Living in a world gripped by a pandemic in 2020 was challenging for everyone. As the year came to an end, we collectively hoped the new year would bring hope and stability. I was looking forward to putting 2020 behind me and embarking on my final year of school. I anticipated the summer holidays with much excitement, as an opportunity to unwind and prepare for the year ahead. I was happy, physically active, fit and healthy. Unfortunately, there were other plans in store for me…

A couple of days prior to Christmas I felt a lump in my neck I hadn’t noticed before. Not thinking it could be threatening, we visited the emergency department to have it checked and bloods taken for precaution. Unbeknownst to me, this visit would be the first of many to hospitals and specialists over the coming months.

After several blood tests, a biopsy and endless body scans, a diagnosis of blood cancer named Hodgkin's Lymphoma was quickly confirmed. My plans for the year ahead screeched to a sudden halt, my whole world had turned upside down in an instant. 

With prompt medical help from an incredible team of doctors, nurses, allied health specialists and others, I am learning how to navigate my new normal together with Year 12 studies. I hope to complete 2021 just as I had envisaged - fulfilled, happy, active and healthy. 

Before my diagnosis, I knew very little about blood cancers. What I have learnt is that blood cancer does not discriminate. It can strike like lightning - at any time with little or no warning signs, just as it has happened to me. 

Hodgkin's Lymphoma is rare with approximately 600 Australians diagnosed each year. This cancer can affect a single lymph node or a group of lymph nodes or another part of the body such as the spleen, liver or bone marrow. Often compared to receiving “a bad lottery ticket”, it is a cancer most common in adolescents and young adults and there is sadly no known cause for the disease. 

I am fundraising in an effort to raise greater awareness for all types of blood cancers (including Leukaemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma) and funds for vital research. The money we raise with your help, will assist in accelerating research for Australian patients and help unlock new treatments for those impacted by blood cancer, including me. 

Thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page and for reading my story. Your generosity to this remarkable charity is greatly appreciated. 

Together we can make an impact and beat blood cancer!!  Jordy xx