Lymphoma dignosis

I was told over the phone by a doctor that I have a mass in my back that is probebly a reccurance of non hodkinson lymphoma that I had in 2016 of which I had radiotherapy treatment in March 2017. I have had limited information about my initial diagnosis in August and most recently a biopsy three weeks ago. There is no indication of  what stage I am at. No indicationn of how big or widespread it is. I was given 40 pages to go away and read and have had no written clarification about  where exactly the affected area is but the doctor wanted me to choose between radiotherapy or chemotherapy with tablets and infusion. All I was told was it was a low grade localised lymphoma. After reading on the Internet I could possibly have 2-5 years life expectancy a d even after treatment the likelihood of it reoccurring is high. My wife is not British and lives abroad. I can't tell her because she doesn't sleep if I say she has a headache. I would like her to come to visit me whilst I am still relatively functional but I have not worked since I had my lymphoma in 2017 because of a sleep disorder after radiopherapy targetted on my orbit. I live on my own. I have not been given counselling and I don't really have any support in the likely hood of reaction to chemotherapy. It's three in the morning. Scared anxious and depressed

 

  • Hi Raddarrad and welcome to Cancer Chat.

    I'm sorry to hear you may be dealing with a recurrence of Non Hodgkins Lymphoma and that you haven't been given much information or support since finding this out but I'm glad you've found us as our online community is full of lots of friendly and understanding members who will know exactly what you're going through at the moment and hopefully some of them will be along soon to offer their support and advice.

    In regards to treatment options, you've very welcome to talk things through with one of our cancer nurses on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m. They are very well informed and will do all they can to help you at this difficult time.

    If you feel counselling may help you through this challenging time and would like to find out more, then do be sure to have a look at this section of our website.

    I hope this helps Raddarrad and it won't be long before your biopsy results come through.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator