Brandon’s story
My Hodgkin’s journey
Journey to diagnosis
Before being diagnosed with Stage 4 classical Hodgkin lymphoma, I was working long hours and keeping up with an active lifestyle. I had lower back pain and remember feeling tired all the time. It didn’t occur to me that these symptoms could be something serious. It wasn’t until I woke up one day feeling like my entire body was swollen that I decided it was time to see my doctor.
Making the next move
After receiving my diagnosis, I remember thinking about it like a game of basketball. When the ball comes your way, you have to catch it, consider your options, and make a decision to get the best shot at scoring. Sometimes your next step is clear, and other times, you get the ball and feel overwhelmed, as if the opposing team is running straight toward you.
For me, being diagnosed with cancer felt like the latter; the ball was in my hands, and I had important decisions to make in a critical window of time, but I didn’t know exactly which way to turn. What I did know was that I had teammates who would assist and support me along the way.
After I was diagnosed, I did a lot of research, read through resources, and watched testimonials from other people living with classical Hodgkin lymphoma. I also worked closely with my doctor to find a treatment option that would be right for me.”
Talking with my doctor and asking a lot of questions helped me feel confident about getting ADCETRIS® (brentuximab vedotin) along with chemotherapy.
Trusting my teammates
Over time, I developed a close relationship with my care team. They answered any questions I had throughout the treatment process, kept my spirits up, and helped me stick to my normal routine and hobbies as much as possible.
It’s so important to have a strong support system that’s with you from diagnosis and through the highs and lows of treatment.”
Keeping my head in the game
During treatment, I wanted to live my life as I did before my Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis, but knew that I would have to make some changes. I was able to find ways to see myself as more than a patient at times, which helped me look forward to what life could be like after treatment.
Now that I’m in remission, I’m excited about what’s to come and the future that lies ahead.”
Experiences with ADCETRIS differ among individuals. ADCETRIS will not work for everyone, and it’s important to be informed about possible side effects. Ask your doctor if ADCETRIS is right for you.
View questions to ask your doctor
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