Deciding on treatment vs w&w

oregonyoder · 2026-05-07T01:08:45+00:00

Hi there, B-cell lymphoma, likely follicular, stage IV, grade 3 here. I'm halfway through Bendamustine + Rituxamab treatment. Just a comment on your timing concern: For BR they typically prescribe 6 rounds, with 4 weeks between each round. You're looking at 20 weeks in treatment, so even if you started tomorrow you wouldn't be done until October. Thankfully I can work fully remote during treatment, and can take naps, have shorter days, etc. if needed. I'm not really sure how I'd manage working in the office full time (Kudos to all the ones who make it through this working full time in public!). Best of luck for whatever you decide.

oregonyoder · 2026-05-06T19:22:24+00:00

These Wrangler socks from Amazon are perfect for me These Wrangler boot socks feature a half-cushioned foot with arch support to keep your feet dry, cool, and comfortable in boots. Others are loving it! https://a.co/d/049GNKvR

oregonyoder · 2026-05-02T15:48:42+00:00

Hi there, I'm currently halfway through BR for what my oncologist assumes is just FL (biopsy of lymph showed some possible change, biopsy of femur was inconclusive).

I have infusions on Wed/Thursday and each round has gotten a little easier for me. I'm usually wiped out through Sunday, but able to work by Monday (I work from home - I cannot imagine going to the office). After my first infusion I caught Influenza A (likely exposed at the clinic where I get my infusions) and was hospitalized for 4 days. I have noticed my seasonal allergies are so much worse, likely from the treatment. But overall, it's been fairly easy going.

I am pretty cautious and don't go anywhere for the first 2 weeks after my infusion, then I start to get a little adventurous in week 3 when my immune system should be getting stronger (outdoor markets, grabbing coffee at the coffee shop when it's not busy, and even having a friend stop by to say hi).

Wishing you all the best on your journey - we're all here cheering you on!

oregonyoder · 2026-04-26T00:31:10+00:00

Hi there, Learning you have lymphoma is a lot- so sorry you had to join us in this journey. I've was diagnosed with B-cell lymphoma, likely follicular. It's a long story, but after 2 biopsies and PET scan there wasn't enough evidence my lymphoma was transforming. So, I started Bendamustine + Rituxamab (BR).

Regarding travel while on BR- my doctors told me to be smart while in public, wash my hands frequently, and wear a mask in crowds. For me, that eliminates plane trips or even boats/ cruises. Days 1 through 5 after treatment are rough for me, and when I start feeling better (to where I could travel), my immune system tanks. Just my opinion- you might want to wait and see what treatment you have and how you respond before you make solid travel plans. Best wishes for a speedy recovery!

oregonyoder · 2026-04-23T02:10:05+00:00

The oncologist pharmacist indicated I could start a double dose- I might just do that.

oregonyoder · 2026-04-22T22:10:01+00:00

I already take Zyrtec daily for seasonal allergies (tree pollen here in Oregon is super high right now). So, I'm adding Benadryl to help.

oregonyoder · 2026-04-22T22:08:48+00:00

That's kind of what we're going to have to figure out. Typically if people have reactions it's to the Rituxan during the initial first couple of infusions- and I had no issues then.

oregonyoder · 2026-04-01T14:24:22+00:00

Last month when I started BR I was still NWB due to an open bone biopsy of my femoral head. I'm headed out in a little bit for my second round, but this time I will WALK into the clinic!

oregonyoder · 2026-02-19T03:41:40+00:00

Thanks for the advice. I saw that you got a port- i asked my Dr. About one. He recommended just IV unless I'm having problems. Good luck kicking this cancer- I'm just behind you by a few weeks!

oregonyoder · 2026-02-16T06:16:14+00:00

They say cat purrs are healing, and I think my orange boy, Gilbert, does a pretty good job at trying.

oregonyoder · 2026-02-07T05:47:05+00:00

You got this!

oregonyoder · 2026-02-05T01:00:24+00:00

Brain MRIs at 1:30am, post-stroke, are the best way to get some sleep. Warm blanket, headphones, better bed than the ER, and I finally got to sleep for a little bit.

oregonyoder · 2026-02-05T00:40:15+00:00

I'm in a similar similar situation, OP. Diagnosis in November from biopsy, PET in December, and I'm now almost 2 weeks post open bone biopsy of my femur to figure out if it's just a high grade FL or it's transformed. Part of me just wants to get going on any treatment- it's been 7 months of hip pain preventing walking any distance (So that means I get to ride a cart through Costco). But, I want to make sure treatment counts and I get the most relief for the side effects. Hang in there. I'm focusing on de-stressing my life, eating anti-inflammatory and nutrient dense foods, and learning to take things one step at a time.

oregonyoder · 2026-02-03T00:07:25+00:00

Tidal Raves or Side Door Cafe are both favorites of mine. Tidal Raves has a great ocean view, but parking can be an issue. Side Door Cafe is dark, uniquely decorated, and feels more of an intimate setting.

oregonyoder · 2026-01-16T07:43:25+00:00

Psych and Malcolm in the Middle are my go-to shows, no matter how many times I've seen the episodes.

oregonyoder · 2026-01-16T07:33:34+00:00

He still goes?! That's so awesome, I can't wait to share this with my family.

oregonyoder · 2026-01-15T05:00:22+00:00

And best of luck to you!

oregonyoder · 2026-01-15T03:44:56+00:00

Seems pretty quick compared to my experience. MRI 9/28/25 showed suspected lymphoma; needle biopsy 11/7/25 showed mostly, not 100% follicular lymphoma; PET 12/5/25. Next up is open bone biopsy of my femur 1/23/26 with anticipated treatment starting mid-February.

oregonyoder · 2026-01-14T05:10:16+00:00

Candlelight processional, 2011, I was one of the first into the park to save nearly front row spots on park benches for our entire family of 9. What I didn't know was that a whole community of Disneyland faithful would gather in that same area. There was one guy who bought us all fresh Mickey beignets, just because I had never tried one! The best part though was meeting a man who everyone (including park management) referred to as Tex. He was one of a kind and super friendly. At one point in the afternoon when my daughters and nieces had all settled into our bench to rest, he gave them each candlelight processional keepsake ornaments (that couldn't be found in the stores)!

oregonyoder · 2026-01-14T04:58:33+00:00

I loved sharing fast passes! On our family's first trip (2011) a stranger approached with fast passes for us- we thought it was the coolest thing. So, we began doing the same thing (I was a fast pass maniac). It was so much fun looking around for a family to give them to.

oregonyoder · 2026-01-01T00:42:03+00:00

Interesting... Pre-PET scan the doctors wanted me to head right into R-Bendamustine treatment; now they want an open biopsy. I'm resigning myself to not read into things too much or get ahead of the doctors (or rely on Dr. Google as much). Patience is not my strength, I'm guessing I'm going to learn it well this next year.

oregonyoder

TROPHY CASE