Learning I had Stage 4 Cancer at 19 - Erin | Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma | The Patient Story

When 19-year-old Erin started having worsening lower abdominal pain, blood in her stool, loss of appetite and fatigue, she pushed past assumptions that serious illness couldn't happen to someone so young. Though initially dismissed by some, Erin listened to her body and persistently advocated to get medical testing, leading to her shocking stage 4 non-Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis.

She had a combination of two subtypes: diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and Burkitt's lymphoma.

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[laurawilliams]

Cancer can occur with any age, sex etc. This was a really good post. Thank you!

[caryngoldsmith]

You’re an amazing young woman. I was 47 and your emotional reactions from cutting your own hair to staying the course are similar to mine. I’m 17 years cancer free from stage 3 ovarian cancer. Hang in there and enjoy life!

[kathymorris]

I feel for you. I know what it’s like to be ignored by your doctors. Acted like I was drug seeking, it was horrible. I had a massive ovarian tumor the size of a football. Went to ER middle of night, and with an ultrasound, there it was. They basically told me I was going to die. I knew when I left the house, I’d have surgery and be home in two weeks. They sent be on a small medical jet that got me to Seattle. I said this prayer over and over. The first few lines are, Thy name is my healing, O my God, and remembrance of Thee is my Remedy. Tumor came out easy, did a debulking, took out my appendix and lymph nodes. The cancer did not spread, I had no chemo or radiation and was home in 2 weeks. I went into my doctors office when I got back. I told my doctor what I thought of him. He has had several patients die from cancer.

[azalea]

Why is it that we over and over hear "my cancer symptoms were dismissed"? Most recent stats states every 3rd person will get this disease. In some populations and cancer types it's even every other. This has to be dealt with.

[gwortman]

I had fairly long hair and at 62yrs old decided to cut it all off before I underwent radiation and chemo...my Grandaughter and Daughter celebrated this part of my journey and helped cut my hair off. I am thrilled to know your in remission. Praise God.

[malenaharrison]

Today is 50 years since my mom died.She was only 25.Back then that was very rare and unusual but today its so common..

[lydiakinnaman]

Always listen to your inner voice. ! When in doubt...
Praying for Lord's healing. For calm, comfort, peace. God bless you.

[beltech]

My son had this cancer (burkitts lymphoma) more than 2 years ago. He is doing well and the doctors even said the "c" word (cured).

[kimrittenhouse]

I was diagnosed with DLBLC on December 23rd of 2021. Initially they told me it was in my brain, in my bone (chest), and in my abdomen. They immediately transferred me to MUSC in Charlestown, SC. Turned out it was just (🥴) in my brain. But that was over 2 years ago and I’ve had clear scans for the last 6 months. I still have some lasting symptoms…but all in all I really don’t feel too bad. Happy to see you’re up and about. 😊

[salina]

I'm going through the same regarding subungual melanoma. Seems every time I'm not listened to, ended up in the ER, sadly Kaiser k!lls . I've had so many issues with Kaiser and I've had to advocate for myself. And they keep doing it to me. So hopefully this time they look into the current issue with me.

[ghakashmiri]

Wish you all the best. My son was neglected by the GP, he had DLBC lymphoma, RCHOP did not work, then he had intense chemo followed by stem cell transplant

[jaypalnitkar]

My dad had follicular non hodgkins grade 3b at age 66. I lost him within 1.5 years. He didn't take any chemo or radiation. Was virtually painfree till the end. He was a doctor himself and was against chemo

[anika_lana]

Thank you for sharing your story. Lots of love!

[KB-xdwq]

Happy to see you make it through. I also had stage 4 Non-Hodgkin's. I had a neulasta shot after every round of chemo. My body would start to ache about 6 hours after the shot. My chemo was every 3 weeks. Everyone seems to have a slightly different journey through the treatments. Great your chemo worked!

[siobhanjohnson]

Thank you for sharing your experience and really wishing you a speedy recovery and happy future ❤

[kendallbaney]

Thanks it so enlightening...May u know u r special and brave for speaking out..Give God Praise..Amen....

[BeeApple-srdb]

I'm so sorry . I hope you can receive proper treatment and you can live a long life.❤

[olgaherdova]

Thank you for sharing your story. I wish you the best of luck and send you a big hug 🤗

[tinatingson]

Hi. I hope everything is fine so far. My sister had non Hodgkin lymphoma in the brain. They did not operate because allegedly that is not standard for lymphoma. It looks like you had surgery to remove the tumour? Is that right? Thanks for sharing.

[heatherr]

Thanks for sharing your story! It is important to share about advocating for ourselves and and reminding us we know our body. Your story teaches so much more and helps more than you might expect. I’m happy you are healing.