Being diagnosed with Lymphoma - stories from real people
Why did you go for tests?
Terry, diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma
"The lump came up out of nowhere, under my chin on my neck. I thought it was an abscess on my tooth but then I was referred to the haematology department."
Leslie, diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma
"I smiled when I finally got the cancer diagnosis, which might seem strange, but at least now I knew what was wrong. It was scary not knowing what was wrong with me."
Toby, diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma
"I had a huge swollen neck on one side and decided I would see my GP who, after initially sending me home, called me up and booked me in to have a biopsy."
What helped when you were diagnosed with lymphoma?
Christina, diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma
"When you are diagnosed with cancer, there are so many thoughts, fears, worries and uncertainties. You have to find a way to cope with it. My method of dealing with it has been to write a blog chronicling in detail my story."
Megan, diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma
"I felt scared. I didn’t know what was coming and I felt a bit lost as well. Macmillan were there for me from the start."
Toby, diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma
"Alison was my Macmillan nurse. She sat with me as I was being diagnosed and made sure I had somewhere to sit while waiting for family to arrive. Alison was always available to be friendly smile when I entered the waiting room."
If you are worried about symptoms
The most common symptom of lymphoma is a painless swelling or lump in the neck, armpit or groin. This is caused by lymphoma cells building up in the lymph nodes, which makes them bigger.
There are different causes of swollen lymph nodes. But if you notice a painless, swollen lymph node, it is important to get it checked by your GP.
More information about lymphoma
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