This Men’s Health Week, we're sharing personal stories from some of our male supporters, reflecting on their lived experience of lymphoma:
- Craig reflects on his experience with classical Hodgkin lymphoma and life after treatment.
- Diagnosed with follicular lymphoma, Ian describes the mental challenge of having a cancer that doesn't need immediate treatment.
- Matt talks about his treatment for non-Hodgkin lymphoma and shares why he wants others, particularly men, to know that it is OK to feel vulnerable and show emotion.
- Bradley shares his diagnosis and treatment for grey zone lymphoma, a rare type of lymphoma.
There’s still a bit of an old-fashioned way of thinking out there that men have to be tough and that by not crying they are showing their masculinity. But that’s really not the case – it’s normal to feel emotion. The more you bottle things up the more they get on top of you.
If you are affected by lymphoma, please remember we are here to support you. Our Helpline Services offer information and support to anyone affected by the condition, while our Facebook Support Group provides connection with a community that understands living with and beyond lymphoma. We provide a range of other services too, including Support Meetings, our Buddy Service, Preparing for Treatment Service, and our Live your Life programme for people who have completed lymphoma treatment or are on active monitoring. You can also find a wealth of information and resources for people affected by lymphoma, whether they have received a diagnosis themselves or are supporting a loved one.
However you’re affected by lymphoma, we are here for you.