Julie Desrochers

A bump on Julie's head 10 years ago lead to a diagnosis of Follicular B-Cell Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Although her only symptom was the bump, the cancer was confirmed in dozens of lymph nodes via CT-scan and in a biopsy of her hip bone. This type of cancer is indolent - it grows slowly and tends to keep to the lymphatic system and not bother other organs. The recommendation for this type of cancer is to "watch and wait". Early treatment may appear to work short term, but does not cure the cancer, as the cancer source is a gene mutation in a particular B white blood cell as it matures from a stem cell in her bones.

A few months ago, following a bout of shingles, Julie was left with lower back and hip pain. Several new tests revealed that her lymphoma had taken on a new much faster tempo in new locations - around several vertebrae and a very large node deep near her hip bone. These are the type of serious complications we had been watching for, and mark the end of the waiting time, and the need to begin aggressive treatment.

Tim has set up this site to facilitate our beloved friends and family staying up to date, as well as coordinate the spiritual and practical helps we will need through this stage of Julie's battle. Julie may also make her own updates as she is inspired to and has energy for.