I have been meaning to do an update for the past few weeks but finding the words to wrap up this experience is harder than I thought it would be. I am in remission and I have been since my mid-way PET scan in early March when we found out that I had a complete response to treatment, however, I had to finish out 8 treatments which is four cycles of chemotherapy. After completing the four cycles, getting another PET scan, and getting a second opinion… we got confirmation on May 6th, that I could OFFICIALLY be done with treatment. Hallelujah!
My last day of chemo was April 22nd, I may not have “rang the bell” to signal my completed treatment but simply feeling good was celebration enough. Nothing about chemotherapy was enjoyable and maybe I will elaborate on that someday. For now, all that matters is how grateful I am for my Oncologists, my oncology nurses, and the millions of people that have contributed to cancer research (emphasis on blood cancer research). Everyone that prayed, sent cards, texts, care packages, and those that were able to visit – you lifted my spirits and encouraged me so much. Huge thank you to my husband for being by my side for every appointment, reminding me to laugh, and taking on the load at home so I could focus on recovery.
If I can encourage or give some advice to anyone that is going into a cancer diagnosis with chemotherapy (specifically Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Stage 2B with AVD + Nivo (immune therapy) treatment) here are my biggest takeaways from treatment:
- Walk the days after treatment (even if you don’t want to)
- Drink a lot of water, set reminders (I’m serious)
- Have anti-nausea medication and laxatives handy (for whenever you might need them)
- Get a therapist (one that specializes in EMDR)
- Visit with family & friends (it’s good for the soul)
- Don’t eat big or hard-to-digest meals the 3-5 days post-treatment
- Use a rebounder (trampoline) or vibration plate to get more lymphatic movement in
- Let people help you… say yes to the meal train, the visits, and the gifts… it will boost your spirit and you need that!
The Salty Exchange 