In the first week of June 1997, I was diagnosed with stage IIA HD. (Although I haven't had the bone marrow biopsy yet - so that may change.) I have been reading as much as I can on the internet trying to learn what is ahead of me and how best to deal with it.

My husband, Mike, and I (we are both 31) have been trying to get pregnant for 2.5 years with no luck. My fertility specialist's nurse said the lump near my clavicle was "nothing" when I asked her about it last December. (I rarely saw the doc himself.) I might have been stage I then - but, I'll try not to look back.

Mike was offered his dream job a week ago Wednesday. The following day I had my first cat scan and was told that it was probably a form of lymphoma. My doc's partner told me on the phone since he was out of town for a long weekend. Monday he said we needed to proceed with a biopsy. Tuesday I had the biopsy. Thursday pathology said it was nodular sclerosing Hodgkin's. Friday I met with my oncologist.

Since Mike will be headed out of town for 6 weeks of training in mid August, and since he will be relocated sometime during that training period, we are not tied to the area. Actually, we will not be tied to any area since he will be an airline pilot and can commute to where ever they base him. We decided our best option was for Mike and I to move in with my parents (in Upper Michigan). They'll be able to take good care of me while he is gone. My oncologist will call the Mayo Clinic to try to get me in for an appt. within the next week. It is about 4 hours from mom and dad's house.

Infertility has prepared me for this experience (somewhat). I have been taking great care of myself during the past several years. That includes working our with aerobics and weights, eating more fresh fruits and veggies and less meat and dairy, trying to stay calm, positive, and low stress. Several months ago, I started doing Yoga. I can't wait to read more about your (Diana's) visualization techniques. I strongly believe it will help me. I have already started some relaxation techniques on my own. But, I need help to get better at it.

I plan to get into a routine of mild exercise, relaxation, visualization, and eating well to help my mind, body, and spirit. Can't wait to hear the doctor say that I am responding to the chemo remarkably well!!! Before HD, and after a long tiring week, one of my favorite things to treat myself to is a sort-of home spa weekend - I would go to bed early, read, wake up relatively early, read, take a walk, eat good (healthy) food...do some yoga, take a bath - whatever I felt like. It really charged me up. I plan to do more of the same now. I think it will help.

I am scared. But, I am positive. I know I'll be fine in the long run.

Send Kim support! MONDO7@aol.com

©1997 Diana L.E.G. Hinnrichs