Mantle Cell Lymphoma Treatment in India

Diya Williams, a 58-year-old high school...

Diya Williams, a 58-year-old high school principal and mother of three, had always been the pillar of her family and community. For months, she dismissed her increasing fatigue as stress and her occasional night sweats as menopause. A persistent, painless lump in her neck finally prompted a visit to her GP. Blood work was abnormal, and a biopsy confirmed the shocking diagnosis: Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL). Her oncologist, Dr. Evans, explained that MCL is an aggressive B-cell lymphoma and recommended a treatment plan starting with R-CHOP chemotherapy, followed by consolidation with an autologous stem cell transplant. The chemo was grueling; Diya lost her hair, battled severe nausea, and had to take a leave of absence from work. The stem cell transplant required a month-long hospital stay in isolation, which was emotionally and physically isolating. However, post-transplant, scans showed a complete metabolic response. Two years later, Diya remains in remission. Her emotional journey was a rollercoaster, initial shock and fear for her family, deep despair during treatment, but ultimately a profound gratitude for each day. She now volunteers with a cancer support network, using her experience to guide others.