A 22-year-old woman’s life took a dramatic turn when she discovered a lump on her collarbone, leading to a diagnosis of stage 2 Hodgkin lymphoma. In September 2024, she began experiencing severe fatigue and persistent itching, symptoms she initially attributed to the demands of her job in a fast-paced environment managing boat shows. Despite her active lifestyle, she dismissed her health concerns until they became overwhelming.
On Thanksgiving 2024, during a family gathering in Tampa, Florida, she noticed a lump on the left side of her collarbone. Although her family did not express immediate concern, she scheduled an appointment with her dermatologist for January 2025. However, her condition worsened. By mid-December, she was in significant pain, struggling to sleep and feeling an instinctual need to seek medical attention.
On December 19, she contacted her mother in distress, convinced that something was seriously wrong. Trusting her instincts, she checked herself into the emergency room. Initial examinations suggested possible muscle spasms or arthritis, but subsequent X-rays revealed distorted tissue below her neck, prompting further investigation through CT scans.
On December 31, just hours before the New Year, two oncologists delivered the life-altering news: she had cancer. The diagnosis was confirmed as stage 2 Hodgkin lymphoma, and her treatment began swiftly. She underwent chemotherapy starting in January 2025, all while adapting to a new remote work environment.
The chemotherapy process was isolating and challenging, particularly as she found herself one of the youngest patients in the infusion room. Despite her fears, she focused on her recovery, freezing her eggs and navigating the treatment with resilience. She completed her chemotherapy in May 2025, and on June 2, she received the joyous news that she was in remission.
The emotional toll of the experience was profound. Struggling with the changes in her body—especially the loss of her long hair, which she had cherished as a part of her identity—she embraced a pivotal moment when she decided to shave her head. This decision, made impulsively, felt liberating yet daunting.
In an effort to connect with others undergoing similar experiences, she began sharing her cancer journey on TikTok, where she found a supportive community of young women facing cancer. This outreach transformed her experience, allowing her to advocate for herself and others, highlighting the importance of trusting one’s instincts regarding health concerns.
Now, nearly a year after her diagnosis, she reflects on the ongoing challenges she faces, including anxiety and cognitive difficulties often referred to as “chemo brain.” She has taken short-term disability leave to focus on her mental health and is learning to navigate social situations with confidence.
As she continues her journey of recovery, she emphasizes the significance of self-advocacy. “Always trust your gut. Advocate for yourself if you think something is wrong, especially if it’s out of the ordinary,” she advises. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in health matters and the power of community support during life-altering challenges.
