Non-Hodgkins lymphoma, I'm Confused?

Question

Last summer my mom was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Doctors said it is the most curable cancer. Mom had chemo and last December was pronounced cured. Tonight on "Stand Up To Cancer" they said the survial rate for non-Hodgkins is only two years. I don't understand. I'm so scared and worried now. Can anybody explain? Thanks.

Answer 1

Before you read this, don't just focus on the negative aspects....see the positive in the fact that your Mom is not sick.

The long term survival rate for women and people under the age of 65 is much higher than it is for men.  

There are 12 different categories of non hodgkins lymphoma and some are worse than others and it all depends on what cell type the lymphoma originates in.  

With cancer, there is always the possibility of it returning-the word "cure" should be replaced with the word remission-your mom is in remission which means the same thing as cure, except the word cure implies that the threat is gone, and its not.  After 5 years, with no cancer, the chance of it returning decreases significantly.  Lymphomas do have a high success rate of staying in remission than compared to other cancers.  All you can do is keep encouraging your Mom to go for regular checkups so that if it does come back, they catch it early and can treat her again.  You can also educate yourself as to what the signs and symptoms are for lymphoma and make sure your Mom is educated on this as well.  

Here are the signs and symptoms:  large, painless lymph nodes usually in the neck area but can be other places as well.  Other signs and symptoms malaise (listlessness, no energy), fever, night sweats.

My best to you!!

Answer 2

If they caught it early enough and said she's in remission, she probably is. They are probably talking about people who are diagnosed in later stages and have not had treatment, and things like that.

I don't know as much about Non-Hodgkins as Hodgkin's, but it is usually better if it is found while it is above the diaphragm (which divides the chest from the abdomen). There are a lot of factors, but it sounds very good for your Mom.

Answer 3

Your mom is cured honey. They are talking about something so different.

Just give her an extra tight hug tonight. She will be changing your kids diapers I promise!