How did a routine physical lead to a cancer diagnosis?

A doctor felt a lump on the patient's neck during a routine physical at age 14, prompting further investigation that revealed stage 3b Hodgkin lymphoma.

What treatment was needed for the patient's cancer?

The patient underwent eight cycles of chemotherapy followed by six weeks of radiation for Hodgkin lymphoma, and later a stem cell transplant for myelodysplastic syndrome.

How did the patient connect with her stem cell donor?

After a period of restricted communication, the patient connected with her German donor, Frank, through phone calls and eventually met him, developing a deep, lifelong friendship.

Home / Health / Teen's Cancer Battle Ignites Lifelong Bond with Donor

Teen's Cancer Battle Ignites Lifelong Bond with Donor

5 Mar

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Summary

Diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma at 14, later with MDS and thyroid cancer.
Received a life-saving stem cell transplant from a German donor.
Now a nurse at her treatment center, inspired by her own experience.

Teen's Cancer Battle Ignites Lifelong Bond with Donor

A teenager's routine physical at age 14 in 2001 led to a diagnosis of stage 3b Hodgkin lymphoma. Her freshman year of high school was marked by chemotherapy and radiation treatments. By November of her sophomore year, she was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome, a preleukemic condition resulting from her prior treatment.

Her only hope for survival was a stem cell transplant, but finding a match without a sibling proved challenging. After seven months of transfusions while awaiting a donor, a perfect match was found. The transplant occurred on August 21, 2003, which she now celebrates as her second birthday. Recovery was intense, but she was back on her feet within a year.