Inspirational Stories

I was diagnosed in 1974 at the age of 24 with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). I had never even heard of it. The doctors did not know if I would survive as it was very aggressive. I had exploratory surgery (CAT scans and MRIs did not exist then as far as I know) and five weeks of radiation (I still glow in the dark, saves on night lights!!). Other than a couple of "unusual lymph nodes" over the years, I have been cancer-free. I went on to have two more great careers and was happily married for the first time at 49. I have helped with Light The Night (LTN) here in San Jose, and my sister did Team In Training (TNT) as we both recognize the great work The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) does. Many years ago, I started having a yearly Appetizer Party fundraiser with my husband's help at our house, putting my culinary background to good use. I will be 72 this year. My husband and sister tell me that I have made a difference in this world because I survived.