Hi
My name is Ellen, and my sister was diagnosed with IV lymphoma...it is affecting 60% of bone marrow they say, and her spleen. She has an immune problem, and takes gammaglobulin monthly..she inherited this from my mom. They were going to start chemo this Wed..but the tumor board said she needs a spleenectomy before this can start due to it being cancer filled..now they are going to meet a week from this Tues to decide what to do..
I am totally confused..doesn't this wait give time for the cancer to invade other organs..she has been sick for so long, this just adds to the grief our family is going through. She is going to be using rituxan with the chemo..she doesn't want us there, she is alone, she is also 51 yrs old.
It just seems to me, with this wait, the Dr have written her off..maybe I am wrong.
I just need someone who has been through this to talk to. She is an adult, and can make her own decisions about what she wants...but this is killing my folks. She has always been a loner..so this decision is not surprising, but still troubling.
I would appreciate talking to someone who has gone through this..or had a family member who has.
Thank-you so much for your time..
Ellen
I am real sorry to hear what is happening. I know there is a frustration on waiting and delaying things but the physicians are doing, I believe, a proper diagnosis to go forward with the best course of action. I also know it is difficult that she is closing everyone out but she is also going through a very difficult time and even though it sounds trite, try to do what you can to give her the support that she wants and needs. It is tough to be positive but remember that people get through this and sometimes just letting her know that you are there if she needs you is enough.
Ellen,
How is your sister? Did they remove her spleen? How are her chemo treatments going?
My Dad was just diagnosed with Mantle Cell Lymphoma. I am on here reading experiences to share with him.
Cathy