Lymphoma Australia

Life after a lymphoma diagnosis feels like a reset you never asked for. Lonely, exhausting, and completely different to the life you knew before.

I was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in May 2025 and reached remission in September after intensive chemotherapy. But remission doesn't mean life suddenly goes back to normal. Finding my "new normal" is still something I work through every day.

People often say starting over means starting from experience, not from scratch. But cancer feels deeper than that. You're not just rebuilding your life; you're rediscovering yourself. Your perspective shifts, your body feels fragile, your brain doesn't work the way it used to, and at times it can feel incredibly isolating.

One thing I've realised is that cancer comes in three parts: before, during treatment, and after. The first two phases come with appointments, support, and funded care. The "after" phase often doesn't. Yet post-treatment recovery can impact every part of your life: mental health, work, relationships, finances, identity, and overall wellbeing.

Treatment ending doesn't mean healing has finished. In many ways, that's when the real work begins.

Throughout my recovery, organisations like Lymphoma Australia have made a huge difference. The peer support, webinars, nurses, and staff create a space where people feel understood and connected, especially when life after treatment can feel so isolating.

One of the biggest things keeping me motivated has been giving back. Volunteering, participating in research and co-design programs, sharing my story, and advocating for better post-treatment support has helped me stay connected to purpose.

That's why this year I'm going Dry this July to raise awareness and funds for Lymphoma Australia, and to advocate for better support not only during cancer treatment, but long after it ends.

Because treatment ending doesn't mean the journey is over.

If you or someone you know is affected by lymphoma and needs support, you can call 1800 953 081 to speak with a lymphoma care nurse.

Navigating Lymphoma: Melanie’s Experience

The Diagnosis: A Shocking Beginning

At 36, Melanie was living a busy life as a doctor and a mum when a small, painless lump appeared above her left collarbone. Though small, it was hard to ignore, and she quickly realised something was wrong. The wait for answers was one of the most isolating and terrifying times of her life.

After several tests, Melanie was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL). Along with the lump, she developed a persistent cough, leaving her uncertain about what the future would hold.

Treatment and the Road to Recovery

The diagnosis brought difficult decisions. Melanie had to stop breastfeeding her 2.5-year-old son and underwent fertility preservation before starting treatment. She began chemotherapy, followed by radiotherapy.

Treatment was physically and emotionally exhausting. She experienced severe pain, fatigue, and struggled with the side effects, relying heavily on support from family and friends.

Support and Resources

During treatment, Melanie discovered Lymphoma Australia and ordered a welcome kit, which she described as “beautifully packaged with thoughtful items that made me feel genuinely cared for.”

The nurse care line became one of her most important supports.

“Even to me as a doctor, it was such a comfort to know there was expert support available whenever I needed it,” she said.

The nurses helped her understand side effects and supported her through the fear of relapse, always taking the time to listen.

Melanie also joined the Lymphoma Australia Facebook support group, which became a valuable source of strength and connection.

Looking Back and Moving Forward

Melanie’s experience has changed her perspective on life, helping her focus on what truly matters.

“Lymphoma may have shaped my journey, but it won’t define my future.”

Your Support Makes a Difference

Support during Dry July helps Lymphoma Australia provide vital care and resources to patients like Melanie, ensuring no one faces lymphoma alone.

If you or someone you know is affected by lymphoma and needs support, call 1800 953 081 to speak with a nurse.

Thanks to support from Dry July in 2025 and our community, Lymphoma Australia has been able to expand our Specialist Lymphoma Care Nurse team, welcoming Emily to provide vital support to patients across the country.

With over 10 years’ experience in haematology and lymphoma clinical trials, Emily brings expert knowledge and compassionate care to every patient she supports. She helps individuals and their families understand their diagnosis, navigate treatment options, and feel supported at every stage of their journey.

Lymphoma is increasingly common, with around 7,900 Australians diagnosed each year, which is roughly 21 new cases every day. Emily is helping bridge gaps in access to care, ensuring more people receive specialist lymphoma support, no matter where they live.

As part of our national nurse team, Emily contributes to supporting over 12,000 Australians affected by lymphoma each year, helping more people feel informed, supported, and never alone.

This is the impact of Dry July. Your support is helping deliver expert care, when and where it is needed most.

This is the first time Lymphoma Australia has taken part in Dry July, and we’re doing it for a powerful reason.

Every day in Australia, more than 20 people are diagnosed with lymphoma. Each diagnosis brings shock, uncertainty and a flood of questions.

With over 100 different subtypes of lymphoma, navigating this disease can be incredibly complex. That’s why our Specialist Lymphoma Care Nurses, like Liz, are so vital.

Liz answers calls every day from people who are scared and overwhelmed. Through our free 1800 Lymphoma Nurse Support Line, she helps patients and their families make sense of what a diagnosis means, what treatment options are available and how to take the next step forward.

“I often hear people say, ‘I don’t know what I would’ve done without you,’” Liz shares. “Whether it’s explaining treatments, helping them prepare for appointments, or just listening, I want every person to feel they’re not facing this alone.”

Our nurses are a trusted voice, a steady presence and a lifeline through one of the most overwhelming times in a person’s life.

But right now, there are simply not enough nurses to meet the growing demand.

Funds raised through Dry July will help us change that. With your support, we can fund another nurse to join our team and reach more people facing lymphoma across the country.

This is more than just fundraising. It’s about making sure every person diagnosed with lymphoma has someone like Liz in their corner from day one.

When Craig committed to Dry July this year, he didn’t stop at 31 days. He’s going without alcohol for 61 days across June and July. He’s doing it in memory of his dad, who faced lymphoma with courage, and to raise funds to support other families on that same journey.

Six days in, Craig has already lost 2.5kg. But it’s not about the weight. It’s about showing up for the cause, even when it’s not easy.

At a recent event with 200 guests, Craig raised his glass to toast with everyone but stayed committed to the challenge.

“I filled my glass so I could take part in the moment, but I didn’t take a sip. It was hard, but I’m proud I stuck with it.”

Craig is a passionate board member of Lymphoma Australia. This challenge is deeply personal.

“I’m doing this for Dad and for every person still facing lymphoma today.”

Every dollar Craig raises helps fund our Specialist Lymphoma Care Nurses, who provide expert and compassionate support to patients and families across Australia.

These nurses are only a phone call away on 1800 359 081, offering trusted advice, a listening ear, and genuine care. Your support helps make sure no one faces lymphoma alone.

Who will you go Dry for?

Make it personal. Make it count.

Join Craig and go Dry this July.