From December 2021-January 2022, I had just come off orientation for my new job as a registered nurse. I was working the night shift and just thought I was experiencing the "usual" night shift symptoms. I was ALWAYS tired, had terrible back pain, and had such a shift in my appetite. I went for a physical just to be sure. My bloodwork was normal (slightly elevated WBC but told it could have been from stress at work), and my doctor sent me for physical therapy for my back pain. After going to physical therapy for weeks with no improvement, I noticed a lump on my neck. I remember showing it to my therapist and asking if this was something I needed to be concerned about.
I would say it was definitely something we needed to be concerned about. After multiple scans, bloodwork, and biopsies, on February 22, 2022 (2/22/22) ― the day of good luck and fortune ― I was told the worst news no one wants to hear, "I'm sorry, you have cancer" ― stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) to be exact.
I cannot begin to explain what I was experiencing and feeling. I was angry at the world, sad, depressed, asking myself, "Why me?" At 22 years old, I had gone to nursing school and worked on the frontlines during COVID, all while also playing Division II lacrosse. Yet, now I am facing the toughest battle, cancer. Why me? I went from being at the greatest point in my life to now hitting rock bottom. With time came acceptance, and with acceptance came grit, and I knew it was time to fight.
When I was diagnosed, I was in shock. I could not wrap my head around how this could happen to someone my age yet alone myself. At 23 years old I was at an all-time high, and in a blink of an eye I was at rock bottom.
Right at the start of treatment I had bracelets made up with the saying "Alyssa Strong- Strength, Courage, Hope". I feel as if that was my saying and motivation to get me through this all. You just must have strength, courage, and hope. I have never taken my bracelet off and catch myself looking down upon it reminding me always to keep fighting.
LLS has given me a platform to share my story. I do plan on giving back! I am starting a team for Light The Night Long Island. We are called Alyssa's Army-since I've been told by many that I have an "army behind me". We have raised almost $1,000 and growing!
I chose to become a nurse I because always wanted to help others and give back. Many have told me that I am always smiling or have an infectious smile. I hope that my positivity can be shared and help others. After this journey that I have been through, I hope to become an oncology nurse and use my experience to inspire others battling.
One lesson I have learned throughout this journey and that I would like to share with others is that you're stronger than you think. Whether you believe in faith or not, you are given this battle for a reason and placed on this path for a reason. Just keep reminding yourself that "the best view comes after the hardest climb."
March 15, 2022, was my first treatment, one of a long 12 rounds.
Now we are here, August 16, 2022, round 12/12 of chemo complete. My journey is far from over, but this chapter is coming to a close, and a new one is just beginning.
Alyssa
Stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma (HL)
