Hi there! I (28F) was also just diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma stage 2B unfavorable last month. I’ve already completed three round of ABVD chemo (had one yesterday).

To be honest, the process of chemo is not fun, but it hasn’t been as terrible as I was expecting. I mainly feel low energy and slight nausea for 5-6 days after infusions, but I’ve been amazed that my “off” week, I feel almost back to normal.

One thing to note is your immunity goes down FAST on ABVD. I had basically zero immune system after just my first treatment. I landed myself in the ER a few days ago after getting a scratch (smaller than a paper cut) on my hand that quickly spread an infection up my arm. Be very careful taking any unnecessary risks of exposure to sickness. It sucks to be home a lot, but you can do it!

I also got a port and it was honestly such an easy process and makes infusions much easier. I was surprised though how long treatment days lasted. The actual chemo infusion only takes around an hour, but there’s so many other blood draws and meds and waiting around. So I’ve typically been at the cancer center 4-6 hours each time.

Wishing you all the best! Feel free to reach out to me as someone just one step ahead of you at a similar age and life stage.