I Have Stage 4 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: My Story and Fight Against Cancer
Hey everyone, it’s Brian Reese here. I’m sharing something deeply personal with you today, something that’s drastically changed my life’s course. On July 2, 2024, I was diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. It’s been a tough pill to swallow, but I’m tackling this head-on with the same determination I’ve always brought to every challenge. I know I’ll beat cancer, and I want to share my journey with you — not just to keep you updated but to inspire and support those of you who might be facing similar battles.
What Exactly is Hodgkin’s Lymphoma?
Hodgkin’s Lymphoma is a type of cancer that starts in the lymphatic system, which is a crucial part of our immune system. This cancer primarily affects lymph nodes and can spread to other parts of the body. Despite being diagnosed at stage 4, my doctors consider me low-risk, which means the cancer, although spread to my neck, chest, lower back, groin, and other lymph nodes, is still treatable. The prognosis is positive, and I’m holding on to that.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Here are some common signs and symptoms of lymphoma. Interestingly, I only experienced one of these, which is why I delayed going to the doctor. I initially thought the swollen lymph nodes might just be due to an infection.
Some of the symptoms include:
- Swollen lymph nodes: My lymph nodes in the neck were noticeably swollen, though I didn’t observe this in other parts of my body.
- Fatigue: Many people report persistent fatigue that doesn’t go away with rest, but I didn’t experience any unusual tiredness.
- Fever and night sweats: These are unexpected episodes that can leave you drenched, but I didn’t have any fever or night sweats.
- Unintentional weight loss: This can be a red flag, but I didn’t lose any weight unexpectedly.
The absence of these other symptoms contributed to my hesitation in seeking medical attention, but the swollen lymph nodes were the key indicator for me, which is why I eventually went in to get checked out.
My Treatment Plan
Alright, let’s talk about the battle plan. My treatment involves chemotherapy every two weeks. It’s intense, but it needs to be to knock this thing out. After six total rounds of chemo, I’ll undergo a PET scan to assess how well the treatment is working. There’s also likely radiation therapy down the road, especially targeting the 11.5 cm mass in my chest.
I’ve completed three chemotherapy sessions so far. While it’s not as bad as I thought it would be, there are still days when it knocks me on my butt. For me, the side effects hit hardest between days 4 and 8 post-treatment. It’s like a delayed reaction that catches you off guard. But I’m home, resting, and gearing up for the next round. My focus is on the finish line.
My AAVD Chemotherapy Regimen for Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
We made a slight tweak to the cocktail for my treatment called AAVD.
AAVD is a chemotherapy regimen used to treat Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, combining four drugs: Brentuximab Vedotin, Doxorubicin, Vinblastine, and Dacarbazine.
- Brentuximab Vedotin (Adcetris®): Targets Hodgkin lymphoma cells by binding to the CD30 protein on their surface and delivering a drug that disrupts cell growth.
- Doxorubicin (Adriamycin®): Interferes with cancer cell DNA to prevent replication.
- Vinblastine: Stops cancer cells from dividing by disrupting the microtubules.
- Dacarbazine: Alters the DNA of cancer cells, preventing their multiplication.
Together, these drugs work to reduce the size and spread of the lymphoma, offering a comprehensive attack on the cancer cells while reducing the potential for lung toxicity seen with other treatments.
Success Rates and Survival Rates
Here’s some good news: the prognosis for Hodgkin’s Lymphoma is generally favorable, especially when caught early. The overall five-year survival rate is about 86%, with even better outcomes for younger patients. For those aged 20–39, the survival rate is over 90%. These stats give me a lot of hope and reinforce my belief that I’ll beat this.
The Mental and Physical Toll
Cancer isn’t just a physical battle; it’s a mental one too. The treatments can be brutal, causing a range of side effects. Mentally, the diagnosis and ongoing treatment can lead to anxiety, depression, and stress. It’s vital to have a strong support system in place — family, friends, and mental health professionals are all part of my team. I’m blessed to have an incredible support network, and even during my treatments, I’ll continue writing and making videos to help you navigate the VA benefits you’ve earned.
The Importance of a Strong Support System
I can’t stress enough how important it is to have a solid support network. From my amazing family and friends to my dedicated healthcare team, everyone plays a crucial role in keeping me motivated and focused on recovery. Whether it’s helping with everyday tasks, providing emotional support, or just being there to listen, these people are my backbone. If you’re going through something similar, I encourage you to lean on your support system. Don’t hesitate to ask for help — whether it’s from loved ones or professional counselors.
Faith in Jesus: My Source of Strength
Through all of this, my faith in Jesus has been my anchor. I believe in the power of prayer and the comfort that comes from trusting in His plan. Jesus is the great healer, and I’m holding on to the belief that He’s guiding me through this battle. If you’re inclined, I’d appreciate your prayers — especially Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Please Stay Vigilant About Your Health
I want to take a moment to urge you all to be vigilant about your health. If something feels off, don’t ignore it — get it checked out. Early detection is key to successfully treating many illnesses, including cancer. If you’re experiencing symptoms, even if they seem minor, please see a doctor. Your health is too important to take chances.
Final Thoughts
I’m determined to beat cancer — I have no doubt in my mind. This is just a detour on my journey, not the end of the road. I’ll continue sharing my story, hoping to inspire and educate those who may be facing similar battles. Remember, no matter how tough things get, there is always hope. Together, we can overcome.
Thank you for your continued support and prayers. Stay strong, stay hopeful, and trust in the healing power of our Lord Jesus Christ. Your love and support mean the world to me.
— Brian Reese
