Ana, Slovenia

In November 2018, when I was 22 years old, I was diagnosed with cancer.
In the weeks before the diagnosis, I started feeling very weak, but I thought it was because of physical work. However, as I noticed a painless swelling lump in my neck, which appeared overnight, I became scared. I contacted my doctor and a needle neck biopsy was performed on me. The result: Hodgkin's lymphoma. Over the next month, I also underwent a CT Scan, bone marrow biopsy, a PET Scan, and egg freezing. I was prescribed 6 cycles, or 12 treatments, of chemo.

The biggest challenge for me was accepting the diagnosis at such a young age. At the same time, it was hard for me to wait for the chemotherapy itself. Once the treatment started, it was easier for me.

Every day I was inspired by my family and my friends. They were my rock and a shoulder to cry on. They gave me power, will, and hope; they prayed for me and for my health, and that meant everything to me. Moreover, I found inspiration in my new friends – patients that I met. With their positive experiences, they calmed me down.

We have a very good healthcare system in Slovenia - they really take good care of the patient, diagnostics and treatment are done quickly and in a coordinated manner. Treatment is covered by the insurance company, so no financial contribution is required.

My advice for everyone who is going through the same thing as I am: trust your oncologist, trust the treatment, trust your family and friends. When you need to cry, cry – otherwise laugh, laughter helps. When it's hard, talk about it, do not keep your fears for yourself. Although now it might be hard, always remember that it will be all right in the end!