Karen, 54, made changes to her lifestyle following her diagnosis with lymphoma. She now feels healthier, both physically and mentally
'I was diagnosed with low-grade lymphoma (stage 1) in September of 1995. I received 17 radiation treatments and have been cancer free for 10 years. I now visit my doctor once a year for a chest X-ray, blood tests and an ultrasound of the pelvic and abdomen area. Although cancer free for 10 years, I still live with the possibility of a relapse.
'Having been diagnosed with cancer at the age of 44 was a real wake-up call for a lifestyle change. I quit smoking immediately, having smoked for 20 years. I was also overweight and underexercised. I now weight train 3 days per week and have lost 30 lbs. I feel healthier, both physically and mentally, than I did 10 years ago. I do not dwell on the fact that I might relapse, although a relapse is always at the back of my mind. But I now feel constantly in tune with my body and seldom have a sick day.
'My oncologist released me to the care of my GP in January 2005. He would never use the word 'cured' but says that I have progressed very well. He feels there is a good chance of me remaining cancer free.'
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