Non-hodgkin's Lymphoma Support Group

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer arising from lymphocytes, a type of white blood cells. It is so called because of its distinction from Hodgkin's disease, a particular subtype of lymphoma. It is in fact an overarching term of many different forms of lymphoma, each with individual characteristics. Most cases start with infiltration of lymph nodes, but specific...

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cljjlk 10/05/2013

I'm one of the lucky ones. I only had to do three rounds of R-CHOP as opposed to six. Although, I suffered doing the three, especially number two. The whole experience is something I hope I never have to experience again.

Now I start the radiation therapy. My friends are telling me that this shouldn't be bad as compared to the chemo. However, even my Oncologist didn't think I would have as tough of a time with the chemo as I did. So consequently, I'm a little apprehensive, but on the other hand trying to remain positive that radiation will have minimal side effects.

Anyone that has done radiation after R-CHOP, I would appreciate some feedback. Did you experience the same type of fatigue? Did it effect your WBC? R-CHOP for me made my WBC plummet and had it not been for Nuprogen, I would not been able to tolerate the treatment. After #2, I was hospitalized with infections and WBC of 0.2. Not fun, but then this whole experience is no picnic. However, we have no alternative and the best advice is to stay positive and do what we can to remain healthy.

Thanks for any advice,
CL

lexisgirl 10/05/2013

I have not done radiation after RCHOP but I have done radiation and I've done Rituxan in the past...just not together. Where are they radiating? Do you know how much you will be having? I have a tumor in my eyebrow that we radiated in June. I did just 2 sessions. I was very nervous but it went find and was fairly easy for me. But I was not deep radiation. My skin was irritated and I was tired. I was surprised by the fatigue. It wasn't the same as the fatigue I had from Rituxan though. It wasn't that severe.

I think your radiation experience depends on where and how much. Because you are just treating one area instead of your whole body like chemo, it shouldn't be an troublesome. The biggest pain is having to go in every single day...on time.

Congrats on finishing Chemo. That is a huge accomplishment. I hope you are pausing to celebrate that milestone.

cljjlk 10/06/2013

Thanks Lexisgirl,
My lymphoma was located in a lymph node in my right groin. I don't know how much radiation I'm to receive yet; meet with the Radio-Oncologist on Tuesday.
Yes I'm a little anxious, I am hoping that I don't have side effects like the chemo, especially effecting the WBC.
Thanks for the support,
CL

cljjlk 10/10/2013

I met with my radiation oncologist on Tuesday and he has determined that I'll receive 18 treatments. I will begin on next Monday (10/14). I believe he said the dosage would be 36gy. Is that normal, low or high? They also provided me with samples and recommendations for lotions, etc. to help heal the skin. The staff were really friendly and helpful. I agree, I think the worst part is going there daily. I'll keep you posted.
CL

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