Riding the Waves of Treatment: My Journey with Aggressive Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Sometimes life throws you a curveball you never see coming. For me, that curveball hit in mid-November when blood tests revealed that my non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma had become aggressive, leading to serious issues with my liver and kidneys. The news was a lot to process: these vital organs were malfunctioning, and the cancer’s progression was deemed life-threatening.
I was admitted to the hospital immediately as a priority case. Within hours, I was on fluids, receiving anti-coagulant medications and steroids. My medical team told me I needed to start chemotherapy and immunotherapy within two days. The urgency was overwhelming, but I trusted the experts guiding me through this crisis. There wasn’t time to dwell on the fear; it was time to fight.
The Treatment Begins
Since then, I’ve undergone two cycles of chemo and immunotherapy, with four more to go. The treatments are intense, and the side effects have been challenging. One major change? All my hair has fallen out. Losing my hair was an emotional hurdle, but I’ve embraced the change. I’ve discovered the fun of wigs and turbans, and on early morning dog walks, I’ve been rocking the bald look. It’s surprisingly liberating.
Finding Strength in Support
Despite everything, I’m feeling better and incredibly optimistic. My haematologist’s confidence in my ability to go into remission after treatment has been a beacon of hope. Knowing that my hair will grow back is a small comfort in the grand scheme of things, but for now, I’m focusing on what truly matters: my health and the incredible people in my life.
I cannot overstate my gratitude for my stellar medical team. Their expertise and compassion have been extraordinary. I’m also endlessly thankful for my partner, my daughter, and my amazing friends who have rallied around me with love and care. They’ve brought meals, offered a listening ear, sat with me during chemo treatments, and reminded me every day that I’m not alone in this fight.
Staying Active and Positive
Even in the midst of treatment, I’ve made it a priority to stay as active as my body allows. I’ve scaled back my workouts at the gym, but I’m still moving, mostly yoga and light weights workouts. I walk, I dance, and I embrace every moment I can spend outdoors with my dogs. These activities help me feel more like myself and remind me of my strength.
Riding the Waves
This journey is undeniably tough, but it’s also shown me how resilient I can be. I’ve learned to take each day as it comes, riding the waves of treatment with hope and determination. There will be challenges ahead, but I’m confident that I can face them.
To anyone else navigating a similar path, know that you are stronger than you think. Surround yourself with a team—medical professionals, loved ones, and friends—who will lift you up. Take it one step at a time. And don’t forget to celebrate the small victories, because they add up.
Here’s to healing, to hope, and to the brighter days ahead. I’ll see you on the other side of remission.
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