CancerCompass message board discussion started by Sammie1 on 9/14/2006 http://www.cancercompass.com/message-board/message/all,6880,0.htm Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://backend.userland.com/rss RSS.NET: http://www.rssdotnet.com/ I am a 20+ year survivor of Hodgkin's Disease, radiation and chemo, and would like to hear from other long term survivors, radiation and chemo for any type of cancer, concerning any ongoing or new health problems. I have been told that I am a among some of the oldest survivors of treatment for cancer and that they have little data as to what to expect as far as my ongoing health and the effects my treatment will have on my future health. Perhaps we can compare notes and information. Thanks. Sammie1 Thu, 14 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT I just read your request to find other long term Hodgkin Survivors. I am a 19 year survivor of Hodgkins. My original cancers (together) were Hodgkins Stage IIA and thyroid. Since then, I have had basal cell skin cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer and vulvar cancer. But, all of those were caught in early stages and honestly, if you saw me, you would be surprised I have ever been sick. My 82 year old mother says I'm the healthiest looking sick person she's ever seen. There are many long term side effects including heart issues, neuropathy, asthma & GERD. You are welcome to email me directly for more information. I have found a great source for long term Hodgkin Surivors you can contact, just let me know. You are not alone!!! Ladyfmn Sun, 24 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT I was treated for Hodgkin's in 1984 when I was 14 years old. It's been so long that I'm not sure in what stage it was diagnosed, but I'm certain that it was an early stage. They gave me eight rounds of chemo-therapy, which wasn't even enough to go totally bald, and thirty-days of radiation. Since the conclusion of the treatment, I have had no reoccurrence, and no subsequent forms of cancer. Sometime around my mid-twenties, I developed gerd and a condition called Barrett's esophagus, but it seems to be unrelated the Hodgkin's and is kept under control with a prescription. Other than the Gerd, I have remained completely healthy. The only ill effect that I have had is occasional periods of anxiety that I may be living on borrowed time, but I try not dwell on it and just focus on taking care of myself. I did smoke for several years when I was younger. Now, I'm worried that I may have set myself up for Lung Cancer. But there is nothing I can do about it now. I've become an avid runner and cyclist, hoping that will help heal my lungs. T1pp12 Wed, 11 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT Hi, I just had my 16 year check-up today and I'm clear, thank goodness. My oncologist and I joke that I will keep coming until one of us retires! I had two occurences, the first when I was 24 (radiation) and the second when I was 27 (chemo). My doctor has told me that once I passed the 10 year mark, the likelihood of reoccurence pretty well goes back to national averages. The things they are now looking for are long-term repercussions of the treatments themselves. I was told that the biggest issue with chemo is the possibility of leukemia and that this is most likely to occur 5 - 10 years after treatment, so I'm hopefully past that. However, today I was told that my chance of breast cancer is much higher and my chance of colonic cancer is also increased, as I had two courses of radiation, incl the abdomen. Doesn't seen fair that the cure for one cancer can cause another type to develop. Anyway, I am interested in hearing from other women who are now wondering if breast cancer is the next big health hurdle, and if so, what they are doing about it, if anything. On a positive note, everything that I went through 2 decades ago almost feels like it was from another life altogether. I don't consider myself to be in remission - at this point I'm calling myself cured. I hope I've kept some of the wisdom that I gained from surviving the ordeal but I am once again at the point where living to a ripe old age feels like my entitlement, just like those who have not faced a life-threatening illness. Denise1 Fri, 03 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT I am a 23 yr survivor of Hodkins IB. Radiation therapy no recurrences. I have scar tissue surrounding the lungs from the radiation and for many years I had bronchitis and pneumonia a couple times per year. I moved down in the hills away from the city 4 years ago and havent had an episode of bronchits or pneumonia since. I was told at the time that I may not be able to have children, they just didnt know at that time if radiation in the chest would effect the ovaries etc. Well, I was blessed with 4 beautiful children and almost healthy. Will get back to that. Five years after the laparotomy was performed (during the testing phases before therapy) scar tissue from the surgery area grew and tightened around my large intestine causing the removal of 8" of gangrenous intestine. Can't say this was directly related to the Hodkins. Nine years ago I had cervical cancer with removal of cervix no therapy. Quick and easy! I feel good, feel healthy... always tire more easily than others. The scary thing is, I felt good then, just before being diagnosed with Hodgkins. Now, back to 'almost healthy': My 20 yr old daughter was just diagnosed with Hodgkins IIIB. Did you just hear that shotgun going off? I do, all the time... and then the deafaning silence that follows, and the childlike whisper 'Kayti has cancer'. Do you hear the sledgehammer pounding of my heart? I do, all the time. I can feel it too... it hurts. Tamik Thu, 23 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT I was diagnosed with Hodgkins in the late spring of 1984 when I was 22. So 22.5 years ago. I was determined to most likely be Stage I but location of the affected nodes in lower neck/upper chest possibly could have made it Stage II. Never had any itching. I went through the old lymphangiogram and catscan to stage. I was only given intense radiation, had no chemo. 4.5 weeks daily to the neck and chest, and then they did additional four weeks to abdominal area as a preventative measure. I have not had any additional occurances. So labeled as in remission too I guess, but I prefer to consider it cured!  I have not had any other cancer diagnosis up to this time. I had my first colonoscopy by 40 due to family history as well, couple of polyps found. Have that now every three years. I've had annual mammograms pretty much for the past 10 years and have been clear thus far.  I haven't seen an oncologist since my 10 year anniversary, but yearly see my family doctor and have full bloodwork done and a chest x-ray every other year or three years. My thyroid is off a tad and I take a small dose of synthroid/levrothyroxin daily. I was never able to get pregnant, though things "appeared to be normal" so not sure if anything there was due to the radiation. They did use ovary blocks when they did my abdominal area. Only other health issue I have is occasional ocular migraines and struggle with 25 pounds I don't like. One thing that was recommended to me was to see a dermatologist for a baseline complete check by age 40, due to potential changes from radiation, and I haven't done that but will be seeing one in the next few weeks.  Breast cancer just seems to be my biggest concern and worry, but will continue with the exams and being as proactive as I can.  I'm thankful for these past 20+ years. Having had been born in another time, I wouldn't have had most of them. It would be nice to hear from others, compare notes and see what other studies or research has been done to date. Fungirl Fri, 08 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT      I to am a 20+ survivor foloowing chemo and radiatuin treatment.   Unfortunately, I was just diagnosed with Stage IV stomach cancer due to the radiation treatment.  I went to a hematologist/oncologist every 6 months for the last 20+ years, and still nothing was found.  I developed stomach discomfort this past August and I decided to see a GI MD.  My blood was normal for all these years as well as my cat scans etc.  I was shocked.  A simple endoscopy showed what they thought to be an ulcer but turned out to be Stage IV stomach cancer.  Although it is not the standard of care for we the survivors, I STRONGLY RECOMMEND THAT you insist on taking a preventive endoscopy even if you don't have symptoms.  It's a simple test and had I known about the possibility of developing  this secondary cancer,  or had it been recommended, I would have done it a long while ago,and saved my life. Hopeful55 Thu, 28 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT Hi,  I might just win the prize here.  I had HD 32 years ago!  At that time I had massive doses of radiation to the neck and chest area.  I have been cancer free since that time with no severe side effects.  I had my thyroid removed three years ago due to the fact that it just stopped functioning and I had several nodules.  My doctor recently suggested that I go to an ENT for a scan and possible dialation of my esophagus.   I have some swallowing problems which he thinks is due to scar tissue.  Other than that, I am about to celebrate my 51st birthday, have two beautiful daughters, a husband (of 32 years....We had just married when I was diagnosed!) and teach a class of rowdy fifth graders every day.  I live a very full, active life and expect to keep it up for the next 50 years!  Glad I found this site and look forward to talking to "all ya'll" (I'm from Louisiana) again. Becca12056 Fri, 05 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT  On 11/23/2006 Tamik wrote:I am a 23 yr survivor of Hodkins IB. Radiation therapy no recurrences. I have scar tissue surrounding the lungs from the radiation and for many years I had bronchitis and pneumonia a couple times per year. I moved down in the hills away from the city 4 years ago and havent had an episode of bronchits or pneumonia since. I was told at the time that I may not be able to have children, they just didnt know at that time if radiation in the chest would effect the ovaries etc. Well, I was blessed with 4 beautiful children and almost healthy. Will get back to that. Five years after the laparotomy was performed (during the testing phases before therapy) scar tissue from the surgery area grew and tightened around my large intestine causing the removal of 8" of gangrenous intestine. Can't say this was directly related to the Hodkins. Nine years ago I had cervical cancer with removal of cervix no therapy. Quick and easy! I feel good, feel healthy... always tire more easily than others. The scary thing is, I felt good then, just before being diagnosed with Hodgkins. Now, back to 'almost healthy': My 20 yr old daughter was just diagnosed with Hodgkins IIIB. Did you just hear that shotgun going off? I do, all the time... and then the deafaning silence that follows, and the childlike whisper 'Kayti has cancer'. Do you hear the sledgehammer pounding of my heart? I do, all the time. I can feel it too... it hurts.Don't blame yourself for what is happening to your daughter.  I know it is always more scary to be the mother of a sick child, but remember what brought you through your times of need.  I have been a survivor of Hodgkin's disease for 10 years.  Whenever I hear my daughter is experiencing some of the same physical symptoms I had leading up to my final diagnosis of lymphoma, I panic.  But I know it is not something I did to cause it.  Also, I know that in this day and age we live in our children will be subjected to much earlier (THANK GOD!!!!!) diagnoses than we were able to obtain, therefore giving them a much better chance of survival.  Remember you have survived so long and so will your child.  Survivor1959 Thu, 25 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT  On 1/5/2007 Becca12056 wrote:Hi,  I might just win the prize here.  I had HD 32 years ago!  At that time I had massive doses of radiation to the neck and chest area.  I have been cancer free since that time with no severe side effects.  I had my thyroid removed three years ago due to the fact that it just stopped functioning and I had several nodules.  My doctor recently suggested that I go to an ENT for a scan and possible dialation of my esophagus.   I have some swallowing problems which he thinks is due to scar tissue.  Other than that, I am about to celebrate my 51st birthday, have two beautiful daughters, a husband (of 32 years....We had just married when I was diagnosed!) and teach a class of rowdy fifth graders every day.  I live a very full, active life and expect to keep it up for the next 50 years!  Glad I found this site and look forward to talking to "all ya'll" (I'm from Louisiana) again.I am a month away from becoming an 11 year Hodgkin’s survivor. I was diagnosed at the age of 14 and I’m now about to turn 26. My treatment included Chemo and radiation. I’m writing because your story has really given me hope I just Had twin Boys (with no medical help) and I’m looking forward to enjoying many years with them. I have not had any relapses since my treatment; the only thing is that I have to take synthroid once a day. I also get a little agitated when running due to one of the chemo’s that affected my lungs a little. I don’t tend to get sick any more than the usual person and hope that continues. But recently I visited a new oncologist for my yearly check up and left a little depressed with all the side effects he told me could affect me, especially the leukemia. Anyways I hope I have also been an inspiration to someone even though I’m not in the 20 year mark yet.  Marli Tue, 30 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT Hi,Great news on the 20+ years. I was diagnosed with Stage IV Hodgkins in 1979 and underwent splenectomy and 8 months of intense chemotherapy. My cousin (I am male, she is fmale), in 1984 was diagnosed with Stage II and underwent radiation treatment. She is having reduced lung function. I have no issues other than veins hard to find for blood tests.Hope this helps, happy to provide more infoBob Taxspeaker Tue, 13 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT I am 46 years old, a 10 year survivor of stage 1A Hodgkins Disease, treated with chemo ABVD.  I am in good health and living a busy and productive life, I am blessed and very thankful!   I am experiencing a chronic cough and have gone to a pulmonary specialist, my pulmonary function testing is great, he treated me for a post nasal drip, and asthma related symptoms, Advair, Flonaise, Singulair and even Zantac.  I went for allergy testing to see if it was allergy related, but that didn't show much... dust mites and some seasonal allergies.  Being on all these medications didn't seem to help much so I've since stopped all those medications and I'm trying over the counter remedies not wanting all those steroids.  I was curious if any other survivors have chronic cough problems?  I do work in a salon so my next step is to find other employment to get away from all the chemicals.  Any info would be appreciated.  Thanks...  Geri  Geridb Sat, 17 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT I think the leukemia threat lessons over the years...In other words, the biggest threat is in the first few years after treatment.  My biggest worry is breast cancer from the radiation....which seems to be a common problem for us long term survivors. Just live your life to the fullest as deal with things as they come....That's what I do. Becca12056 Tue, 06 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT hi i have been in remission for 28 years . got hd when i was 28  & now i am 56 .  but since 16 years ago i have a problem with my blood  my bone marrow is producing to many red cells making my blood sticky so have to take chemo in tablet form for the rest of my life + aspirin they say it was a side effect of radition & chemo,  sorry should have said at the start when i had hd  the took my spleen out as a precauiton as a result my immune system is up the spout . hope to from you soon billyaldo.  Billy Aldo Mon, 16 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT Hello, all -- I can't tell you how great it is to see fellow survivors here and hear your stories. Best wishes to those of you who are fighting battles brought about by your original treatments, or possibly from the treatment. I guess that will always be a worry for us warriors, and we have to be diligent about checkups. In six months I will have survived Hodgkin's stage III B for 30 years!! Yippee! I've had no side effects from six weeks of radiation therapy back in the bad old late '70s/early '80s, when there was little protection to other organs and high doses. I also had 11 months of chemo (MOPP). But I was healthy during treatment and remain healthy to this day, no problems other than intolerance of cold. However, after reading one of your posts, I realize now that possibly one winter in 1992 when I got pneumonia three times, it could have been due to lung scarring and not just bad luck. That never occurred to me before. I'm a long-term runner, but because of the pneumonia had to give up running outdoors in winter -- that seemed to take care of it, though. Now I exercise indoors when the weather gets cold. But I'm doing my first marathon in September, and play competitive tennis. My health has been good since my last treatment, and I wish the same for all of you. It's really nice to have a place to touch base with fellow survivors. Lisaley Wed, 27 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT Hello! I am responding to your numerous replies for long term survivors of HD. I was diagnosed  (Third Stage) with Giant Cell Hodgkins Disease in 1977, when I was 25. They told me the cancer had spread from my collar bone to my stomach and I had about THIRTY tumors! At that time, the treatment was Spleenectomy with Laparotomy, Radiation (4000 rads, 5 days a week, both sides) and Chemo with Mopp, which I can tell you was awful! I would vomit for literally hours until I passed out.. I tried not eating beforehand, that didn't work at all, I would just dry heave for hours as well.. I remember how sore my diaphram became! I don't want to scare anyone or make anyone feel frightened.. I know that today's treatments are much more effective.. I am proud to say, at 55, I work full time at a major hospital. I do a twelve hour shift three days a week..I guess this is "up there" for survival rates.. I have outlived my Oncologist,my Radiologist, and my Family Practice doctor( who originally misdiagnosed me). Anyway, this is a message of hope AND LOVE for every Cancer Survivor and Family member.. Cancer CAN be beaten, take it one step at a time, don't be worried by lack of strength or energy.. it takes time to overcome this, and keeping spirits up is so vital.. when you overcome this, you know NOTHING can ever scare you again..You are, as they say, "More Trouble than Trouble"...so it runs.away. Good Luck and God Bless! Marjiscott Mon, 02 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT  On 9/24/2006 Ladyfmn wrote:I just read your request to find other long term Hodgkin Survivors. I am a 19 year survivor of Hodgkins. My original cancers (together) were Hodgkins Stage IIA and thyroid. Since then, I have had basal cell skin cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer and vulvar cancer. But, all of those were caught in early stages and honestly, if you saw me, you would be surprised I have ever been sick. My 82 year old mother says I'm the healthiest looking sick person she's ever seen. There are many long term side effects including heart issues, neuropathy, asthma & GERD. You are welcome to email me directly for more information. I have found a great source for long term Hodgkin Surivors you can contact, just let me know. You are not alone!!! Hello,I was wondering which type of breast cancer you were diagnosed with and which type of treatment you chose? I am a 21 year survivor of breast cancer and was recently diagnosed with DCIS in both breasts.Thank you! survivenhodgkins Thu, 19 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT  On 7/19/2007 survivenhodgkins wrote: On 9/24/2006 Ladyfmn wrote:I just read your request to find other long term Hodgkin Survivors. I am a 19 year survivor of Hodgkins. My original cancers (together) were Hodgkins Stage IIA and thyroid. Since then, I have had basal cell skin cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer and vulvar cancer. But, all of those were caught in early stages and honestly, if you saw me, you would be surprised I have ever been sick. My 82 year old mother says I'm the healthiest looking sick person she's ever seen. There are many long term side effects including heart issues, neuropathy, asthma & GERD. You are welcome to email me directly for more information. I have found a great source for long term Hodgkin Surivors you can contact, just let me know. You are not alone!!! Hello,I was wondering which type of breast cancer you were diagnosed with and which type of treatment you chose? I am a 21 year survivor of Hodgkin's and was recently diagnosed with DCIS in both breasts.Thank you!Correction- I am a 21 year survivor of Hodgkin's not breast cancer. If there is anyone else out there who has been diagnosed with DCIS after radiation therapy for Hodgkin's, I would like to hear from you.THANKS AGAIN!  survivenhodgkins Thu, 19 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT  On 9/24/2006 Ladyfmn wrote:I just read your request to find other long term Hodgkin Survivors. I am a 19 year survivor of Hodgkins. My original cancers (together) were Hodgkins Stage IIA and thyroid. Since then, I have had basal cell skin cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer and vulvar cancer. But, all of those were caught in early stages and honestly, if you saw me, you would be surprised I have ever been sick. My 82 year old mother says I'm the healthiest looking sick person she's ever seen. There are many long term side effects including heart issues, neuropathy, asthma & GERD. You are welcome to email me directly for more information. I have found a great source for long term Hodgkin Surivors you can contact, just let me know. You are not alone Hi ladyfmn!I'm a 20 year hodgkins survivor and would love to know your "great source" for long term survivorsThanks, Greg bassetgreg Wed, 15 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT  On 2/17/2007 Geridb wrote:I am 46 years old, a 10 year survivor of stage 1A Hodgkins Disease, treated with chemo ABVD.  I am in good health and living a busy and productive life, I am blessed and very thankful!   I am experiencing a chronic cough and have gone to a pulmonary specialist, my pulmonary function testing is great, he treated me for a post nasal drip, and asthma related symptoms, Advair, Flonaise, Singulair and even Zantac.  I went for allergy testing to see if it was allergy related, but that didn't show much... dust mites and some seasonal allergies.  Being on all these medications didn't seem to help much so I've since stopped all those medications and I'm trying over the counter remedies not wanting all those steroids.  I was curious if any other survivors have chronic cough problems?  I do work in a salon so my next step is to find other employment to get away from all the chemicals.  Any info would be appreciated.  Thanks...  Geri Hi, I'm a 20 year survivor. I had chemo twice and  radiation and a bone marrow transplant. The transplant almost killed me but did cure me. I too suffer from a reoccuring cough. It occurs after I eat(sometimes) , when i'm tired, when I lay on my back, and more often in the winter when its cold or damp. So far  I've just ignored it and pressed  on but recently I find its getting to be more annoying. I also suffer from nosebleeds, post nasal drip(when its cold or damp) and shortness of breath (especially after sudden or streneous phsical activity) Oh yes, and I have battled bronchitis the last couple of winters.  Maybe I should see a pulmonary specialist. Did they help you much? I hate pill popping but if  I could learn some specific exercises to improve my lung function that would help. I also have an intolerance for cold(especially in the fingers) Woe is me! Overall I can't complain, I live a healthy and active life! Anyone recommend some exercises too improve the lungs? Thanks bassetgreg Wed, 15 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT Hi there, I am a 20 year survivor of Hodgkins. I recently was diagnosed and treated for colon cancer. I was told it may have developed due to the radiation I had over my abdomen. I recommend that all long term survivors get a colonoscopy. It is a painless procedure and could save you a lot of grief. My last checkup, I was cancer free but I still have to go through followups every 3 months for the next couple of years. Stay well and stay positive. Lance LToronto Thu, 03 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT Hello! I am a survivor of 15 years of Stage IIIB Hodkins, I was 22 when diagnosed and I am 37 now. I did 6 months of chemo and 3 months of radiation. For the first time since cancer, I am not anemic. I had a daughter 10 years to the day I was diagnosed, worse day became the best. I am seeing a Dr at Froedert, he has spoken to me about Breast, Lung, Stomach cancers, Heart Disease. I get mammograms every year. I am concerned a bit about the colon one, I had pre cancerous cells found after a hemmorhoidectomy (I know gross, and VERY painful). I had a colonscopy about a year later because of bleeding, just found fissure that hasnt healed, still think its there. I am due for another one. Cancer Dr doesnt seem concerned. I dont know what to think. I just read about stomach cancers from those of you, makes me nervous. I have developed a more sensitive stomach to food, I typically have stomach of steel, but lately, depending on what I eat, I get horrible cramps and run to the bathroom. Hopefully, not a sign of stomach cancer. I am overweight and need to lose it badly. But other than that I am doing good, bad cholosterol is excellent, and good cholosterol is really low... need to work on losing weight, but Dr said that can also be partially caused from radiation to chest area. Says I could be seeing heart doctor soon, if I cant get good cholesterol higher. The side affects are scary! I live with alot of anxiety... fear of leaving my daughter. I am not as scared of dying as I used to be, I am scared of leaving her alone, noone loves her like I do, and I fear something happening to me and it really scares me. I cant get life insurance from anywhere because of Hodgkins. I would have nothing to leave her. Anyone with those fears? God bless all of you and your families, especially your health! survivorhodgkins Tue, 05 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT Hello! I am a survivor of 15 years of Stage IIIB Hodkins, I was 22 when diagnosed and I am 37 now. I did 6 months of chemo and 3 months of radiation. For the first time since cancer, I am not anemic. I had a daughter 10 years to the day I was diagnosed, worse day became the best. I am seeing a Dr at Froedert, he has spoken to me about Breast, Lung, Stomach cancers, Heart Disease. I get mammograms every year. I am concerned a bit about the colon one, I had pre cancerous cells found after a hemmorhoidectomy (I know gross, and VERY painful). I had a colonscopy about a year later because of bleeding, just found fissure that hasnt healed, still think its there. I am due for another one. Cancer Dr doesnt seem concerned. I dont know what to think. I just read about stomach cancers from those of you, makes me nervous. I have developed a more sensitive stomach to food, I typically have stomach of steel, but lately, depending on what I eat, I get horrible cramps and run to the bathroom. Hopefully, not a sign of stomach cancer. I am overweight and need to lose it badly. But other than that I am doing good, bad cholosterol is excellent, and good cholosterol is really low... need to work on losing weight, but Dr said that can also be partially caused from radiation to chest area. Says I could be seeing heart doctor soon, if I cant get good cholesterol higher. The side affects are scary! I live with alot of anxiety... fear of leaving my daughter. I am not as scared of dying as I used to be, I am scared of leaving her alone, noone loves her like I do, and I fear something happening to me and it really scares me. I cant get life insurance from anywhere because of Hodgkins. I would have nothing to leave her. Anyone with those fears? God bless all of you and your families, especially your health! survivorhodgkins Tue, 05 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT  I am 40. Was initailly diagnosed at 20 years and then at 33 years, Just had a scan and its back. terrified. LargeDark Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT I think I get the prize. 41 years since i was diagnosed in 1967 i'm one of the early lab rats. i was 2 years old. heavy cobalt rads to the left head and neck, with a few thrown at my tummy just in case. 1970 shingles on the left forehead nearly blinded my left eye. Chronic migraines after until about three years ago.  they think it was caused by the radiation. don't remember a time when i didn't have the runs, aching back and painful hips. my left jaw and teeth underdeveloped so i'm lopsided to look at. Last year diagnosed as having Aspergers. three weeks ago diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer. LtCalley Wed, 20 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT  On 9/14/2006 Sammie1 wrote:I am a 20+ year survivor of Hodgkin’s Disease, radiation and chemo, and would like to hear from other long term survivors, radiation and chemo for any type of cancer, concerning any ongoing or new health problems. I have been told that I am a among some of the oldest survivors of treatment for cancer and that they have little data as to what to expect as far as my ongoing health and the effects my treatment will have on my future health. Perhaps we can compare notes and information. Thanks. I am 29 years old and was diagnosed with Stage IV Hodgkins Disease in 1993 about 1 month before my 15th birthday.  Today marks the anniversary of my last and final chemo 15 years ago.  I received 8 month of chemotherapy with no radiation. Like many of you I was also told I may not be able to have children.  Although I do not have any children and am not currently trying, I did get back some results that show my hormones are all ok so keep your fingers crossed.  I feel fine and havent had any problems so far.  Unfortunatly because of scar tissue, running is difficult.  I easily get winded and have trouble breathing.  This I would have to say is my only problem.  I just recently completed all my yearly exams and they all came back great.   I believe in my heart that I will be cured forever.  I think that once you have experinced cancer there will alwyas be a fear of "what if it comes back."  Faith goes a long way and all I have to say is that you are not alone if this is how you are feeling.  Good luck to all of you out there.  You are all my heros !!!  PriscillaL Tue, 08 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT I am coming up to 16 years of being clear of Hodgkins.  I have several months of cemo and then 4 weeks of intense radio. Last week I discovered a lump in my neck and I am terrified.  Going back to the doctor who treated me previous for a check.  It feels like it's starting all over again.  Does anybody else get swollen nodes in the neck?  This is the first time I have noticed them since being clear. globe97 Fri, 23 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT I am a 15-year survivor of stage IIA Hodgkin's, diagnosed at age 28, treated with radiation to lower jaw, neck, chest. Skinin the irradiated zone is somewhat sensitive to heat and sunlight, andhair has not grown back quite the same, so back of head and neck always feel funny. Learned to like crew cuts long ago. A few times I'vecome down with bad bronchitis or pneumonia, but Zithromax helps a lotwith that (highly recommended; take at least 3 z-packs). I alsodeveloped many small dental cavities on my lower teeth. Had yearly CTscans and follow-up visits. If I could do it over again, Icertainly would NOT take the radiation treatments. Just thinking aboutthat horrible experience makes me nauseous. I absolutely DESPISE thearrogant prick doctors who did this to me, and often fantasize aboutgoing back to the hospital and forcing them to go under the goddamnedx-ray machine at gunpoint, so they can get zapped. I HATE my family forencouraging me to take these treatments, and HATE myself for deciding,in a moment of weakness, to go along with them. I knew I was making abig mistake at the time, but gave in to the pressure. Horrible. In thefuture, I will NOT take any further cancer treatments, PERIOD. END OFSTORY.As the years go by, it gets harder and harder for me tolive with the knowledge that I submitted to these treatments. Isincerely wish I could be less bitter, but unfortunately, I cannot. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to get this off my chest.  Mojox Tue, 26 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT Dear Sammie1: I hope you will still get this -- I see that you posted this over 2 years ago!  I am a 34-year survivor of Hodgkins -- I was treated in 1973 when I was 8 years old.  I have been very lucky, with limited long-term effects, but in the last couple of years I've had chronic neck and shoulder pain -- dr. says it's because of the underdeveloped muscles in that area.  Does anyone else have this problem?  I'd love to hear from you about  how you are dealing with it -- it is getting worse! chandigar Wed, 17 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT  On 1/5/2007 Becca12056 wrote:Hi,  I might just win the prize here.  I had HD 32 years ago!  At that time I had massive doses of radiation to the neck and chest area.  I have been cancer free since that time with no severe side effects.  I had my thyroid removed three years ago due to the fact that it just stopped functioning and I had several nodules.  My doctor recently suggested that I go to an ENT for a scan and possible dialation of my esophagus.   I have some swallowing problems which he thinks is due to scar tissue.  Other than that, I am about to celebrate my 51st birthday, have two beautiful daughters, a husband (of 32 years....We had just married when I was diagnosed!) and teach a class of rowdy fifth graders every day.  I live a very full, active life and expect to keep it up for the next 50 years!  Glad I found this site and look forward to talking to "all ya'll" (I'm from Louisiana) again. Dear Becca:I am so excited to talk to another long-term survivor!  I just found this site and I can't believe it -- I've been wanting to talk to others like me for so long!  I'm a 34-year HD survivor -- I was treated in 1973 when I was 8 years old.  I've been pretty lucky but now I'm having neck and shoulder problems.  Have you experienced that at all?  I'm interested to know how other survivors have dealt with the damage caused by radiation to the neck/chest area.  Hope to hear from you soon! chandigar Wed, 17 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT