I’m a 26-year-old woman who never expected my life to change so dramatically. I was living what felt like an ordinary life — working at a school, spending time with friends, and keeping up with my daily routines. But things took an unexpected turn when I started experiencing night sweats. At first, I dismissed it as a cold or something minor, especially since I worked around kids who were always bringing home new germs. However, when the night sweats continued, I became frustrated. I began researching the cause and read that swollen lymph nodes could be a sign of something serious. That’s when I felt a lump on my collarbone, a rock-hard mass that made my heart sink.
After undergoing several tests, I was diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). The news was devastating, but I made a promise to myself that I would fight with everything I had. I remember the overwhelming emotions that rushed over me at that moment — fear, uncertainty, and disbelief. In an instant, my world shifted, and I was thrust into a journey no one ever wanted to take. The road ahead was unknown, and I was terrified. But I was never alone.
I began chemotherapy, undergoing six rounds in total. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. My body felt weak, and the emotional toll was just as challenging as the physical. Along the way, I found a sense of resilience I didn’t even know I had. I discovered a strength within myself that I hadn’t recognized before.
Through this challenging time, I found strength in the unwavering support of my family, friends, and an incredible medical team. Their kindness, encouragement, and dedication became my foundation, giving me the courage to keep fighting. Every call, every hug, every word of encouragement reminded me that I was not facing this alone. Their love truly played a vital role in my healing.
This journey has deeply changed me. It has taught me to approach each day with profound gratitude and a new awareness of my own strength. I've learned to embrace vulnerability and resilience, understanding that the toughest challenges can lead to the greatest growth.
One of the most meaningful parts of my journey has been participating in The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's (LLS) Light The Night (LTN) event. It was an incredibly special moment to be surrounded by others who were facing similar battles. There was a sense of community, hope, and strength in that crowd. It reminded me that I wasn’t alone in this journey and that the support from LLS and the people who walked this path before me was invaluable. It gave me hope and reaffirmed my commitment to advocate for those who are still fighting.
Today, I’m proud to say that I am in remission. Being declared cancer-free about a month ago was a moment of immense relief and joy. But more than that, it was a reminder of how far I’ve come and of the strength and resilience that carried me through one of the most difficult chapters of my life. And it has only strengthened my resolve to fight for a future where blood cancer is no longer a threat.
I’m grateful for LLS’s support and the opportunity to share my story, knowing that my experience may help others feel seen and understood in their own fight.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from this experience, it’s that no one has to fight cancer alone. We all have the strength to overcome, and with the right support, we can beat this.
Kerry
Hodgkin lymphoma (HL)
