Lizzy Desibia, Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, Diagnosed at 35

fatigue | Felt a lump | Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma | noticed a lump

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About Me

I was 35, active, busy, and healthy. Before my cancer diagnosis, my life was full in the best way. I loved skiing in the winter, hiking whenever I could, and spending long summer days at the beach. I work in the event world, where no two days are ever the same. The pace is fast, the pressure is constant, and I thrive on the energy. I was always moving, always juggling, always “fine.”

How This Started

In September 2023, a dry cough showed up.

What I Noticed and Decisions Along the Way

At first, it felt easy to explain away. A seasonal change. A lingering cold. Something minor.
It wasn’t painful or dramatic – just there. And because it didn’t stop me from living my life, I didn’t stop to question it.

By the end of October, I noticed a swollen lymph node in my neck. Around the same time, I started to feel “off.” Not sick exactly – just not myself. I couldn’t put my finger on it.
In early November, I flew to Seattle for a conference. I walked miles every day, kept up with a packed schedule, and did everything I normally do – but I was exhausted in a way that didn’t make sense.

What Happened Next

When I got home, my cough had worsened, and my chest felt heavy. That’s when I finally went to urgent care, convinced I probably had pneumonia.

Why It Was Easy to Wait

I delayed because I didn’t recognize what my body was trying to tell me.

The Moment Things Changed

After listening to my breathing, the provider was concerned I might have a blood clot and sent me straight to the emergency room.

Imaging revealed a large mass in my chest — what they described as “textbook lymphoma.”

I had a biopsy immediately.

Soon after, I was admitted to the hospital in Boston for three weeks and began treatment right away.

I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

What Would Have Helped Sooner

I delayed because I didn’t recognize what my body was trying to tell me.

What I Learned and What I Want Others to Know

Don’t take your body for granted.

Don’t dismiss health changes.

And don’t assume cancer only happens to “other people.”

Get to know your body. Pay attention to subtle changes. And if something doesn’t feel right, speak up, even if you can’t explain why.

Listening earlier can make all the difference.

Call to Action

If something feels off, isn’t going away, or continues to worsen, don’t dismiss it, pay attention to the change and speak up.