Posted on by rdlankes

Beyond the Bullet Points: Irony and Lymphoma

Today I start chemotherapy. I realize for those who follow this blog that statement might come as a shock, it certainly does me. A few weeks ago I wrote about how I was in good health following seizures and illness in the fall. Perhaps the post was tempting fate.

Last week I was admitted to the hospital with a very low platelet count and in the process of finding out why the doctors discovered enlarged lymph nodes. The biopsy confirmed Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, also known simply as Hodgkin’s disease, a cancer of the blood. In essence my immune system was attacking my blood.

I would say this isn’t as bad as it sounds, but it actually is precisely as bad as it sounds. I can’t leave the hospital until my platelet count grows, and that will only happen by attacking the cancer, and my immune system at the same time. The good news is that a bone marrow biopsy came back clean. The other good thing is that unlike other cancers you may have heard of, enlarged lymph nodes are where this cancer starts, so it doesn’t indicate spread.

I have few answers for you (and since most readers of this blog are librarians I’m sure you’re all on PubMed now anyway). The good news is that at my age (finally something to make we feel young) there are excellent treatments and projected outcomes.

The big effect of my illness is that with a compromised immune system, and courses of chemo I will once again need to cut out travel. I don’t know how the treatments will affect me, but as always I have webcams and video conferencing to continue to spread the message of how librarians are radical positive change agents, and how communities are our collections.

I will certainly take prayers and good wishes, but this is no time for sympathy. I feel good. I have an amazing family, colleagues, and network of friends. I will beat this.

86 Replies to “Beyond the Bullet Points: Irony and Lymphoma”

  6. Hey, Dave–isn’t the Upstate tag line something like “Knowing Changes Everything”? (I could look that up, of course, but won’t.) I’m in your corner, definitely, cheering you on as you beat this.

  7. You are such a strong person and great librarian. I know your courage will get you through this
    difficult time . Get well. Feel Better. Sending healing wishes for a cancer free and healthy in mind, body, and spirit.

  8. Sorry to hear about your illness, but I am hoping the treatment goes well and that you have a successful recovery. Looking forward to hearing much more from you in the future.

  11. David — Unfortunately, I’ve had too many friends go down this chemotherapy path (probably a sign of my age more than anything else). It’s definitely a tough slog. The good news is that most have, as I’m hoping and praying for you, beat the cancer. Part of what all those friends said to me after getting that good news, was the strength they derived from their family and friends during the process and how, while they were sometimes reluctant to tap into that, when they did, the return on that investment so helped them to pull through some tough, dark days. So, please, I’m sure many will agree, don’t hesitate to let us know how you’re doing, good or bad days, and let us provide that support. While I know you’re important to your family and colleagues, your also very important to this network of friends on FB and throughout librarianship. I’m wishing you the very best in the days ahead and looking forward to your continued contributions on all fronts.

  12. Yes, you will, Dave. Best wishes from all of your “distance members” in Workshop INF 1005 at the iSchool, University of Toronto, whom you have informed, engaged, and inspired, through your book, your articles, and those fantastic videos. Card from us is in the snail mail.

  18. Dave, I have every confidence that your positive energy and general awesome life force will serve you well during this new challenge. Best to you and your family! You don’t let limited thinking and stagnation stand for very long in the profession – we know you’re going to give this illness hell! ~Julie

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  29. Dave you are an incredible inspiration for me as a librarian and a human being. Though I have never met you, the passion which you bring to life and the profession is amazing and an example to all of us. Standing guard at your side through this: wishing you strength and healing. Thank you for trusting us enough to share so publicly

  33. Dave – I know you will beat this and I am sure your presence in the hospital will liven up the place. Let us know how any of us can help!

  36. @rdlankes You’re one of the strongest & most inspiring champions I’ve met and I KNOW you’ll beat this! Your iSchool & library-world family is behind you all the way!

  38. Dave,

    Please know you have a School and a University – as well as a global virtual village, complete with an infinite library community, all pulling for you.

    If there’s anything anyone can do to help you and your family in any way – we got your back.

  39. Dave, You have an amazing determination to accomplish whatever you go after, so I know you will conquer this. I’ll keep praying and please let me know if there is anything I can do for you or your family. Joan(ie)

  40. Dave, your 511 class is what made me think being a librarian is one of the coolest professions in the world and I really can make a difference. Your positive energy and 100% positive mental attitude will do wonderful things for you as you battle this disease and come out on top! Sending love and best wishes!

  42. Great to hear that “at my age (finally something to make we feel young) there are excellent treatments and projected outcomes.” Fighting!

  43. Dave –

    Blast from the past. I was randomly browsing ischool.syr.edu, clicked through to your blog, only to find this. This all-star ex student is sending you positive vibes from Boston. Be well!

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