In 2017, I was diagnosed with a rare and chronic form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). I was beyond devastated as I knew there was no cure for my condition, and I also knew my life would be altered in many ways. I was also finishing my last semester in graduate school and almost gave up my dream of graduating. But with the support of my family, school, physicians, and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), I persisted and received my Master of Education in 2018.
Quarantining through the pandemic affected my treatment. Offices were closed, so I was unable to go to the hospital for treatment, which left me without any way to manage my NHL. As my condition worsened, I became vigilant in my advocacy of patients’ rights and started a website which gave me a space to blog about my experience during quarantine. In 2021, my love of writing helped me self-publish my first book. My book discusses living with a chronic condition during quarantine, as well as other events that took place during that time. I also discuss my childhood and how it shaped me into who I am today.
I am currently an Educational Leadership Doctoral Candidate, an Adjunct Professor, a Doctoral Fellow, and an Education and Social Justice consultant. I try to share my experiences because, despite obstacles, our stories can become testimonies to help or encourage others. I hope my students and my children see that despite challenges, we can still make a difference and be the change we want to see.
Throughout my journey, LLS has been supportive in many ways. I have a Light The Night (LTN) team, “Keisha’s Crusaders,” and my former students participated in the LLS Hero Squad program. LLS has provided a space for me to learn about my condition, allowed me to join support groups, and to find assistance. I truly appreciate everything that LLS does for patients and families. Sometimes blood cancer patients are forgotten because people cannot always visibly see our condition, but blood cancer impacts our lives tremendously. I appreciate LLS for providing a space to educate, lead, and encourage support to end blood cancers.
Keisha
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL)
