Welcome to a new path on life's journey! In December of this year I was diagnosed with lymphoma. Specifically, indolent B cell Non Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL). Rats! As if 2020 wasn't tough enough!
This all started with lower back pain due to a bulging disc pressing on a nerve. An MRI was done to determine the extent of the disc problem . The MRI showed bone lesions in my humerus, femur and iliac bones. These were unrelated to the disc pain which now seems to be healed. I am so grateful to a spine doctor at Tria Orthopedics in Bloomington who spotted this and referred me to an excellent oncologist at the University of Minnesota. Further testing (PET scan, bloodwork and biopsies) led to the discovery of lymphoma in the bone lesions, one lymph node in the abdomen area and one lymph node in the neck.
The good news is this type of cancer responds very well to treatment! I have no outward symptoms from the cancer and all results from testing blood are normal. No sign of lymphoma in the bone marrow.
The bad news is the treatment is going to be tough, 6 months of chemotherapy. Side effects are expected.
On the bright side my prognosis is very good. I feel great. On a scale of 0 - 10, with 0 being good, I am ranked at a 1 or 2 for successful treatment. My first treatment cycle begins Tuesday, December 22nd.
I will be taking a medical leave of absence from teaching. Helen, Karl and Erika will all be home for the holidays. My cats Cassie and Clover are providing cheer as they play games of "jump and tumble" around the house.
WHAT CAN YOU DO? Please call, text, email, and leave messages when ever you want. What makes me happiest is to see pictures or hear stories about what is happening with all of you.
If you have time, it would be great to have help with meals so I have set up a Meal Train: Peggy's Meal Train Link (
https://mealtrain.com/qm1gd9)
I know I will come out on the other side of this stronger than ever. I am filled with hope for the future.
Wishing you all love and peace!
