Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma

[Jim Allen]

So this is regarding someone I know who is also living with HIV.

Whilst travelling last week I heard that my very close friend who is very dear to me and who will remain nameless was diagnosed and started treatment for Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma stage 2. Started treatment last week, 1 week chemo 2 weeks off and 6 cycles planned out.

I visited them this morning, after returning from my Reno trip and tried to cheer them up and even got I few similes out of them and a few jokes. Truth is feeling pretty guilty as long story short we had a falling out shortly before this all took place. I know that happens between people from time to time and it has nothing to do with this but still feel like shit, not half as bad as they do of course.

Anyhow here is my ask from anyone reading, I've been trying to read up and catch up like crazy as its been a long time since I read up on lymphoma's and it reassuring a lot of progress has been made.

Normally I don't share the bad shit and I tend to have a cool head when shit happens,but I could really do with someone giving me some insights who has gone through this or understands the topic better than I do.

Jim

[Tonny2]

    ojo.hi Jim, I'm sorry...you are an amazing human being, all I can help you with, is a big bear hug... 

[Ptrk3]

I wish I knew more, Jim, so that I could help you like you have helped so many.

My thoughts are with you and your dear friend.

[CaveyUK]

It's an area I have no knowledge about, but wishing you and your friend all the best Jim

[Jim Allen]

Thanks guys, I appreciate the thoughts.

To be honest I have had about 1 hour of sleep in 3 days and I am now realizing that I am simply way overthinking this. I just need to be supportive and available and that is the best I can do and being strong for someone and supportive is a vital task in itself.

Its also timing, as some of you know I've been supporting my uncle who has been in and out of hospital dealing with a brain tumor over the last few weeks and now this turn of events with my friend just made my mind go into overdrive for a while.

Thanks for listing, I suppose we all need to vent at times.

Jim.   

[bocker3]

Jim,

Sending good thoughts to your friend and to you.  I think you got it right -- all you can do is be there now.  What happened in the past is past -- and what is to come is to come -- but you can control what you do right now.

Remember -- what others may have experienced with any illness is not indicative of what someone else will experience.  All we can do is be the best support we can be.

Now -- go get some rest!!

Hugs,
Mike

[Jackmydin]

Hi Jim,

I Know nothing about this but just wanna say get more rest and hope you and your friend are all well. You gonna need the energy to support your friend and uncle. Take good care buddy.

Jack

[Wade]

Dear Jim,

One thing I've learned over the years is you can't change the past, and friends do have a falling out at times. All you can do is be there for them now and that shows what a really good and caring friend you are.

I think your friend knows that also judging from the smile you got out of them.

Sending you hugs and try and get some rest.

[Jim Allen]

Thanks guys, I appreciate the feedback and thoughts of support.

I suppose everyone needs to hear what they already know from time to time, I'm no exception.

Hugs

Jim