My name is Marianna Salvatori, and I was diagnosed with stage 2A Hodgkin's Lymphoma in August of 2020. I have been in remission for 6 months now. I am 23 years old from Baltimore, MD. I graduated from Stanford University in June of 2021 and am moving to Denver, Colorado in the fall to work as an analyst at a healthcare company called DaVita Kidney Care.
What is your cancer diagnosis and how was it discovered?
I was diagnosed with stage 2A Hodgkin's Lymphoma in August of 2020. Weeks prior to my official diagnosis, I woke up in the morning and discovered a large lump on my neck. I underwent blood tests and biopsies to finally discover that the mass in my neck was Lymphoma.
What is the biggest piece of advice you have for newly diagnosed patients?
For newly diagnosed patients, it is so important to talk to someone who has gone through what you are going through. Support from the cancer community was life changing for my journey and my mental health throughout my journey.
What is the most important thing you learned from your cancer experience?
Life is so precious. Do things that make you happy and don't stress about the things that do not matter. Give back to your community and be grateful for every single day.
What was the most difficult aspect of organizing your care/community?
Many of my peers wanted to help me, but they did not know how. Despite good intentions, some of the support I received was counterproductive and did not land well with my family and me.
Are there products, services, experiences or physicians that you couldn't be without? Tell us more!
I am in a group chat of 30 young women in my age group with lymphoma. This group was so helpful, we talk in the chat every single day. Also, the nausea medications I used were very helpful. Medical marijuana was the most helpful for reducing my symptoms.
Interested in connecting with Marianna?
Email: marianna.salvatori826@gmail.com
Instagram: @Mgsalvatori
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