When I first heard the words, “You have small non-Hodgkin lymphoma,” on 9th December 2023, it felt like my world had been turned upside down. At just 20 years old, with a promising career and a supportive family, I never imagined that cancer would become part of my story. There were many questions: “What does this mean for my future?” “How will I get through this?” My trip started with the well-known maelstrom of examinations, consultations, and medical jargon after I had complained of neck swellings that had grown larger over two years and were linked to my tendency to become fatigued easily.

I received counselling regarding the diagnosis, available treatments, and potential complications. Even though the road ahead appeared difficult, my family’s constant support kept me going. I went through the ups and downs of battling cancer during my therapy. In addition to times of unexpected power and resiliency, there were times of fatigue, uncertainty, and fear.

I completed 6 cycles of CHOP chemotherapy on 2nd May 2024, and after months of treatment, my haematologist confirmed that the lymphoma was in remission.

The feeling of relief and gratitude was indescribable. I had emerged from the battle stronger, not just physically but mentally and emotionally as well. The months of treatment were difficult, but they also taught me the true value of life, health, and the importance of living fully. My message to others is simple but powerful: “Don’t give up, and don’t let fear dictate your future. The journey is hard, but there is hope. Keep fighting, and you’ll find your strength along the way.”

My Journey Through T-Cell Lymphoma: From Diagnosis to Remission. In 2021, during my first year of senior high school, I was diagnosed with T-cell lymphoma. It all started with a lump on my arm, which I initially dismissed as nothing more than a fatty growth. But soon, more lumps began to appear, on my back, armpits, thighs, neck, and abdomen. They eventually ulcerated and became infected. Alongside the visible symptoms, I began losing weight rapidly, experienced night sweats, and completely lost my appetite.

My first hospitalisation was at a herbal clinic, but my condition did not improve. I was later referred to the regional hospital and then to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH), where I finally received a definitive diagnosis: T-cell lymphoma.

The treatment journey was incredibly difficult. There were times I had to default on my therapy, not because I wanted to, but because my father had exhausted all his financial resources. The burden on my family was overwhelming. Despite everything, I was determined to keep going. I managed to complete secondary school even as I battled the illness and paused treatment.

About a year after graduating, I began experiencing new symptoms including dizziness, relentless hiccups, and frequent vomiting. I returned to KBTH, where I was advised to restart chemotherapy, specifically the EPOCH regimen. I resumed treatment, and after months of struggle and perseverance, I completed my therapy in June 2024.

Today, I am proud to say that I am in remission. I now attend the University of Cape Coast and continue to receive follow-up care every three months at Cape Coast Teaching Hospital. This journey has tested every part of me physically, emotionally, and mentally, but it has also taught me resilience, hope, and the power of never giving up.

In 2018, at 20, I began experiencing what I initially believed to be a routine toothache. However, the pain progressed into noticeable swelling in my lower jaw. Concerned, I sought medical attention, and after a series of evaluations, I underwent surgery to remove what was presumed to be a benign lesion in the mandible.

To my shock, the postoperative pathology confirmed a diagnosis of Burkitt lymphoma, a rare and aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The news was overwhelming. I was introduced to a chemotherapy regimen known as INCTR, which offered hope due to its effectiveness in treating this type of lymphoma when diagnosed early.

The treatment journey was physically and emotionally demanding. In addition to the side effects of chemotherapy, I faced significant financial challenges that placed a strain on both myself and my family. Despite these difficulties, the support from loved ones and the dedication of the medical team sustained me through the process.

Today, in 2025, I am grateful to be in remission. I continue to attend regular follow-up clinic appointments at Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, where I receive routine evaluations to monitor my health with a full blood count and an LDH.

My experience has been transformative. While the journey was difficult, it has strengthened my resilience and deepened my appreciation for life and health. I share my story to offer hope and encouragement to others facing similar battles. There is a path forward, and with timely care and support, recovery is possible.

In 2022, I was diagnosed with Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). I underwent several rounds of chemotherapy under the R-CHOP regimen, which was challenging but effective.

When I received the diagnosis, all I said was, How do we get this treated? The doctors counselled me on the diagnosis and the treatment options available. They said they wanted the best and ideal treatment for me, so they had to add an expensive monoclonal antibody drug to it. Fortunately for me, my family was supportive, so I was able to purchase these drugs.

I received 6 cycles of R-CHOP, and my last therapy was on 21/12/22. Today, in 2025, I reported looking very well; the masses that were present 2 years ago have not reappeared, and my full blood count and LDH are all within the normal range. I have been rescheduled to be seen in 6 months.

I am positive that blood cancer patients who are well investigated and can afford appropriate, less toxic, and individualised therapy can do very well. I was able to afford it; how about the others? Let’s come together to fight blood cancer together.

I was diagnosed with multilineage Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), a condition that affected both my red blood cells and my platelets. At the time, I was anaemic and often felt weak and tired. My platelet count was also very low, which made the doctors concerned about possible bleeding.

I underwent initial treatment, and thankfully, my blood counts improved. Today, I am no longer anaemic, and my strength has returned. My platelet count is still mildly to moderately low, but it is stable, and I have not had any bleeding episodes.

Living with MDS while also managing diabetes has not been easy, but it has taught me discipline and faith. I attend my regular clinic reviews and monitor my blood counts closely.

I share my story to encourage others: improvement is possible, and stability is a blessing. With proper care and determination, we can continue to live well despite the diagnosis.