Patients like Mika spend years hoping for breakthroughs and novel treatments to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life.
Make a difference by supporting research that can help improve the lives of lymphoma patients nationwide
Persistent cough, shortness of breath, intermittent fevers, itching and extreme fatigue were just some of the symptoms that Mika Midolo was experiencing before her diagnosis with Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma on Friday May 28, 2021.
Mika, a former Breakfast television, on-air news personality, recounts the moment she was told she had cancer “They put me in a private room and I waited for an oncologist to come to talk to me to confirm that I had cancer and that it was wide spread – I was beyond terrified and lonely and upset.”
It is estimated that every 37 minutes, someone is diagnosed with lymphoma in Canada. There are over 100,000 Canadians, like Mika, currently living with lymphoma in various stages of their journey. That’s why advancements in research that reveal new information about lymphoma, diagnostics and innovative treatment therapies are crucial as is an organization that can help patients navigate their diagnosis.
Mika was introduced to Lymphoma Canada by her dear friend. “I called Lymphoma Canada, and I spoke with a wonderfully supportive person, who gave me a list of webinars that I can join, informational materials about my cancer and details on how I can advocate for myself. She also provided me with questions to ask my oncologist that I didn’t think about.” said Mika.
Lymphoma Canada is the only organization in Canada focused entirely on supporting lymphoma patients and the lymphoma community. Every year, Lymphoma Canada helps thousands of individuals navigate their lymphoma journeys.
We count on your support and generosity to continue making a difference in the lives of those, like Mika, affected by lymphoma, and to expand our reach by offering hope, healing, and support when it’s needed most.
The way Mika has tackled her journey with Diffuse Large B-cell lymphoma has been inspiring. Her resilience and courage and that of other lymphoma patients fuels Lymphoma Canada to keep supporting this community in whichever way we can.
Mika was diagnosed during a global pandemic, which meant she navigated on her own, a maze of medical appointments and tests, while she searched for answers. At first, Mika thought she might have COVID and took multiple COVID-19 tests, but they all came back negative. She even sought help from a physiotherapist, but nothing was providing relief to the symptoms she was experiencing. Her condition continued to worsen, eventually leading her to seek urgent medical attention in May of 2021.
A series of tests revealed the shocking reality – she had lymphoma, and it was more widespread than initially thought, affecting her chest, liver, kidneys, and neck. The journey ahead was daunting, marked by exhausting rounds of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The treatments had a profound impact on Mika’s body, leaving her physically and emotionally drained.
Through it all, Mika found support from Lymphoma Canada. Alongside the support of her family and friends, Lymphoma Canada was a lifeline during a scary and uncertain time. The free-to-attend webinars, and educational resources, and supportive community became her guiding light, offering valuable insights, practical advice, and a sense of belonging during her darkest days.
“I don’t know where I would have been without the help of Lymphoma Canada. It was amazing, there are a lot of groups that are generalized, but Lymphoma Canada was able to pinpoint my concerns and help bring clarity to my cancer. I still rely on the webinars that Lymphoma Canada hosts. “- Mika Midolo.
Starting life again after cancer treatment was scary for Mika. She worried her cancer might return, also feared what might happen next, and the thought of getting sick and leaving her children terrified her.
“I am hoping that lymphoma research can find an easier and more tolerable cure for lymphoma with fewer side effects.” Mika Midolo.
We invite you to contribute to funding well-defined lymphoma research that improves the lives of patients like Mika and provides hope, allowing them to envision a life unlimited by lymphoma.
Today, with the support of her husband, children, parents, and great friends, Mika stands as a symbol of hope and resilience, inspiring others with her unwavering determination to rebuild her life post-treatment. Now, she concentrates on things she loves, dedicates her time and effort to helping others who have cancer in every possible way, teaching Pilates and cherishing moments with her family. Mika’s life has taken on a new purpose and meaning.
Her journey is a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of community support and the importance of raising awareness about lymphoma. We ask that you support Lymphoma Canada by donating towards research. Research that could lead to new treatments and provide hope for patients like Mika. Every gift counts and truly makes a difference.
Mika came to Lymphoma Canada, as a patient in need of help. We thank her for her profound act of trust in what we do.
Help us as we support other lymphoma patients and their families through their diagnoses. Your ongoing support is crucial, empowering us to fund vital research, offer essential resources, and advocate for improved access to lymphoma treatment.
I humbly come to you and ask for your help. Will you consider becoming a champion alongside us providing support to lymphoma patients like Mika?
Your gift makes a serious difference! Great and ever improving support provided by Lymphoma Canada is no accident. It is critically dependent on the generous heart of donors.
Share Mika’s story with your friends and family.
