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.
