A Teen’s Unexpected Battle with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

As the year began, I eagerly anticipated the summer. At 18, I recently graduated high school and looked forward to creating cherished memories with friends. I was thrilled and proud, aiming to complete the year’s first half before celebrating.

Throughout my senior year, I adhered to routines and worked diligently. I faced a big year ahead. Despite noticing unusual symptoms, I focused on finishing school. Bruising appeared on my legs early in 2026. Playing tennis seemed to explain these marks, as occasional racket hits could cause them. Ignoring the bruises, my excessively itchy skin was harder to overlook. Sleepless nights followed, scratching until my legs bled, leaving scars.

As months passed, other symptoms emerged: night sweats, coughing, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Speaking full sentences caused coughing fits. Though aware something was wrong, I hoped it would improve, focusing on enjoying senior year. Despite plans for fun activities, exhaustion and lack of motivation were my constant companions.

In spring, I consulted a doctor about my persistent cough, which lasted nearly three months. He suspected seasonal asthma, prescribing an inhaler, but it provided no relief. Returning three weeks later, I reported bruises and itchy skin, suspecting more than allergies. He ordered a chest X-ray, and promptly called me back.

A CT scan revealed an eight-centimeter mass atop my lung and a swollen neck lymph node. Blood tests confirmed the diagnosis: Hodgkin’s lymphoma stage 2, on April 23, 2026. Despite always being healthy, this serious diagnosis was a shock.

I never imagined this reality, especially at 18. Everything moved quickly, leaving me overwhelmed by fear and questions, hoping for a simpler issue like a lung infection.

I began treatment with Nivolumab AVD chemotherapy, sessions lasting four to six hours, every two weeks. To date, I’ve completed five of twelve treatments. I experience extreme fatigue and nausea in the aftermath, requiring rest and sleep.

Cancer and chemotherapy affected every aspect of life. Physical exhaustion, nausea, infections, and hair loss make daily tasks challenging. Emotionally, transitioning from healthy to cancer-stricken at 18 proved incredibly tough. I cannot revert to my pre-diagnosis self.

Plans for summer memories now replaced with cancer center visits evoke feelings of exclusion, seeing friends enjoy summer without me. However, maintaining a positive mindset is crucial. This experience taught resilience, highlighted supportive relationships, and underscored appreciation for life’s small pleasures.

Listen to your body. If something feels amiss, seek medical advice without delay.

While in the midst of my journey, I aim to remind others about the hidden battles individuals face. Show support to loved ones facing hardships. A simple message or call can have significant impact, reminding someone they are thought of.

Following my diagnosis, I began documenting my journey on TikTok, urging others to prioritize their health. I hope to inspire, helping them feel less isolated or more attentive to their body’s signals.

Julika Feix, 18, from Cape Coral, Florida, shares her journey on TikTok (@julika.fx), advocating for awareness of one’s health regardless of age. Contact Newsweek editors on this story: Charlotte Nisbet and Emma Lee-Sang.