DLBCL Journey of Catherine Choo: A story of Hope, Resilience, and Recovery from Lymphoma

Life was humming along beautifully for Catherine Choo.   A successful professional and dedicated mother in her late 40s, she thrived at work and home.  Her days were packed, but she loved the energy and purpose of juggling career and motherhood.  That was until May 2024.

From Breathlessness to Diagnosis: The Early Signs of DLBCL

In March 2024, things suddenly began to change for Catherine.  She felt increasingly breathless, and even her regular asthma medication stopped working.  By May, a low-grade fever crept in—persistent, puzzling, and unsettling.  It wasn’t the flu, but something wasn’t right.  It was as if her body was sounding a quiet alarm. 

A depressed and weak Catherine spent eleven days in the hospital, undergoing numerous tests.  Despite every effort, doctors couldn’t find the cause.  She left the hospital drained and frustrated, still without answers.

But life had other plans. 

Just as she was awaiting her test results, her 15 year old daughter was rushed to the same hospital with acute kidney impairment due to dehydration.  Catherine, unwavering as a devoted mother, stayed by her daughter’s side.

Then came the call. 

The doctor who had monitored her tests, needed to speak with her in person.  Catherine, already in the hospital, was ready to meet immediately.  But the doctor, recognising the seriousness of the conversation ahead, asked for time to prepare.

Getting the News: Understanding DLBCL

The next morning, Catherine and her husband met with her doctor.  The diagnosis was intravascular Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL)—a rare but aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.  It hit her like a truck. But alongside the shock came a strange sense of relief: they finally knew what they were up against. 

Her DLBCL symptoms started subtly but had finally built up into a pattern she couldn’t ignore—persistent breathlessness, unexplained fatigue, and a low-grade fever that wouldn’t go away, all signalling that something more serious was going on beneath the surface.

The emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis hit hard

Diagnosis of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL), is a tough pill to swallow.  Catherine grappled with fears about her life expectancy with heartbreaking thoughts of leaving her husband and children behind and missing out on milestones like their wedding someday.

With the diagnosis came a clear treatment plan

Led by Dr. Lim Ziyi, Senior Consultant in Haematology & Medical Director of CFCH and Dr. Lee Chun Tsu, Senior Consultant Clinical Haematologist, CFCH, who took the time to explain everything explicitly. 

Dr Lee patiently drew diagrams on a sheet of paper detailing the biology of the cancer and the chemotherapy regimen he recommended—R-CHOP.  He also listed each drug and its potential side effects.  It was clear that Catherine wasn’t just a patient—she was part of the decision-making process.  It gave her a sense of control during a terrifying time.

Choosing the Right Treatment: R-CHOP vs Pola-R-CHP in Lymphoma Care

Catherine began the R-CHOP chemotherapy regimen.  However, further investigations revealed that the cancer had spread to her bone marrow.  From her second cycle onward, doctors switched her to a newer treatment: Pola-R-CHP therapy. 

What helps with fatigue during chemo?

Though the first few weeks were gruelling, with severe vomiting, exhaustion, and bone pain, Catherine found that simple routines—like staying hydrated, eating small meals, and resting often—helped with fatigue through chemo—making the third week a brief but welcome reprieve before the next cycle.

Support in cancer

Catherine marvelled at the support system for cancer patients—from the unwavering care of the nursing staff to her family’s constant presence and reassurance —each lifting her through the darkest days.  The nurses and medical community were kind, skilled, and endlessly compassionate. Dr. Lee’s approach embodied true personalized cancer care.  His dedication exceeded expectations; he even shared his mobile number so Catherine could reach out anytime.  That kind of personal attention made all the difference.

Facing Chemotherapy: Side Effects, Support, and Staying Strong

Catherine will never forget some moments.  One was when she shaved her head before the chemo could take her hair.  It was her way of owning the moment.  Even the small, painful battles—like nurses struggling to find a vein—didn’t break her spirit.  Her doctors encouraged her to start light exercise during her recovery weeks, helping her rebuild both body and mind.

Access to advanced therapies and dedicated specialists has greatly improved outcomes for patients diagnosed with lymphoma in Singapore.  With early detection, personalised care, and targeted therapies, the hope of a lymphoma cure and long-term remission is promising.

Life After DLBCL: Recovery, Hope, and Advice for Others

Now in remission for over 8 months and on the path to cure, Catherine’s cancer survivor journey offers hope and is a testament to her courage and clarity.  Focused on recovering from cancer, she reflects on her journey with gratitude and continues to rebuild her life—sharing a powerful message with others diagnosed with DLBCL or any form of cancer. 

‘Trust your doctors, trust the system—and most of all, don’t give up.’

Her story is a testament to resilience, the power of early diagnosis, and the evolving promise of personalised cancer treatment.  Even in the most uncertain times, Catherine found faith, reminding us there is always hope after lymphoma chemotherapy.

​​Lymphoma treatment has come a long way, with new therapies offering better outcomes and fewer side effects.  People ask, ‘Is lymphoma curable?’ While it depends on the type and stage, early diagnosis and the right treatment plan can lead to long-term remission or even a cure in many cases.

Do you know someone facing DLBCL or another form of lymphoma diagnosis?  

You’re not alone.  Trust your doctor and care team, stay strong, and know that recovery is possible.  Share Catherine’s story of strength and help spread hope.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL)?

DLBCL is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).  It’s an aggressive cancer that starts in white blood cells (B lymphocytes) and typically grows rapidly.  With timely diagnosis and treatment, many patients respond well and achieve remission.

2. How is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma different from Hodgkin Lymphoma?

The main difference lies in the type of abnormal cells present.  Hodgkin lymphoma contains Reed-Sternberg cells, while non-Hodgkin lymphoma, including DLBCL, does not.  Non-Hodgkin lymphoma also has many subtypes and often behaves more aggressively.

3. What is R-CHOP chemotherapy regimen, and how does it treat lymphoma?

R-CHOP is a combination chemotherapy regimen used to treat DLBCL.  It includes Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Vincristine, and Prednisone.  This powerful mix works by killing fast-growing cancer cells and is typically given in cycles.

4. What is Pola-R-CHP, and how is it different from R-CHOP?

Pola-R-CHP is a newer first-line treatment for DLBCL that replaces Vincristine in R-CHOP with Polatuzumab vedotin, a targeted drug.  Pola-R-CHP has shown better results in keeping the cancer from returning and helping patients stay well longer.  For many people newly diagnosed with DLBCL, this is now considered a more effective first treatment option.

5. Can DLBCL be cured, and what is the long-term outlook?

Yes, DLBCL is considered potentially curable, especially when diagnosed early and treated aggressively.  Many patients achieve long-term remission after chemotherapy.  Follow-up care and regular monitoring are essential for managing risks of recurrence.