Who we are
The Lost Ball Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness, promoting early detection, and providing direct support to men and families impacted by testicular cancer.
Founded from personal experience and a desire to make a difference, our mission is built on turning difficult moments into meaningful action. We know that a diagnosis affects more than health — it can bring financial stress, uncertainty, and emotional challenges for both patients and loved ones. That’s why we work to provide real support when it matters most.
Through programs like our Backpack Program, survivor outreach, financial assistance efforts, and community awareness events, we aim to bring comfort, connection, and hope to those navigating the journey.
We also believe awareness can be approachable, honest, and memorable. By combining education with community-driven events, creative outreach, and a relatable voice, we help start conversations that can save lives.
At our core, The Lost Ball Foundation exists to remind people they are not alone — and that together, we can make a real impact.
Meet Mike
Mike Pelyak is the founder of The Lost Ball Foundation and the inspiration behind its mission to support men and families impacted by testicular cancer.
In 2019, Mike was diagnosed with Stage 1B non-seminoma testicular cancer. His treatment path included an orchiectomy followed by active surveillance. While grateful that his journey was caught early and did not require chemotherapy, the experience gave him a firsthand understanding of the fear, uncertainty, and disruption that can come with a cancer diagnosis.
It also opened his eyes to the many individuals who face far more difficult paths — including chemotherapy, repeat surgeries, recurrence, fertility concerns, financial strain, and long recoveries.
Mike believes that some of the best learning, growth, and understanding often come from a place of humility and humor — which helped inspire the name The Lost Ball Foundation. By approaching difficult conversations with honesty, relatability, and a little lightheartedness, the foundation aims to make awareness more approachable and impactful.
Determined to turn his experience into something meaningful, Mike founded The Lost Ball Foundation to raise awareness, promote early detection, and provide direct support to those navigating the journey today.
Through community, compassion, and a mission rooted in perspective, Mike continues to lead with one goal in mind: helping others know they are not alone.
Contact us
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