancer survivor and host of the podcast. In January, he was interviewed by Joyce Lofstrom, MS, APR, whose son died of testicular cancer at age 22. That interview was for the Don't Give Up on Testicular Cancer podcast.
Sluga's website, testicular cancer survivor stories, offers the book and information about his work. The site serves as a resource for those seeking encouragement and insight from someone who has been through the disease.
The awards recognize the book's contribution to health memoir and cancer awareness. Best of Best Review named it Best Health Memoir in the U.S. of 2026, and Evergreen Awards named it Best Testicular Cancer Awareness Book in the U.S. of 2026. These honors reflect the book's impact on readers and its role in raising awareness about testicular cancer.
Sluga's story begins with a personal discovery: finding a tumor in the shower. From there, the book covers his treatment and recovery, offering a detailed account of his experience. It is this personal perspective that has connected with readers, especially those facing similar challenges.
The book is written for readers and cancer patients and survivors, aiming to provide support through a firsthand narrative. Sluga's honest and layered storytelling has earned him a following and critical recognition. His work continues to reach those affected by testicular cancer through his book and podcast appearances.