I am 74. I have been married for 52 years. We have three children and four grandchildren. We are all very close. I am in remission from B-cell lymphoma. Lymphoma has no cure. That makes it a chronic disease. I just finished four weekly infusions of immunotherapy with Rituxin. I was diagnosed in July of this year, 2025.
My journey began when I discovered a lump on my left chest just below the clavicle. I was immediately sent for an ultrasound with directions ordered by my primary care physician to immediately give me the results. The radiologist said that he was extremely concerned with what he saw. Consequently, I was then ordered to have a cat scan.
The scan results showed several areas that were suspicious for malignant cancer. I went for a PET scan. The PET scan showed cancer throughout my entire body. I had surgery to obtain a biopsy of the lump on my chest. I was diagnosed with B-cell lymphoma. I was so scared! I truly thought it was a death sentence.
My family was extremely upset about the diagnosis, and fortunately for me surrounded me with love and support for the entire time from diagnosis to remission. I have no way to know if the lymphoma will return or if I will remain in remission for the rest of my life. I will be monitored by the oncologist at frequent intervals with blood tests and imaging at frequent intervals to see if the lymphoma has returned.
I am happy to be in remission, but I know that I will always be on edge about the possibility of a relapse. I’m just extremely emotional lately, and it’s hard to keep my spirits up. My husband is amazingly supportive and loving. I saw a social worker to help me talk through my anxiety and depression. That is where I am today.
Joy
B-cell lymphoma
