Recently Diagnosed, 29, Follicular Lymphoma...

I've just been diagnosed with Follicular Lymphoma. I've been told it's slow growing, and so minimal that they don't think radio or chemo is needed as yet.

I've seen a specialist oncologist, and had my blood tests. My CT scan is showing a tiny growth in my neck and possibly a few other places. I had a nodule/cyst removed from my cheek last month. I have my bone-marrow biopsy in three days. Unfortunately my next appointment with specialist is not for 5 weeks.

My partner and I are obviously very emotional. It's not made easier by the fact we have all these questions, but are unable to see the doctor for so long. 

How are you able to tell what stage your lymphoma is at? Are there symptoms or signs? Currently I'm asymptomatic. Does this mean I'm stage one?

What is life expectancy? Is this a cancer that often causes death or is the outlook better?

Is it curable? I've read conflicting info on the web. Some say no, others say yes but only in the early stages.

Can I travel? How often are checkups?

Can I excercise? I'm very active, competing in triathlons and marathons. I've read somewhere heavy excercise may not be good for the cancer.

Any imput on these questions would be so appreciated. I understand each case is different,  tell me of your experience.

Thankyou,

Adrian 

 

 

 

 

 

I was diagnosed almost a year ago with fNHL, stage 1, not sure of grade because I did not choose to have bone marrow biopsy, probably stage 3-4 but does not really matter.  Grade is rally more important.  This is not a death sentence.  Lot to learn though.  I suggest you go to lymphomasurvival.com.  This website has been a god send and will answer so many of your questions.  Good luck and dont give up

Hi Adrian

I just posted a message on the board yesterday, (Follicular Lymphoma Newly Diagnosed Aged 38) then read your message, it seems we are in a similar situation. I originally had a lump removed from my groin, and was diagnosed on 30th August 2007.My CT scans and blood was apparently good, and now I go for a PET scan this Tuesday, and see my oncologist on Fri 28th Sept. I think they will send me for a Bone Marrow Biopsy after that. Just wondering  if you have found out anything more? Do you have your Bone Marrow Biopsy results yet? I am hoping for stage 1 or 2, but then again I suppose everyone does at the start. I am a mum of 2 children aged 7 and 4, so I need to keep hopeful and positive for them. 

Kind regards

 Rhonda

 

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I have had follicular lymphoma for over 4 years. I'm having my second round of Rituxan (every 6 months).I am at least at stage 3 which is when the disease is found to be above and below the diaphragm. I was also told that I'm at the intermediate grade. My prognosis is to live a "long life". I'm not a marathon participant, but I work full time and take long walks. Travel is still part of my life plans. I will be exploring the Bruce Peninsula around the Georgian Bay of Ontario, Canada this summer. I personally find that the less I worry the less my immune system is stressed. Self care is number one. I try to sleep 8 hours nightly, eat 3 nutritious meals. Nosmoking, and very light on the use of alcohol. Good music and good friends/family are also part of the treatment remedy. Good luck