Woman Thought She Had a Crick in Her Neck, One Scan Changed Everything

Sarah Esposito, a 26-year-old lash technician and permanent makeup artist from Toms River, New Jersey, developed a lump in her neck and shoulder pain, which she initially attributed to physical strain from her work. Despite her love for her job, she eventually visited a doctor to check the lump. A PET scan revealed cancerous lymph nodes in her neck and chest, as well as a large mass in her mediastinum. Diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma, a form of blood cancer, Esposito was devastated at the age of 26.

Hodgkin lymphoma typically affects individuals in their 20s, 30s, and those over 65, causing symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, fever, fatigue, night sweats, weight loss, and itchy skin. Esposito's oncologist recommended she step away from her career due to the risks associated with chemical exposure, noting the potential link between certain chemicals and cancer.

Esposito made the decision to undergo an egg retrieval procedure to preserve her fertility, as chemotherapy could impact her ability to have children. Six days after the procedure, she began her first round of chemotherapy, which consists of six cycles. Despite the physical and emotional challenges, including exhaustion, bone pain, nausea, and hair loss, Esposito remains grateful for the opportunity to preserve her fertility.