Good to see you smile while vlogging through loopy brain, malaise, headache, sleepiness, and the anxiety of self-monitoring for the ugliest side effects, Lots of NOT FUN. A big fist bump to you, Hank.
@@fx-studio WTAF are you talking about? She had SEPSIS as a result of a severe bacterial infection, which has nothing to do with any vaccine. Not you being an anti-science covidiot in a science educator's comments section... 🙄
Hey! Radiation therapist here!! The consensus among the people I treat is that radiation is better than chemo.I hope your treatments go smoothly and I’m sending all the good vibes!!
I got radiation over the course of the month as a kid. I don’t remember it being particularly terrible. I got hit with nausea, but I dealt with that all the time anyway, and that’s what zophran is for.
My dad had radiation therapy for his cancer when I was a kid. I remember it taking the piss out of him and him sleeping a lot at that time. That being said, I have to imagine chemo is much worse. No personal experience myself though. I wouldn't wish any of it on anyone, but I'm glad Hank seems to be tolerating it as well as he can. Keeping him and the family in my thoughts. ❤
Hard agree! Radiation was vacation compared to chemo. Big tip for radiation though, speak up if you aren't comfortable during your simulation. You'll be like that for the rest of your treatment.
Sunflower, except for the burns. I had radiation from 1cm below my bottom lip to just below my diaphragm after six months of MOPP/ABVD chemo. I got bad cases of hiccups around a dozen times a day from about the fourth day of radiation until a few months after it was done. I had to constantly chew gum after the first week because it made my salivary glands quit working and that lasted years. But when I went back to high school I was the only one allowed to chew gum because of the notes from my radiologist and oncologist, lol. But after day four it hurt so bad to swallow even room temperature water. They had me stay on the peds ward for the month I had radiation and I lost weight faster because it was so painful to swallow anything and I told them that it felt like a sunburn, and my skin in the radiation area was considerably redder than the rest of my skin, but it felt like the sunburn was inside me too. They said it was because the radiation has to go all the way through and the burn doesn't just stop at the skin. I also lost my sense of smell for a little over twenty years, but that wasn't so bad. But you are right because if I just pick one out of the eight chemo drugs they gave me, the nitrogen mustard, and I had to choose between that and radiation I would definitely go with the radiation. But with all the long term effects from that chemo and radiation combined and all the surgeries and pain my body has been put through over the years and now that my once defeated Hodgkin's has come back after thirty years and brought along a few more cancers for backup I have kept fighting for all these extra years I was given, but I have to draw the line somewhere. So I've said no more chemo, no more radiation, no more surgeries. I'm on hospice now and for the first time in many many years I'm out of pain and am enjoying the time I have left. I hope you feel pride everyday for what you do, you literally are saving lives day by day and putting so much good out into the world not only by saving those in your care. But when those saved people do good things it's because you and the rest of their care team kept them alive to be able to do those good deeds. And my original cancer was Nodular Sclerosing Hodgkin's Lymphoma stage 4b so my radiation was maybe stronger than most people get and that's why I had a rough time with it. Plus it was also at an old military hospital since I was a military brat. I hope you have a sunshiny life Sunflower, you deserve it!
My dad was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 1995. They gave him 5 years. I took him to chemo a few times a week. Made sure after we left the treatment that I got some food in him, as chemo kills your appetite. Sadly, he passed away in 2008. My outlook is that he still beat cancer. They told him 5 years and he went 13. He got to see me get married. He got to see his granddaughter born. Hank, you're already on your way to getting through this. You'll beat it. Get to see and experience tons more, and hopefully still be breaking down all things science to your followers for years to come. Love you man!
Thanks for sharing. This is my goal. I have weekly chemo and my prognosis is 2 years. But I want to see my daughters settled and living their best life before I go anywhere so I’m aiming for 10.
My mom saw all my kids born and that means so much to me. She passed away due to heart failure (stemming from mitral valve prolapse). Miss her like crazy but I'm so grateful she got to see me, just frankly, find happiness.
He fought his hardest and that matters. I gotta question the way we frame cancer - nobody says "he beat a heart attack" or "she lost to a car crash", it's only cancer that has this weird victim-blamey win-lose thing going on. Cancer killed my mum in a few months, does that mean I also have to call her a loser now she's dead?? What if someone is grieving and gets cancer and lets it take them? Are they a loser? Fighting for what you care about is admirable but we need to take this value judgement out of the whole process. Cancer is hard enough as it is.
Hi! Med student here. Please don't say you're "being lazy", you're SURVIVING. This shit is hard af and I know of all people I don't need to tell you that, but please have grace and mercy on yourself. The fact you're still producing videos at all is incredible and I hope you are celebrating your perseverance and strength through this!
Hank's personality, part of who he is, is an overachiever. He has stated that despite realizing how problematic it is he measures his self worth by how many things he does. I know that he knows surviving is work but he doesn't FEEL that way, I think you know that based on your comment. I think it is important to remind him that he is doing work by surviving and going above and beyond by making videos, but I don't know that telling him not to say things helps. I'm not him, I can't know how he'll hear it, but I know I would feel like that part of my experience is being belittled. So please, keep encouraging him, I will be too, but maybe try not to tell him how to feel.
I think he's joking with the word lazy, but I agree. He's used to being the CEO of multiple companies and doing all the other work he does. Stopping being so active so suddenly must be hard. In a similar situation, my partner recently got a clot in her arm and has had to be off work for the last 2 months, she shouldn't be using a computer or lifting heavy objects, etc, but she's finding it hard to stop and just recover as she's supposed to and she feels "lazy" not doing her usual things. Life makes it hard to just come to a complete stop when you have some momentum.
@@kayakMike1000 Thank you for sharing your perspective, but I believe it's important to approach the world with empathy and understanding. Many people, including myself and other members of the elite baldness club, find comfort in expressing solidarity and support for Hank during this challenging time. Let's focus on encouraging those who are struggling with anything, even if they are otherwise successful and happy, and sending positive thoughts. We can all make a difference by showing kindness and compassion. Life can be challenging for all of us at times. If you're going through something that is giving you a negative perspective, I hope you triumph over it.
Congrats on finishing chemo! As a Hodgkin’s survivor myself, I wanted to give you a few thoughts about what’s to come (or may/may not come, as everyone is different): 1. Scan anxiety sucks. Every single one of my cancer friends is convinced in the days leading up to a scan that the cancer is back, even years out of treatment with no sign of relapse. So if scans start freaking with your mind, just know that it’s normal, and that you are not alone. 2. Radiation can cause fatigue that’s even worse than from the ABVD. Be prepared to take naps when necessary. 3. It can take a long time for your body to get back to its new normal. I remember being so frustrated months after treatment that I didn’t have the energy level I used to. But it did get better. So try to be kind to yourself if it takes longer than you expect. 4. You’ve got this! You’ve made it through the worst, so hang in there for this last bit!
For sure, my spouse is 25 years out from Hodgkin's treated with ABVD then too. I very much remember the scan anxiety. It was overwhelming with the "certainty" (really fear) that the cancer returns. There was also anxiety and a feeling of vulnerability when you're not regularly visiting a doctor. Fatigue from radiation was also a big deal.
You are doing great! Just take this time to rest. I’m two years post chemo/ radiation . Radiation only made me a little tired for a day or two. It sounds like you are researching too much. Knowledge is not always power, sometimes ignorance is bliss. I didn’t want to know much about my cancer or the possible side effects or outcomes because I didn’t want to scare myself about what might not happen. I just wanted to deal with what I needed to as I needed to. No sense worrying about what might happen. Take care of yourself and rest.
I had a rare pediatric renal cancer in 1975. I am on one of the longest cancer research studies in the U.S. the late effects have been very difficult. How treatment has changed over the decades, making the protocol less brutal and how people are responding in such a positive way to you lifts my heart. It's a long journey, find the magic. ❤
@@erikak8187 I'm pretty sure you were not replying to me however, I am in a unique position to answer that question. I had wilms both when I was 7 and 11 and again at 31 (which is almost unheard of). I'm now 39. I received similar treatments between them. I was taking mostly the same medicine and in general the equipment used was the same. The equipment seemed to be a few new generations The anti-nausea medication has improved significantly. The actually treatment was more aggressive as an adult so it's hard to make a comparison but I'm my case each time the course was cut short due to the worsening of the side effects.
I did 6 months of chemo. The accumulation effects were very real and it was hardest at the end. I wish you the best on your treatments and look forward to you all healed up.
My great aunt had been diagnosed with Ovarian cancer years ago, went through chemo, beat cancer. Then the cancer came back a few years later. She went through chemo for a while, and after 3 years it had worn her body out. She eventually stopped doing chemo and she passed away a few weeks ago. I honestly have no resolution to make from this, I just felt like this was a safe space for me to share. Losing my Aunt Joann has been one of the most heartbreaking things I've gone through. I miss her so much.
I'm sorry for your loss. Truly. I think I'm going to share something too. My sister had thyroid cancer a few years ago, but luckily they could just take the organ away and with some treatment it never came back. But those were some tough months for her and everyone around. Cancer took away a family friend 3 years ago, she was there one moment, ok, and suddenly she was diagnosed, and passed away a month later. Lung cancer made my grandmother's last years of her life way harder and took away a lot of her quality of life. It was really painful seeing the effects. My uncle was under treatment for lung cancer for more than 3 years but finally passed away 1 year and a half ago. I saw him deteriorating and I don't think I'll ever forget that. I'm still processing all that grief, and I'm not even the one who was the closest to them, although I loved them dearly. Cancer sucks. I needed to say that.
Hank I'm 78 and have stage 4 colon cancer. Get chemo every 2 weeks and don't function for 1 week after. I talk to God alot and no mater how i feel i get up and do some sort of exercise . You can do it. I know you can and it helps a lot. My sessions last 4 to 6 hours and it's the 3 day's later that hurts but your mind can overcome most of the pain. You will be fine and my family will pray for you.❤
Hello, Hank. My brother’s wife was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid leukemia shortly after you shared your discovery with us. She is undergoing a six-week intense chemo treatment, and only a few family members can visit her before treatments. She seemed to be responding well, so everyone was rooting for her. I am also rooting for you.
I went through treatment for AML last year, at 25, and am on the other side post transplant. Please let me know if you or your family would benefit from talking with someone who's been where she is.
AML sucks. I was diagnosed at the beginning of last year. Two transplants later my treatment is complete now. Relapse is always a possibility but hoping for the best.
@@benq3009 In my experience, no, not always, especially on the internet, there's also the lack of non-verbal/written communication which means that their actual meaning could be lost or obscured by only being as partial message. For example, your question could well have been rhetorical but it's hard for me to know your intent without asking.
Cancer survivor here. When you said about people coming out of cancer treatment with lifelong disability, know that, for almost every survivor, one's body is permanently changed from cancer + treatment. It doesn't manifest as what would be recognized as a disability for some, but your body will recover in a different way from how you remember your body before. That's totes okay - it's how life works. But it's good to know that you're permanently in the "during/after cancer" part of your body now. Wishing you the best, Hank. 💚💚
Hello Hank, I'm sorry you're going through this. My eldest son was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma on his 14th birthday - He went through chemo and recovered - he then relapsed 1 year later and had to go through chemo and radiation again (fortunately, because he was older, he was able to do his radiation at to local General Hospital (our local Pediatric Hospital didn't have the ability at the time todo radiation treatment and we would have had to relocate 6 hours away otherwise). He fully recovered, but affectively lost two years of his youth (he never learned to drive at 16 like most children etc) - and he suffers crazy complications to this day from the treatments - not limited to the radiation destroyed his teeth. He's been seeing dental specialists helping rebuild the cracks and chipped up edges. And, currently at age 25, just this week he will be getting implants to replace every tooth on the upper right side because they weren't able to save them. But I'm grateful he's here. While at the children's hospital, I unfortunately watched to many families who children did not survive there cancers. I'm grateful to you for sharing your journey, though want to stress you owe no one anything. Your only job(s) right now, are to take care of yourself, and hug your family as much as you're able. Cheers to you
@@IdolMako I'm almost 40 and I still haven't learned, nor do I have any desire. That aside, that's what a lot of people miss about surviving cancer. You still do often suffer long term side effects, maybe even life long. But, there's something about surviving something like cancer that makes you appreciate life even more.
Hank Green: my brain isn't working Also Hank Green: records an an amazingly coherent and well structured impromptu vlog about his experiences, thoughts and feelings, education about cancer treatment, and plans for the future
@@chewbakkah7144 Stroke brain is like that, too. I can have deep discussions about obscure philosophical topics, then all of a sudden I can't produce Mandy Patinkin's name. Just, full-stop, brain no brain.
The thing is, when you are super bright, you can take a big hit to your mental functioning and still come across to others as very articulate. But internally, you very much notice, and it is really upsetting.
@@saraholson5946 it's incredibly upsetting. You know you know it. It's not like you can't remember. You know the file exists. It's there. You're reading it. But the one bit you need is sitting there, right in front of you, but instead of being the info you want, it's a smudge that you can't, in the moment, read. You read it five minutes ago. You'll read it again tomorrow. But just then? Eff you in particular.
@@drunkenfarmerjohn42give yourself time, things may improve. Even adult human brains are more 'plastic' than it was once thought. Just, look after yourself well physically. Food, sleep etc. Brain and body work as one single, complex, unit. One easily affecting the other. A simple drop in blood sugar can have a marked effect even those of us who have no real health problems when it comes to things like memory(cognitive function).
My brother passed at 19 years old in 2021 after just a few months of being diagnosed with Ewings Sarcoma. I truly miss him. I don't even know what to type, but your videos have brought me to tears and I just wanted to mention him. You and anyone going through this is a true fighter. I wish you the best.
I’m truly sorry. It’s so hard to accept the sudden loss of a young healthy person, not that it’s ever easy. (Still, maybe not ideal to share this with someone who’s still going through treatment and hoping for best results, even though Hank is a sharing and loving person)
Hank, I think it is really important to be mindful of the words you use, and how they will affect you psychologically. You are NOT lazy. You are sick. You are feeling fatigue. Remember all the things your body is doing trying to heal itself. You arent lazy, in fact, your body is working harder than the average person. Im glad chemo is finally over, i have been told, it really is the hardest part of everything. Take care of yourself. I know its hard as hell.
I've been in remission for 19 years and I have a check up appointment next week. I still get anxious every time that there will be unexpected news. You sharing this journey with us has been comforting and less lonely. Thank you, and 'Hank' in there 😁❤
The fatigue and brain fog is no joke. Life is just harder when you don't feel well. It's nice to see you up and talking! Thanks for the update, be well.
As someone with anxiety, I can't imagine how nerve wracking going through this would be. The fear of every ache and fever and headache possibly meaning something serious, in addition to the toll just feeling physically awful takes on your emotions, and the loss of brain focus to be able rationalize those emotions... Thank you for your vulnerability in showing that fighting cancer is HARD. There's a desire that a lot of people have to only show the positive, to put on a brave face so as to inspire others who are going through similar things... But I don't believe that really helps, because it makes people who CAN'T put on a brave face, who can't be positive, who struggle with the fear and depression and the emotional toll that the physical SUCK of the whole situation creates, feel like they are not strong enough, that they are failing, or that they are closer to being beaten by the disease. You are showing the truth: is hard, it sucks, and maybe you can find some positive moments where it sucks less, but it still sucks to have to go through it! And you aren't being "lazy"; you could lay in bed 24/7 for months and you would still not be lazy, because every moment, you are battling this disease, you are surviving!
Yes to everything you said. Chronic disease sucks. Fatigue sucks. Anxiety and depression sucks. Mixing those really sucks. Sometimes persisting is enough. Just making it through today is enough. I had a stretch of life about 3 years long where a few of those things created a bit of a perfect storm for suckiness, and making it through felt simultaneously impossibly difficult and also incredibly insufficient. But it was enough. I'm better now than I was then, I'm better now than I thought even possible during those three years. Not perfect, not outstanding, but I am here today. I persisted, and I am here. That's pretty damn impressive.
In my breast cancer treatment, I lost my hair and I allowed only 2 people to see it. I found it was a big part of my identity, and I needed hair. My mom gave me three of her wigs, and I was relieved. She even said I looked sexier in them than she did! 😊 I did go visit my best friend. In the kitchen, when everybody else was in the living room, my friends daughter, a fashion-plate in her own right, gushed about how good my hair looked, and I smiled. Then I pulled my wig off and she was shocked and giggled. So did I. But I showed only her and my Brother in law (who ran errands for me and told me stories about a fellow Navy seaman who had alopecia.) He said the alopecia guy was a big man, and when somebody called him a baby, he punched the guy to knock down 2 bunk beds. Nobody called him baby after that. My BIL was great like that. Also my brother in law would get me a big meat-filled hamburger and smoothie and fries every time he got me groceries. And he'd make sure I ate it all. He and my sister were very protective of me and wanted to make sure I was healthy.
Thank you for that. For writing that. I think that could apply for so many people whk are going through other chronic diseases, too. I especially struggle with the part about putting on a brave face when what I really feel is terrible. Because the brave face is expected. People don't want to see less. And so we pretend to be alright. But then that gives the impression that we are alright. When, if they saw us 24/7 they would know that we are not. I'm guessing that most of the people who will read this will understand.
@@phillyphakename1255 I'm really proud of you for persisting and making it through. I know how hard that it. It's only been a handful of years now that I've been glad that I'm alive. That doesn't mean that I feel good, as I'm sure many of us could say. But we're here. We're alive. And we're doing better than we thought we could. I say as I sit in front of my new cane. But what I meant to say is, go you! You're here. And I'm proud of you.
@@anyascelticcreations Indeed! Cancer treatment isn't a once-and-done thing, even if you never get treated a second time! It affects other organs including the brain. People experience brain fog for a significant length of time afterwards. People experience weakness and quite a bit of fragility. I've known some cancer survivors who were quite skinny, and that's not all because of having worked out and gotten athletic. There are many breast cancer survivors who paddle and compete in dragon boat races (like me!) who are at any point in their treatment. Some post treatment like me, and others who are going through it. A number of people get kinkier hair. One I met had very tightly-curled hair after treatment. I had Adriamycin and Cytoxan (A/C), which is a very strong chemo, and I lost my hair. Then one morning several weeks after chemo, I woke up with my ears being tickled. I hate that! I brushed my hair aside then became surprised! "I have hair!" I yelled. Things come back slowly. Be patient.
Hank the “thing you’re supposed to be doing” is recovery from chemo and prepping mentally and physically as best as you can for radiation As you said at the beginning “cancer treatment is your job now”, that doesn’t change just because you’re on a new stage of treatment DFTBA
I'm glad you have your kitty friend to help you through this journey, along with all the human support. Feline therapy is the best. We're all rooting for you, and congrats on finishing chemo.
This man is a hero to a lot of people. You already have a legacy that will live on for the next century. Not many people can leave the kind of impact that Hank Green will leave on our world. I wish you and your family the best.
I really appreciate you showing everyone what it’s like on a “bad cancer treatment” day. Sometimes we can be more energetic and act like our old selves for hours at a time. Other days, we don’t eat because getting up and microwaving a can of soup is too exhausting. I’m so glad you have a support system to help you on those days. Virtual hug from the Uniboober. 😁
Yall they probably meant a can worth of soup that they put in a dish to microwave, why are you so hung up on that part as opposed to the rest of the comment 😭
You're NOT lazy. Lazy would be being healthy and just...not doing stuff (especially stuff you should be.) You're working to get healthy. That's f'ing hard work. Sucks that it's so hard, definitely more than I can imagine. As always, thank you for sharing something so personal. ❤
Lol I like that this vlog ended with "that's my cat, I'm gonna lie down now". Congrats on getting through the chemo portion! And thanks for the update, it's always wonderful to hear from you :D
Hank, you’re incredibly brave. I’m going through the work up of what keeps becoming more of a reality that I may have lymphoma. Biopsy is next. The 24/7 anxiety this has given me is debilitating. I couldn’t imagine making it through what you have with a smile on my face still. Thank you for giving people going through the diagnosis phase a little hope that it won’t be so bad if it is this. You’re appreciated. Also I’ve watched you since 2012, and it feels like we’re friends. You don’t know me, but thank you for everything. Your highs and lows have been motivational for more people than you know.
Raise your hand if you've got scan anxiety right now. Waiting is hard. That's where I'm at in my cancer "journey." I gotta wait a few weeks. I understand the all-consuming tired, and I don't wish it on anyone. Remember to get some fresh air (if you can) because it's surprisingly refreshing sometimes. Also, sleep is when your body repairs itself; don't fight it. Allow yourself the all the naps you can handle!! Best wishes!!
Cripes I’m anxious when I get regular bloodwork and I’m an official wreck weeks before and day of mammogram/ultrasound and then of course, waiting. I wish you comfort and wellbeing and strength. Bless you dear💜
I can truly empathize with you! I recently (Jan '22) finished up chemo. I had rectal cancer, and it was a real pain in the ass. I went through 6 weeks of chemo via pump and radiation in tandem, followed by 5 cycles of chemo infusions in clinic and 2 days of chemo via a pump. It was not a great time. I think the worst part of the treatment was the steroids and some injection to boost my WBC. Then, I had an ileostomy for a few months after they removed the tumor and finally a reversal surgery to reconnect my plumbing. I think it's safe to say that it was the most traumatic event of my life (so far), and I'm now in therapy. No one told me that I wouldn't be over the moon with joy once I beat cancer. I felt so hollow. But finally, I'm starting to feel like myself again! You'll be on the other side of this whole ordeal before you know it, and then you can really begin to heal ❤
Statistically, a number of us will eventually develop cancer and have to go through chemo. Thank you for documenting and sharing your journey with us. Understanding what one is about to go through and hearing about it from someone who has been there can help a lot. You didn't have to do things this way and it can't be easy to video and share while going through treatment. Know that it means a lot to those who will have to face this one day. Thank you.
My family has a toddler who’s non-verbal going through chemo right now. Listening to you talk about it and how you feel is very good insight. I know it’s all different, but it helps.
I work at a cancer center and talk to patients about their lives and their symptoms every day, but sometimes I feel like there's limits to how well I can understand what our patients go through -- I can't go home with them and see what living on chemo is really like, and I can't fully share the burden with them even if I want to. Seeing you posting these genuine, intimate moments helps me to keep my passion for what we do. Thanks for what you do, Hank! Dftba, and drink some protein shakes for me!
Thank you for all that you do for cancer patients. It rocked me to my core when I went through my own diagnosis 23 years ago. I don’t actually remember a lot of things that happened in life during my treatment, but I remember every caregiver that was kind and compassionate when I needed it most. It takes a special person to keep being there for people in crisis day after day. You are SO appreciated! ❤
I feel so bad hearing you talk about the symptoms, especially the mental ones. It resonates with me personally bc I had a traumatic brain inury, so I spent months like that. Just so constantly sleepy, awake at odd hours, confused, unable to process things or retain info, dizzy, anxious, awful headaches, frequently hot and cold, and nauseated. It just sucked. I'm really glad your close to the end of your chemo. I hope you continue to do well and recover quickly. ❤️
I'm a PhD student in a lung research lab and I just wanted to share this story about Bleomycin that Hank might know but someone might find it interesting, here it is. After it was found that the chemotherapeutic drug Bleomycin can cause scarring of the lungs, doctors of course started monitoring patients who took it as part of their cancer treatments just like Hank talked about. However, here is the interesting part. We study idiopathic lung fibrosis (IPF) in our lab, which is a disease of an unknown origin that causes scarring of the lung. Now, If a scientist is trying to study a disease of no known cause in an animal model, how would they get that animal to get IPF and study it if it's not known what causes it in the first place? So upon the discovery that Bleomycin can cause scarring in the lungs just like IPF. Scientists used the bleomycin-induced model of IPF to find out a lot about IPF which helped develop some treatments for that disease. This model is not perfect, and there are better models being developed, but for the longest time it was the best available scientists had. Which is kind of is the silver lining of this whole situation. I hope someone finds this interesting!
That is super interesting! G'luck with your studies and research! I'm glad there are people out there doing this research. I dipped my toes in as an undergrad and found it was not for me. You have my respect and gratitude.
My Pulmonologist used to specialize in supporting Fibrosis patients, but she moved on to specialize in A1AD (I was her first A1AD patient) as IPF had a bunch of support & research, but A1AD did not - even though both are fatal, nobody cared about A1AD patients. 🤷
It’s interesting to me. My mother died of IPF 12 years ago and at least for her, there was no options brought up as any kind of a possible treatment. They just tried to keep her somewhat comfortable. It was terrible. If we lived closer to a major research hospital, things might have been different.
Spent the entire video trying to decide if the cat was a cat (on the one hand it’s on top of a cat tree, but on the other hand it didn’t move at all), so I’m glad the cat’s cat-ness was addressed at the end of the video! But anyway congratulations on the completion of the first part of your treatment, I’m certain we are all hoping you can now have happy scans and not-too-miserable radiation!
Me too…cat question…glad you mentioned it. With everyone else here i thank you for sharing this journey which is so scary and about which we know very little until it happens to us. Wishing you many good things!
Man chemo patients are definitely next level strong. Good to see you in good spirits man. I know you hear this a lot but just from this video I know you got this! Much love brother.
It just struck me why I find you and your videos so great. I worked for a very long time with brilliant scientists and engineers (and some very smart lawyers too). They, like you, could get animated and get me excited about the most incredibly unlikely subjects. Just as you were somewhat tired and rundown by your last chemo, the more you go into your story, the more animated you became. For me, it was like being with them again. You are such a positive influence.
Thank you for talking about this. You’re saying about things that everyone is afraid to ask. I am thousands of miles away in Scotland wishing you well.
You have a huge support system behind you Hank. We’re always here for you, thank you for keeping up apart of your journey and being so honest about what’s going on. Stay strong ❤
It is so hard to see you exhausted like this but I’m so glad you’re sharing. I have a genetic condition that makes me exhausted and have the foggy brain feeling that you described a lot and, I know you know this, but it’ll pass. It’s horrific being in those moments and feeling like you’re never going to be “okay” again. I’ve always like hearing the reassurance that it’s not going to be this way forever even though it might be for a long time.
@@dana102083 me too!!! It’s horrible but I’m so thankful for the diagnosis because it felt like all of my issues were my fault but they were just symptoms….
@moiradarling97 I had a suspicion..always find my zebras in the midst. I hear you on that..double edged sword. My diagnosis lead me to being diagnosed with a csf leak and an epidural blood patch so it was essential..14.yrs of leaking... now I feel my best esting a krtogenic diet as it helps anlot with inflammation. I'm in high pressure now... my.csf production seem to still be cranked high afternso long and balancing the dysautonomia...thanks eds!!!! Sending gentle hugs xox
Got diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia June 20th, all your content has made me feel so much better about treatment! I really enjoy hearing about your experience and being able to also learn from you. Thanks for doing what you do :)
You have no idea how many people you are helping, being open and honest with this. Being seriously ill is such a lonely and scary time. Keep taking care of yourself! sending you good vibes.
It’s usually the loss of the myth of control - most of us have control over a very slim amount of things in life but we like to believe we have so much more agency - some things really are what they are for better or worse and it’s far more mindful to learn how to lean into the wave and brace it instead of run from it and get swallowed
Pet your cat, when you feel like it. That always seems to make me smile through the chronic fatigue (I do not have cancer, I’m simply chronically ill), even if it doesn’t necessarily make the chronic fatigue easier to deal with. You got this, you’re doing it!
Thank you Hank. Thank you for looking directly into your fears and hardships and making it into something honest and beautiful, and more than everything helpful to others. My mother is now going through Chemo. And she's not a good communicator of weakness and emotions. She always has to "play it tough". Watching this helped me a lot to understand better what she's going through, and hopefully how I can better talk to her to learn about it. Sending love and support 🐬 There is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in
Thanks for sharing so much of your journey with us, Hank. As a chronic illness fellow, I relate to a lot of your recent journey (as well as the UC journey) and am in awe of how much you’ve shared with us, and how open you’ve been about it. Thank you. Here’s crossing all my fingers and toes that your body has responded well to the treatment. ❤
Thank you, hank, for being so open about your chemo and cancer diagnosis. I know it’s a very hard process to go through and you are still educating us along the way. DFTBA :)
Thank you for being so transparent throughout this whole journey. Cancer feels like this huge looming possibility and this is one of the few times I've seen someone online share it all. Understandably most people probably want to do it in private, but your transparency takes some of the unknowns away
I have been fortunate enough to never have cancer. I do have chronic illnesses, including Fibromyalgia and Post-Viral Fatigue Syndrome. I am so sorry you're going through this constant exhaustion. I want you to know that being able to see you both show how bad it can feel, and being able to see you smiling through so much of it means the world to me. You are my sunshine, Hank. We'll get through this.
Damn, FM and post-viral fatigue are sh*tbags in their own right. My partner has severe ME among other things, and I've got thyroid problems with related mysteries. Hope the good times outweigh the bad for you.
I thought the way he described the psychological aspects of symptom monitoring was something all chronically and acutely ill people could relate to... it's a struggle for sure. I have many autoimmune conditions and can relate
Chronic migraine endurer chiming in, wishing all of us infinite spoons, more good days than bad, and being surrounded by people who believe you! We might not have casserole diseases, but we are also worthy of compassion, empathy, and care, even if that only comes from our own dang selves. (And strangers on the internet!) 💜💜💜🥄🥄🥄
Literally every male in my family has gone through it, and my dad was the first to not die from Cancer. You are doing great, and should be very proud of yourself for how well your doing. You are an inspiration, not just for you surviving, and staying strong through it, but also for the fact you have spent your time making others feel in simplest terms, not alone. Thank you for sharing this with us.
My dad's side of the family has been through touched by cancer. Multiple myeloma and leukemia took two of his brothers. My dad is one of the ones who got off "easy" with testicular cancer that was caught very early. My mom's mother's side has all types of lady bit cancers and breast cancer. I do sometimes worry for myself and my other family members about all of this nonsense. I feel like we hear So Much about people having cancer and that's scary to me. I wish we knew what's causing it to become so common. My dad is still alive in his 60s, thank goodness. But we've lost too many people from the various types of cancer. I hope they keep doing research and that one day perhaps it can be a thing of the past. ❤
Dude! Can't thank you enough for these videos. It's very admirable how open you've been through this. And you are a strong man. I know it's hard to feel that way sometimes but you're an awesomely inspirational person. Thank you as much as I can possibly express 💯
Keeping you in prayer. I have been a science geek since I was a kid. But is wasn’t cool and I wanted so badly to fit in somewhere; I didn’t really fit in with my family. Since I’ve turned 65 (5 years ago), I said screw it! I’m being the person I wanted to be in my youth. I love your channel. It’s like going to a cool science class. Thank you for sharing you knowledge and your cancer journey. Your fan base loves what you do so we need you to keep doing it when you feel well enough to do so.
You're being so brave documenting all of this when you feel bad, Hank. I'm sure it's helping a lot of people who are also going through or have gone through chemo. It's hard for me because I see my dad in you. And I get sad because I miss him so much. I hope this is the final round, Hank. I'm rooting for you!
Thank you for sharing what a rough day looks like. So much of social media is carefully planned and positive videos, without recognition of illness, fatigue, or struggle. Both you and John bring your authentic selves to your vlogs, and this is why we love you. I wish you rest and healing.
You can tell he’s so nervous, I rarely ever see him physically show it with his hands. I’m so sorry you’re going through this hank. You’ll pull through!
My wife went though cancer and chemo when she was in her twenties long before I met her. She's been deemed cancer free ever since and still dreads going to the check ins. Watching your journey had helped me understand what she went through a little better. Knowing how you presented yourself in the decade I've been watching you (I don't know you personally or anything) before this and then during this is also so much more informative than just watching one shot videos or reading studies etc. Thank you from some random lurker.
It really sucks that these challenges were forced upon you by the universe, and I really appreciate your sharing of what you've gone through and how you're managing it. When you have a platform like you do, your strength echoes. Thank you.
I had stage 4B HL at 20 years old, (6 rounds ABVD and 20 days radiation), this video really put me right back to remembering those chemo-hangover days. I have both lung and heart muscle scarring but with a team of solid doctors and some medication I live pretty much normally! I am even able to cycle 100 miles (and do that regularly!) These long-term treatment side effects are scary (I mean- we need our heart and lungs for the rest of our lives!!), but the conditions can be very manageable, I know that probably isn't super comforting, but I thought worth sharing. Wishing you all the best!
As scary and unpleasant as this must be for you Hank, thank you for letting us come on the journey with you. Knowing all the details and little ins and outs makes it much less scary. If something like this every happens to me or to my loved ones, I think I'll be able to approach it much more reasonably and with a clear head thanks to your as-always stellar and honest communication about it.
Hey Hank! Thank you for sharing your experience with us, I think it's so important to normalise talking about cancer, it's a much more common illness than people think! You're my hero, the reason I became interested in science and got into medical school! Thank you and I wish you all the best health!
I really appreciate this! A lot of this sounds similar to what I've dealt with for over a decade with chronic illness and i think it's really important to bring awareness to the reality of going through these kinds of things. We often only show our best times but it's important that people understand the bad times too.
Thank you for this video, Hank. It is so nice to hear from you and I really wish you the best! Keep on hanging in there. You're taking chemo like a champ!
Ive never experienced cancer, but what you said about the flu-like discomfort where you just cant seem to feel comfortable really reminded me of going through opiate withdrawal. And that was brought on by my own actions, i cant imagine having to take a medication that makes you feel that way with no way to relieve the pain besides riding it out, and then doing it again 2 weeks later just to live. Fighting cancer is a whole other kind of strength I swear.
Hi Hank!!! I have been watching you since early high school! And I’m now halfway through medical school and actually on surgical oncology rotation. So coming across your recent journey has been very impactful to say the least. You helped me understand soooo much over the last decade that I genuinely consider you a big part of my own journey to be where I finally am today (finally in medical school to be a doctor). Not only me but every single one of my friends, and your entire UA-cam community! Literally. I personally think having that great of an impact on someone’s life is one of life’s greatest experiences. A Very uniquely individualized personal impact to every single one of us. I personally think that is one of life’s greatest experiences - to make such an impact on someone’s life/journey. (Hence why I want to become a doctor). Anyways, you are a part of mine! It so incredibly admirable how you continue to be yourself no matter what you’re going through AND sharing it with us. 🎈 I am very very hopeful for you, Hank. 😇 I know you can do it. “All great things must first bestride the earth in frightening and monstrous masks in order to inscribe themselves in the heart of humanity.” - Friedrich Nietzsche
Thank you for all the videos detailing your journey, I didn't know much about chemo but have learnt a lot from you, both about the process and the daily effects. You have been amazing thoroughout this Hank, like seriously incredible.
Cheers to Hank who showed us a small glimps of what he has been going though. We can't go though it with him, we can only be passive bystanders. But he still wanted to do what he loves doing, educating people, being busy as he can be. But he also had to draw some hard boundrys and that in and of itself can be hard. So just big props to him for allowing us to see this small glimps into his health journey. Here's to hoping that things get better, or at last progress is made.
Hank, I love you man. On a personal level you've positively impacted my life. & as a nurse that worked years in oncology I commend you for sharing your experience. My heart goes out to you & yours.
I rarely comment because you have so many people that follow and love you. But Hank, you are amazing. I’ve had chemo, but not for cancer and I’m on a biologic and have been sick for seven weeks too. I have chronic illness and a cute illness, so I can totally relate. But your honesty, your vulnerability, your optimism, and and your straightforwardness are amazing. And both you and John, in your approach to all of us as friends and people who care about you is just beyond my understanding. Many people would focus on themselves, and become very introspective and in word, and only with their immediate family but you’ve shared this with us. I hope it’s giving you strength. I hope you feel our love and our support and I admire you. And that’s coming from a 66-year-old woman take care Hank and get well.
Thank you for doing these. I can't imagine the effort it takes now, but learning about it somehow makes it ever so slightly less scary for me. Thank you so much, and I'm hoping you both feel better and heal soon.
Love all of this. Currently in the "frequent follow-up" (constant panic) phase myself. I'm also finishing up my final year of medical school, and I'm planning to pursue hematology-oncology. :) I have been an avid vlogbrothers fan since high school, and your crashcourse biology videos were what made me love science. Sending you so much love and support; you've been really brave through all of this and will be on the other side soon!
I've watched you guys for years and always appreciated your direct approach to information. I could always trust you two to tell me the facts that you knew. I have also gained a lot of personal respect for you as I got my own cancer diagnosis and began chemo myself. You don't know me, but it's nice to have an old friend going through this with me. Thanks for sharing your journey.
As a chronically ill person I know (to some extent) how it is to be monitoring symptoms and not knowing which ones are important and what they might mean. And I know how horrible it is to lose mental capacity and clarity, especially when you're someone who values their academic abilities. It is so deeply frustrating. You have all my love and empathy. You are rocking this. You are surviving. You are not lazy. Your body is working SO god damn hard right now! And you must be feeling so many different emotions too which is also a lot of work. Please be kind to yourself. And feel your feelings, I am bad at this I like to logic my way out of it. I identify my feelings and talk about them but I don't let myself feel them, and you dont work through them that way longterm, they get repressed and eventually bubble up at much less convenient times than if you let yourself feel them in the first place. This is a big and scary thing you are going through.
I had never thought about dealing with emotions that way. I also logic my way through emotions a lot of the time. I'm great at analizing, talking about, journaling about what I'm going through and why. And then I wonder why the dsrned emotions don't go away. I hadn't considered that logicing them is not necessarily the same as feeling them. Thank you. I appreciate your pointing out that.
@anyascelticcreations you are very welcome! I had to do lots and lots of therapy before being able to understand it myself so I'm always happy to share the insights! I suspect a lot of vlogbrothers subscribers are the same way in terms of being very good at logic but not good at feeling the feelings (most people aren't good at it, because it sucks)
@@Rose-jz6sx I suspect you're right. And feeling them enough to see what they are isn't always the same as truly and fully feeling them. I suspect that a lot of us think/thought that feeling them enough to analyze them counts. I guess it does. But maybe we would benefit from allowing ourselves to feel them more. 🙏
Thank you so much for trying to create honest depictions of what chemo is like, I think it's important that accurate resources like this be available for anyone who is going through something similar. I wish for a swift alleviation in your symptoms, Hank.
Hey Hank I had 2a Hodkins too. I got done with chemo about 6 months before you started. The rebuilding is hard but way better than chemo. You're doing great man.
Thank you so much for giving us the privilege to see your updates and see you in such a vulnerable position. Your videos have helped me understand my mother more and what she went through while battling her cancers, she's 5 years in remission now. You've got this, you are freaking awesome and we are all so lucky to have you. Sending healing energy and positive thoughts your way🙏🏽💗
I got COVID very early (late Feb or early March 2020) and never really recovered - these videos have meant a lot to me. When you said you wanted to keep making things, I did not expect such thoughtful, vulnerable, and instructive content about your health journey and the ... sociology (??) of how we think/talk about serious health conditions. The sincerest thanks for sharing with us, and I hope the scans, continued treatment, and your general wellbeing are all as positive and smooth as possible going forward.
I can't thank you enough for these videos. My wife is going through the exact treatment and the exact same timing as you. To view this from a third person person perspective is heart breaking but your video is an incredible insight. I have watched all of them in regards to your condition. Just thank you.
Hey Hank! As a fellow cancer patient (grade II astrocytoma), congrats on finishing chemo! I hope your radiation goes well and you tolerate it well. I *personally* did not have any issues with my 30 days of radiation post-op, the whole process of in-and-out was very easy and the staff, nurses, and doctor were all wonderful! I hope it is the same for you. I just wanted to say that I love that you highlighted that cancer is not always as binary as it seems. I was diagnosed in summer of 2021, had the resection done in the fall of 2021, and then started radiation (30 days) and chemo (TMZ for 15 months). I finished the chemo at the beginning of this year, and my scans have come up clear, but I'm still not in the clear. Because the tumor was located in my brain, seizures are very common and lifelong. So now that they've got the cancer in remission (incurable unfortunately), we're focusing on seizure management. And boy, does it suck. Last month I had 11 seizures in my sleep. I'm not allowed to drive, I can't go back to work because having a seizure at work would be bad for everyone involved (I worked in a kitchen). I'm only 29 and, even in the VERY unlikely event this cancer never comes back, my life is changed forever. I'll most likely be on disability for the rest of my life, but I've made my peace with that. It's just refreshing to hear someone with your influence speak about how cancer is often more than just a "you have it or you don't" illness.
Good to see you smile while vlogging through loopy brain, malaise, headache, sleepiness, and the anxiety of self-monitoring for the ugliest side effects, Lots of NOT FUN. A big fist bump to you, Hank.
👊
+
@@fx-studio WTAF are you talking about? She had SEPSIS as a result of a severe bacterial infection, which has nothing to do with any vaccine. Not you being an anti-science covidiot in a science educator's comments section... 🙄
+
@@fx-studiobot comment
Hey! Radiation therapist here!! The consensus among the people I treat is that radiation is better than chemo.I hope your treatments go smoothly and I’m sending all the good vibes!!
I got radiation over the course of the month as a kid. I don’t remember it being particularly terrible. I got hit with nausea, but I dealt with that all the time anyway, and that’s what zophran is for.
My dad had radiation therapy for his cancer when I was a kid. I remember it taking the piss out of him and him sleeping a lot at that time.
That being said, I have to imagine chemo is much worse. No personal experience myself though.
I wouldn't wish any of it on anyone, but I'm glad Hank seems to be tolerating it as well as he can. Keeping him and the family in my thoughts. ❤
it is
Hard agree! Radiation was vacation compared to chemo.
Big tip for radiation though, speak up if you aren't comfortable during your simulation. You'll be like that for the rest of your treatment.
Sunflower, except for the burns. I had radiation from 1cm below my bottom lip to just below my diaphragm after six months of MOPP/ABVD chemo. I got bad cases of hiccups around a dozen times a day from about the fourth day of radiation until a few months after it was done. I had to constantly chew gum after the first week because it made my salivary glands quit working and that lasted years. But when I went back to high school I was the only one allowed to chew gum because of the notes from my radiologist and oncologist, lol. But after day four it hurt so bad to swallow even room temperature water. They had me stay on the peds ward for the month I had radiation and I lost weight faster because it was so painful to swallow anything and I told them that it felt like a sunburn, and my skin in the radiation area was considerably redder than the rest of my skin, but it felt like the sunburn was inside me too. They said it was because the radiation has to go all the way through and the burn doesn't just stop at the skin. I also lost my sense of smell for a little over twenty years, but that wasn't so bad. But you are right because if I just pick one out of the eight chemo drugs they gave me, the nitrogen mustard, and I had to choose between that and radiation I would definitely go with the radiation. But with all the long term effects from that chemo and radiation combined and all the surgeries and pain my body has been put through over the years and now that my once defeated Hodgkin's has come back after thirty years and brought along a few more cancers for backup I have kept fighting for all these extra years I was given, but I have to draw the line somewhere. So I've said no more chemo, no more radiation, no more surgeries. I'm on hospice now and for the first time in many many years I'm out of pain and am enjoying the time I have left. I hope you feel pride everyday for what you do, you literally are saving lives day by day and putting so much good out into the world not only by saving those in your care. But when those saved people do good things it's because you and the rest of their care team kept them alive to be able to do those good deeds. And my original cancer was Nodular Sclerosing Hodgkin's Lymphoma stage 4b so my radiation was maybe stronger than most people get and that's why I had a rough time with it. Plus it was also at an old military hospital since I was a military brat. I hope you have a sunshiny life Sunflower, you deserve it!
My dad was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 1995. They gave him 5 years. I took him to chemo a few times a week. Made sure after we left the treatment that I got some food in him, as chemo kills your appetite. Sadly, he passed away in 2008. My outlook is that he still beat cancer. They told him 5 years and he went 13. He got to see me get married. He got to see his granddaughter born.
Hank, you're already on your way to getting through this. You'll beat it. Get to see and experience tons more, and hopefully still be breaking down all things science to your followers for years to come.
Love you man!
I think he did too hun. You got 13 more years with him instead of 5. 🥰
Thanks for sharing. This is my goal. I have weekly chemo and my prognosis is 2 years. But I want to see my daughters settled and living their best life before I go anywhere so I’m aiming for 10.
You got this 💪💪💪
My mom saw all my kids born and that means so much to me. She passed away due to heart failure (stemming from mitral valve prolapse). Miss her like crazy but I'm so grateful she got to see me, just frankly, find happiness.
He fought his hardest and that matters. I gotta question the way we frame cancer - nobody says "he beat a heart attack" or "she lost to a car crash", it's only cancer that has this weird victim-blamey win-lose thing going on. Cancer killed my mum in a few months, does that mean I also have to call her a loser now she's dead?? What if someone is grieving and gets cancer and lets it take them? Are they a loser? Fighting for what you care about is admirable but we need to take this value judgement out of the whole process. Cancer is hard enough as it is.
Hi! Med student here. Please don't say you're "being lazy", you're SURVIVING. This shit is hard af and I know of all people I don't need to tell you that, but please have grace and mercy on yourself. The fact you're still producing videos at all is incredible and I hope you are celebrating your perseverance and strength through this!
I think he says it because “being lazy” is easier to say than “attempting to survive cancer”
Hank's personality, part of who he is, is an overachiever. He has stated that despite realizing how problematic it is he measures his self worth by how many things he does. I know that he knows surviving is work but he doesn't FEEL that way, I think you know that based on your comment. I think it is important to remind him that he is doing work by surviving and going above and beyond by making videos, but I don't know that telling him not to say things helps. I'm not him, I can't know how he'll hear it, but I know I would feel like that part of my experience is being belittled. So please, keep encouraging him, I will be too, but maybe try not to tell him how to feel.
I think he's joking with the word lazy, but I agree. He's used to being the CEO of multiple companies and doing all the other work he does. Stopping being so active so suddenly must be hard.
In a similar situation, my partner recently got a clot in her arm and has had to be off work for the last 2 months, she shouldn't be using a computer or lifting heavy objects, etc, but she's finding it hard to stop and just recover as she's supposed to and she feels "lazy" not doing her usual things. Life makes it hard to just come to a complete stop when you have some momentum.
He doesn't really need to be judged based on his words
He wants our money and sympathy.
Welcome to the elite baldness club, Hank! We are all here for you.
The heir disapparent
protip: don't look at the club members in direct sunlight.
@@thaphreak as long as you're wearing a hat or sunscreen, it's fine. If you're a member, plan to give and receive a slight nod of recognition.
I am not here for Hank, I am here to tell him that using a life threatening disease is a shitty way to score internet points.
@@kayakMike1000 Thank you for sharing your perspective, but I believe it's important to approach the world with empathy and understanding. Many people, including myself and other members of the elite baldness club, find comfort in expressing solidarity and support for Hank during this challenging time. Let's focus on encouraging those who are struggling with anything, even if they are otherwise successful and happy, and sending positive thoughts. We can all make a difference by showing kindness and compassion. Life can be challenging for all of us at times. If you're going through something that is giving you a negative perspective, I hope you triumph over it.
Congrats on finishing chemo! As a Hodgkin’s survivor myself, I wanted to give you a few thoughts about what’s to come (or may/may not come, as everyone is different):
1. Scan anxiety sucks. Every single one of my cancer friends is convinced in the days leading up to a scan that the cancer is back, even years out of treatment with no sign of relapse. So if scans start freaking with your mind, just know that it’s normal, and that you are not alone.
2. Radiation can cause fatigue that’s even worse than from the ABVD. Be prepared to take naps when necessary.
3. It can take a long time for your body to get back to its new normal. I remember being so frustrated months after treatment that I didn’t have the energy level I used to. But it did get better. So try to be kind to yourself if it takes longer than you expect.
4. You’ve got this! You’ve made it through the worst, so hang in there for this last bit!
All very true IME ❤
For sure, my spouse is 25 years out from Hodgkin's treated with ABVD then too. I very much remember the scan anxiety. It was overwhelming with the "certainty" (really fear) that the cancer returns. There was also anxiety and a feeling of vulnerability when you're not regularly visiting a doctor. Fatigue from radiation was also a big deal.
#1 is so true! I have that every time.
You are doing great! Just take this time to rest. I’m two years post chemo/ radiation . Radiation only made me a little tired for a day or two. It sounds like you are researching too much. Knowledge is not always power, sometimes ignorance is bliss. I didn’t want to know much about my cancer or the possible side effects or outcomes because I didn’t want to scare myself about what might not happen. I just wanted to deal with what I needed to as I needed to. No sense worrying about what might happen. Take care of yourself and rest.
💪👍✌️❤ Get well, dearie. 👵
I’m constantly impressed by hanks ability to be so raw and honest in front of the camera especially during such a difficult time
Pretty sure it’s basically a diary for him at this stage
I had a rare pediatric renal cancer in 1975. I am on one of the longest cancer research studies in the U.S. the late effects have been very difficult. How treatment has changed over the decades, making the protocol less brutal and how people are responding in such a positive way to you lifts my heart. It's a long journey, find the magic. ❤
If you don't mind my asking is it Wilm's tumor? I had that and it's a pedatric renal cancer so i'm always curious to meet others.
Was chemo different back then versus now.
@@erikak8187 I'm pretty sure you were not replying to me however, I am in a unique position to answer that question. I had wilms both when I was 7 and 11 and again at 31 (which is almost unheard of). I'm now 39.
I received similar treatments between them. I was taking mostly the same medicine and in general the equipment used was the same. The equipment seemed to be a few new generations The anti-nausea medication has improved significantly. The actually treatment was more aggressive as an adult so it's hard to make a comparison but I'm my case each time the course was cut short due to the worsening of the side effects.
You're a rockstar, Katherine's a rockstar, Orin's a rockstar. And the cat, of course. Much love.
Is that his cat on the tower in the background?
@@tomatochemist yes! Hardly moves so it's hard to see lol
Isn't the cat named Gummy Bear?
@@Zhiperser I think so but I’m not up on Green lord :)
@@davidalexallen I thought it might be a hat or coat collar tossed over lol. They certainly know how to blend in when they’re cozy!
I did 6 months of chemo. The accumulation effects were very real and it was hardest at the end. I wish you the best on your treatments and look forward to you all healed up.
Ugh. I only had a month of radiation and it sucked hard by the end.
My great aunt had been diagnosed with Ovarian cancer years ago, went through chemo, beat cancer. Then the cancer came back a few years later. She went through chemo for a while, and after 3 years it had worn her body out. She eventually stopped doing chemo and she passed away a few weeks ago. I honestly have no resolution to make from this, I just felt like this was a safe space for me to share. Losing my Aunt Joann has been one of the most heartbreaking things I've gone through. I miss her so much.
My heart is with you. It is so hard to watch from the sidelines. It is never something we will completely get over. One day at a time
I'm sorry for your loss. Truly. I think I'm going to share something too.
My sister had thyroid cancer a few years ago, but luckily they could just take the organ away and with some treatment it never came back. But those were some tough months for her and everyone around.
Cancer took away a family friend 3 years ago, she was there one moment, ok, and suddenly she was diagnosed, and passed away a month later.
Lung cancer made my grandmother's last years of her life way harder and took away a lot of her quality of life. It was really painful seeing the effects.
My uncle was under treatment for lung cancer for more than 3 years but finally passed away 1 year and a half ago. I saw him deteriorating and I don't think I'll ever forget that.
I'm still processing all that grief, and I'm not even the one who was the closest to them, although I loved them dearly.
Cancer sucks. I needed to say that.
@@irmaa8291 That is so much to go through for one person. I hope you are taking care of yourself
Hank I'm 78 and have stage 4 colon cancer. Get chemo every 2 weeks and don't function for 1 week after. I talk to God alot and no mater how i feel i get up and do some sort of exercise . You can do it. I know you can and it helps a lot. My sessions last 4 to 6 hours and it's the 3 day's later that hurts but your mind can overcome most of the pain. You will be fine and my family will pray for you.❤
You got this. Stay strong.
God bless brother I'm also praying for you
Stay strong. May you have hope in Jesus.
God bless you. Will pray for your recovery, peace, and your family.
Hello, Hank. My brother’s wife was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid leukemia shortly after you shared your discovery with us. She is undergoing a six-week intense chemo treatment, and only a few family members can visit her before treatments. She seemed to be responding well, so everyone was rooting for her. I am also rooting for you.
I'm rooting for your brother's wife! Take all my good vibes!!!
I went through treatment for AML last year, at 25, and am on the other side post transplant. Please let me know if you or your family would benefit from talking with someone who's been where she is.
I’m so sorry to hear about your wife’s leukemia. Hope she has a good recovery.
Sending support and good vibes to her and your family! I hope she recovers well!
AML sucks. I was diagnosed at the beginning of last year. Two transplants later my treatment is complete now. Relapse is always a possibility but hoping for the best.
You're a f*****g hero for being so vulnerable. This video will help so many people that are experiencing the same thing. Love you Hank❤❤❤❤
he already was though.
@@MSG685just because he already is a hero, or being vulnerable, doesn’t mean he can’t become more of a hero for someone, or show more vulnerability 🥲
Even superheroes can level up :)
"You are a hero for being vulnerable"
Do most people even self reflect whatsoever upon what they're saying?
@@benq3009 In my experience, no, not always, especially on the internet, there's also the lack of non-verbal/written communication which means that their actual meaning could be lost or obscured by only being as partial message.
For example, your question could well have been rhetorical but it's hard for me to know your intent without asking.
Cancer survivor here. When you said about people coming out of cancer treatment with lifelong disability, know that, for almost every survivor, one's body is permanently changed from cancer + treatment. It doesn't manifest as what would be recognized as a disability for some, but your body will recover in a different way from how you remember your body before. That's totes okay - it's how life works. But it's good to know that you're permanently in the "during/after cancer" part of your body now.
Wishing you the best, Hank. 💚💚
Also radiation sucks about as much as chemo (unsurprisingly). Best wishes, man. I've always looked up to you 🥺
Nice
Hello Hank,
I'm sorry you're going through this.
My eldest son was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma on his 14th birthday - He went through chemo and recovered - he then relapsed 1 year later and had to go through chemo and radiation again (fortunately, because he was older, he was able to do his radiation at to local General Hospital (our local Pediatric Hospital didn't have the ability at the time todo radiation treatment and we would have had to relocate 6 hours away otherwise). He fully recovered, but affectively lost two years of his youth (he never learned to drive at 16 like most children etc) - and he suffers crazy complications to this day from the treatments - not limited to the radiation destroyed his teeth. He's been seeing dental specialists helping rebuild the cracks and chipped up edges. And, currently at age 25, just this week he will be getting implants to replace every tooth on the upper right side because they weren't able to save them. But I'm grateful he's here. While at the children's hospital, I unfortunately watched to many families who children did not survive there cancers.
I'm grateful to you for sharing your journey, though want to stress you owe no one anything. Your only job(s) right now, are to take care of yourself, and hug your family as much as you're able.
Cheers to you
most people dont learn to drive at 16.. alot do, but its far from most
@@IdolMako I'm almost 40 and I still haven't learned, nor do I have any desire. That aside, that's what a lot of people miss about surviving cancer. You still do often suffer long term side effects, maybe even life long. But, there's something about surviving something like cancer that makes you appreciate life even more.
Hank Green: my brain isn't working
Also Hank Green: records an an amazingly coherent and well structured impromptu vlog about his experiences, thoughts and feelings, education about cancer treatment, and plans for the future
It’s random when chemo brain kicks in. Sometimes it’s hard to think of words.
@@chewbakkah7144 Stroke brain is like that, too. I can have deep discussions about obscure philosophical topics, then all of a sudden I can't produce Mandy Patinkin's name. Just, full-stop, brain no brain.
The thing is, when you are super bright, you can take a big hit to your mental functioning and still come across to others as very articulate. But internally, you very much notice, and it is really upsetting.
@@saraholson5946 it's incredibly upsetting. You know you know it. It's not like you can't remember. You know the file exists. It's there. You're reading it. But the one bit you need is sitting there, right in front of you, but instead of being the info you want, it's a smudge that you can't, in the moment, read. You read it five minutes ago. You'll read it again tomorrow. But just then? Eff you in particular.
@@drunkenfarmerjohn42give yourself time, things may improve. Even adult human brains are more 'plastic' than it was once thought.
Just, look after yourself well physically. Food, sleep etc.
Brain and body work as one single, complex, unit. One easily affecting the other.
A simple drop in blood sugar can have a marked effect even those of us who have no real health problems when it comes to things like memory(cognitive function).
Cat is showing how Hank feels through interpretative napping.
😂
My brother passed at 19 years old in 2021 after just a few months of being diagnosed with Ewings Sarcoma. I truly miss him. I don't even know what to type, but your videos have brought me to tears and I just wanted to mention him. You and anyone going through this is a true fighter. I wish you the best.
I’m truly sorry. It’s so hard to accept the sudden loss of a young healthy person, not that it’s ever easy. (Still, maybe not ideal to share this with someone who’s still going through treatment and hoping for best results, even though Hank is a sharing and loving person)
Technoblade😢😢
Sarcoma is the worst!!
Hank, I think it is really important to be mindful of the words you use, and how they will affect you psychologically. You are NOT lazy. You are sick. You are feeling fatigue. Remember all the things your body is doing trying to heal itself. You arent lazy, in fact, your body is working harder than the average person. Im glad chemo is finally over, i have been told, it really is the hardest part of everything. Take care of yourself. I know its hard as hell.
I don't think he meant sick or fatigued, though.
I suspect it's something that it's hard to find a word for... something like "inescapably bored."
Hang in there Hank. This is truly an and impressive service that you're doing here. You are a gift to humanity.
The fact that your cat didn't move the entire video shows how peaceful your home is. I hope you get to enjoy that peace more and more
But also I was super disappointed we didn’t get to see more of the kitty!
This is so sweet
Wait, cats move!? Why does mine look like a ⚫ 22 hours of the day?
I'm genuinely not sure if that's Gummy Bear or a wig / fake fur something
JK I wasn't quite done with the video yet
I've been in remission for 19 years and I have a check up appointment next week. I still get anxious every time that there will be unexpected news. You sharing this journey with us has been comforting and less lonely. Thank you, and 'Hank' in there 😁❤
You're so ahead of the game with 19 yrs in remission! You're going to be fine but I am sending hugs and good vibes to you just to be sure. ❤
^^ What they said, and also I can't believe I haven't seen that pun before 😂
How’d it go ?
The fatigue and brain fog is no joke. Life is just harder when you don't feel well. It's nice to see you up and talking! Thanks for the update, be well.
As someone with anxiety, I can't imagine how nerve wracking going through this would be. The fear of every ache and fever and headache possibly meaning something serious, in addition to the toll just feeling physically awful takes on your emotions, and the loss of brain focus to be able rationalize those emotions...
Thank you for your vulnerability in showing that fighting cancer is HARD. There's a desire that a lot of people have to only show the positive, to put on a brave face so as to inspire others who are going through similar things... But I don't believe that really helps, because it makes people who CAN'T put on a brave face, who can't be positive, who struggle with the fear and depression and the emotional toll that the physical SUCK of the whole situation creates, feel like they are not strong enough, that they are failing, or that they are closer to being beaten by the disease. You are showing the truth: is hard, it sucks, and maybe you can find some positive moments where it sucks less, but it still sucks to have to go through it!
And you aren't being "lazy"; you could lay in bed 24/7 for months and you would still not be lazy, because every moment, you are battling this disease, you are surviving!
Yes to everything you said. Chronic disease sucks. Fatigue sucks. Anxiety and depression sucks. Mixing those really sucks.
Sometimes persisting is enough. Just making it through today is enough. I had a stretch of life about 3 years long where a few of those things created a bit of a perfect storm for suckiness, and making it through felt simultaneously impossibly difficult and also incredibly insufficient.
But it was enough. I'm better now than I was then, I'm better now than I thought even possible during those three years. Not perfect, not outstanding, but I am here today. I persisted, and I am here. That's pretty damn impressive.
In my breast cancer treatment, I lost my hair and I allowed only 2 people to see it. I found it was a big part of my identity, and I needed hair. My mom gave me three of her wigs, and I was relieved. She even said I looked sexier in them than she did! 😊
I did go visit my best friend. In the kitchen, when everybody else was in the living room, my friends daughter, a fashion-plate in her own right, gushed about how good my hair looked, and I smiled. Then I pulled my wig off and she was shocked and giggled. So did I. But I showed only her and my Brother in law (who ran errands for me and told me stories about a fellow Navy seaman who had alopecia.) He said the alopecia guy was a big man, and when somebody called him a baby, he punched the guy to knock down 2 bunk beds. Nobody called him baby after that. My BIL was great like that.
Also my brother in law would get me a big meat-filled hamburger and smoothie and fries every time he got me groceries. And he'd make sure I ate it all. He and my sister were very protective of me and wanted to make sure I was healthy.
Thank you for that. For writing that. I think that could apply for so many people whk are going through other chronic diseases, too. I especially struggle with the part about putting on a brave face when what I really feel is terrible. Because the brave face is expected. People don't want to see less. And so we pretend to be alright. But then that gives the impression that we are alright. When, if they saw us 24/7 they would know that we are not. I'm guessing that most of the people who will read this will understand.
@@phillyphakename1255 I'm really proud of you for persisting and making it through. I know how hard that it. It's only been a handful of years now that I've been glad that I'm alive. That doesn't mean that I feel good, as I'm sure many of us could say. But we're here. We're alive. And we're doing better than we thought we could. I say as I sit in front of my new cane. But what I meant to say is, go you! You're here. And I'm proud of you.
@@anyascelticcreations
Indeed! Cancer treatment isn't a once-and-done thing, even if you never get treated a second time! It affects other organs including the brain. People experience brain fog for a significant length of time afterwards. People experience weakness and quite a bit of fragility. I've known some cancer survivors who were quite skinny, and that's not all because of having worked out and gotten athletic. There are many breast cancer survivors who paddle and compete in dragon boat races (like me!) who are at any point in their treatment. Some post treatment like me, and others who are going through it.
A number of people get kinkier hair. One I met had very tightly-curled hair after treatment.
I had Adriamycin and Cytoxan (A/C), which is a very strong chemo, and I lost my hair. Then one morning several weeks after chemo, I woke up with my ears being tickled. I hate that! I brushed my hair aside then became surprised! "I have hair!" I yelled. Things come back slowly. Be patient.
Hank the “thing you’re supposed to be doing” is recovery from chemo and prepping mentally and physically as best as you can for radiation
As you said at the beginning “cancer treatment is your job now”, that doesn’t change just because you’re on a new stage of treatment DFTBA
+
+
+
+
+
I'm glad you have your kitty friend to help you through this journey, along with all the human support. Feline therapy is the best. We're all rooting for you, and congrats on finishing chemo.
++
This man is a hero to a lot of people. You already have a legacy that will live on for the next century. Not many people can leave the kind of impact that Hank Green will leave on our world. I wish you and your family the best.
I really appreciate you showing everyone what it’s like on a “bad cancer treatment” day. Sometimes we can be more energetic and act like our old selves for hours at a time. Other days, we don’t eat because getting up and microwaving a can of soup is too exhausting. I’m so glad you have a support system to help you on those days. Virtual hug from the Uniboober. 😁
(please don't microwave the can anybody)
Microwaving a can could be exhausting for me too 😂
+
Don't microwave metals please!!!!
Yall they probably meant a can worth of soup that they put in a dish to microwave, why are you so hung up on that part as opposed to the rest of the comment 😭
You're NOT lazy. Lazy would be being healthy and just...not doing stuff (especially stuff you should be.) You're working to get healthy. That's f'ing hard work. Sucks that it's so hard, definitely more than I can imagine.
As always, thank you for sharing something so personal. ❤
+
Lol I like that this vlog ended with "that's my cat, I'm gonna lie down now". Congrats on getting through the chemo portion! And thanks for the update, it's always wonderful to hear from you :D
Hank, you’re incredibly brave. I’m going through the work up of what keeps becoming more of a reality that I may have lymphoma. Biopsy is next. The 24/7 anxiety this has given me is debilitating. I couldn’t imagine making it through what you have with a smile on my face still. Thank you for giving people going through the diagnosis phase a little hope that it won’t be so bad if it is this. You’re appreciated.
Also I’ve watched you since 2012, and it feels like we’re friends. You don’t know me, but thank you for everything. Your highs and lows have been motivational for more people than you know.
Wish you lots of health!
Raise your hand if you've got scan anxiety right now. Waiting is hard. That's where I'm at in my cancer "journey." I gotta wait a few weeks. I understand the all-consuming tired, and I don't wish it on anyone. Remember to get some fresh air (if you can) because it's surprisingly refreshing sometimes. Also, sleep is when your body repairs itself; don't fight it. Allow yourself the all the naps you can handle!! Best wishes!!
Good luck with your scan!! I hope you hear good news!
❤
@@silverbluelily Thanks! Here's hoping for a nice August!!
I just got my scan results back, so I know how you feel. That wait and the adjustment in treatment is so anxiety causing.
Cripes I’m anxious when I get regular bloodwork and I’m an official wreck weeks before and day of mammogram/ultrasound and then of course, waiting.
I wish you comfort and wellbeing and strength. Bless you dear💜
You owe us nothing, but you give us so, so much. These updates are so nice of you to do. Thank you. ❤
I can truly empathize with you! I recently (Jan '22) finished up chemo. I had rectal cancer, and it was a real pain in the ass. I went through 6 weeks of chemo via pump and radiation in tandem, followed by 5 cycles of chemo infusions in clinic and 2 days of chemo via a pump. It was not a great time. I think the worst part of the treatment was the steroids and some injection to boost my WBC. Then, I had an ileostomy for a few months after they removed the tumor and finally a reversal surgery to reconnect my plumbing. I think it's safe to say that it was the most traumatic event of my life (so far), and I'm now in therapy. No one told me that I wouldn't be over the moon with joy once I beat cancer. I felt so hollow. But finally, I'm starting to feel like myself again! You'll be on the other side of this whole ordeal before you know it, and then you can really begin to heal ❤
Statistically, a number of us will eventually develop cancer and have to go through chemo. Thank you for documenting and sharing your journey with us. Understanding what one is about to go through and hearing about it from someone who has been there can help a lot. You didn't have to do things this way and it can't be easy to video and share while going through treatment. Know that it means a lot to those who will have to face this one day. Thank you.
My family has a toddler who’s non-verbal going through chemo right now. Listening to you talk about it and how you feel is very good insight. I know it’s all different, but it helps.
sending love to your family!
I work at a cancer center and talk to patients about their lives and their symptoms every day, but sometimes I feel like there's limits to how well I can understand what our patients go through -- I can't go home with them and see what living on chemo is really like, and I can't fully share the burden with them even if I want to. Seeing you posting these genuine, intimate moments helps me to keep my passion for what we do. Thanks for what you do, Hank! Dftba, and drink some protein shakes for me!
Thank you for all that you do for cancer patients. It rocked me to my core when I went through my own diagnosis 23 years ago. I don’t actually remember a lot of things that happened in life during my treatment, but I remember every caregiver that was kind and compassionate when I needed it most. It takes a special person to keep being there for people in crisis day after day. You are SO appreciated! ❤
Mr. Green,
We believe in you.
*You've got this.*
All my love and good healing energy to you.
Thank you for the video. 💙
I feel so bad hearing you talk about the symptoms, especially the mental ones. It resonates with me personally bc I had a traumatic brain inury, so I spent months like that. Just so constantly sleepy, awake at odd hours, confused, unable to process things or retain info, dizzy, anxious, awful headaches, frequently hot and cold, and nauseated. It just sucked. I'm really glad your close to the end of your chemo. I hope you continue to do well and recover quickly. ❤️
I'm a PhD student in a lung research lab and I just wanted to share this story about Bleomycin that Hank might know but someone might find it interesting, here it is. After it was found that the chemotherapeutic drug Bleomycin can cause scarring of the lungs, doctors of course started monitoring patients who took it as part of their cancer treatments just like Hank talked about.
However, here is the interesting part. We study idiopathic lung fibrosis (IPF) in our lab, which is a disease of an unknown origin that causes scarring of the lung. Now, If a scientist is trying to study a disease of no known cause in an animal model, how would they get that animal to get IPF and study it if it's not known what causes it in the first place?
So upon the discovery that Bleomycin can cause scarring in the lungs just like IPF. Scientists used the bleomycin-induced model of IPF to find out a lot about IPF which helped develop some treatments for that disease. This model is not perfect, and there are better models being developed, but for the longest time it was the best available scientists had.
Which is kind of is the silver lining of this whole situation.
I hope someone finds this interesting!
That is super interesting! G'luck with your studies and research! I'm glad there are people out there doing this research. I dipped my toes in as an undergrad and found it was not for me. You have my respect and gratitude.
My Pulmonologist used to specialize in supporting Fibrosis patients, but she moved on to specialize in A1AD (I was her first A1AD patient) as IPF had a bunch of support & research, but A1AD did not - even though both are fatal, nobody cared about A1AD patients. 🤷
@@Ersa0431 thank you!
It’s interesting to me. My mother died of IPF 12 years ago and at least for her, there was no options brought up as any kind of a possible treatment. They just tried to keep her somewhat comfortable. It was terrible. If we lived closer to a major research hospital, things might have been different.
@@ccccc7848I'm sorry you had to experience that, what was your mom like?
Spent the entire video trying to decide if the cat was a cat (on the one hand it’s on top of a cat tree, but on the other hand it didn’t move at all), so I’m glad the cat’s cat-ness was addressed at the end of the video! But anyway congratulations on the completion of the first part of your treatment, I’m certain we are all hoping you can now have happy scans and not-too-miserable radiation!
This was my exact question, and I was too self-conscious to ask. Lol.
Yes! I'm literally in the comments less than halfway through the video because I couldn't stand *not* knowing.
Me too…cat question…glad you mentioned it. With everyone else here i thank you for sharing this journey which is so scary and about which we know very little until it happens to us. Wishing you many good things!
Same here!
Thanks for the update, Hank. I’m hoping and wishing for complete recovery for you.
Man chemo patients are definitely next level strong. Good to see you in good spirits man. I know you hear this a lot but just from this video I know you got this! Much love brother.
It just struck me why I find you and your videos so great. I worked for a very long time with brilliant scientists and engineers (and some very smart lawyers too). They, like you, could get animated and get me excited about the most incredibly unlikely subjects. Just as you were somewhat tired and rundown by your last chemo, the more you go into your story, the more animated you became. For me, it was like being with them again. You are such a positive influence.
You are doing a great job peeing out the cancer. We love you and we care about whatever you are up to sharing.
Thank you for talking about this. You’re saying about things that everyone is afraid to ask. I am thousands of miles away in Scotland wishing you well.
You have a huge support system behind you Hank. We’re always here for you, thank you for keeping up apart of your journey and being so honest about what’s going on. Stay strong ❤
It is so hard to see you exhausted like this but I’m so glad you’re sharing. I have a genetic condition that makes me exhausted and have the foggy brain feeling that you described a lot and, I know you know this, but it’ll pass. It’s horrific being in those moments and feeling like you’re never going to be “okay” again. I’ve always like hearing the reassurance that it’s not going to be this way forever even though it might be for a long time.
+
I have hEDS.. spoons indeed...
@@dana102083 me too!!! It’s horrible but I’m so thankful for the diagnosis because it felt like all of my issues were my fault but they were just symptoms….
@moiradarling97 I had a suspicion..always find my zebras in the midst. I hear you on that..double edged sword. My diagnosis lead me to being diagnosed with a csf leak and an epidural blood patch so it was essential..14.yrs of leaking... now I feel my best esting a krtogenic diet as it helps anlot with inflammation. I'm in high pressure now... my.csf production seem to still be cranked high afternso long and balancing the dysautonomia...thanks eds!!!! Sending gentle hugs xox
Jesus this title gave me a heart attack
Why? I honestly don't get it.
*EDIT* Ok, I get it now.
@@williandalsoto806”final chemo” could mean two different things
I was so worried
@@williandalsoto806maybe they thought that hank was dying? At least that’s what I was terrified of
Actually did a double take on the title
Got diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia June 20th, all your content has made me feel so much better about treatment! I really enjoy hearing about your experience and being able to also learn from you. Thanks for doing what you do :)
You have no idea how many people you are helping, being open and honest with this. Being seriously ill is such a lonely and scary time. Keep taking care of yourself! sending you good vibes.
One of the hardest psychological issues I had was the loss of control over my life. You got this.
It’s usually the loss of the myth of control - most of us have control over a very slim amount of things in life but we like to believe we have so much more agency - some things really are what they are for better or worse and it’s far more mindful to learn how to lean into the wave and brace it instead of run from it and get swallowed
Lack of control is ABSOLUTELY the hardest part for me, by far.
Pet your cat, when you feel like it. That always seems to make me smile through the chronic fatigue (I do not have cancer, I’m simply chronically ill), even if it doesn’t necessarily make the chronic fatigue easier to deal with. You got this, you’re doing it!
Jesus christ did you just compare your fibromyalgia somatic bullshit with going through chemo?
Thank you Hank.
Thank you for looking directly into your fears and hardships and making it into something honest and beautiful, and more than everything helpful to others.
My mother is now going through Chemo. And she's not a good communicator of weakness and emotions. She always has to "play it tough". Watching this helped me a lot to understand better what she's going through, and hopefully how I can better talk to her to learn about it.
Sending love and support 🐬
There is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in
Thanks for sharing so much of your journey with us, Hank. As a chronic illness fellow, I relate to a lot of your recent journey (as well as the UC journey) and am in awe of how much you’ve shared with us, and how open you’ve been about it. Thank you. Here’s crossing all my fingers and toes that your body has responded well to the treatment. ❤
Thank you, hank, for being so open about your chemo and cancer diagnosis. I know it’s a very hard process to go through and you are still educating us along the way. DFTBA :)
I'm sure this update took a lot out of you. It's appreciated. I'm rooting for you! 💪🏽
Thank you for being so transparent throughout this whole journey. Cancer feels like this huge looming possibility and this is one of the few times I've seen someone online share it all. Understandably most people probably want to do it in private, but your transparency takes some of the unknowns away
I hope this is it on the cycles my man. I'll pray for you that you got this thing beat permanently! Hang in there and keep up the good fight!
I have been fortunate enough to never have cancer. I do have chronic illnesses, including Fibromyalgia and Post-Viral Fatigue Syndrome. I am so sorry you're going through this constant exhaustion. I want you to know that being able to see you both show how bad it can feel, and being able to see you smiling through so much of it means the world to me. You are my sunshine, Hank. We'll get through this.
Damn, FM and post-viral fatigue are sh*tbags in their own right. My partner has severe ME among other things, and I've got thyroid problems with related mysteries. Hope the good times outweigh the bad for you.
I'm in those camps with both of you, too. Definitely not fun times. But here we all are. And we're making it through.
I thought the way he described the psychological aspects of symptom monitoring was something all chronically and acutely ill people could relate to... it's a struggle for sure.
I have many autoimmune conditions and can relate
@@hughcaldwell1034wait thyroid conditions are chronic illnesses??? omg ive related to so many people with chronic illnesses and now i know why lmao
Chronic migraine endurer chiming in, wishing all of us infinite spoons, more good days than bad, and being surrounded by people who believe you! We might not have casserole diseases, but we are also worthy of compassion, empathy, and care, even if that only comes from our own dang selves. (And strangers on the internet!) 💜💜💜🥄🥄🥄
Literally every male in my family has gone through it, and my dad was the first to not die from Cancer. You are doing great, and should be very proud of yourself for how well your doing.
You are an inspiration, not just for you surviving, and staying strong through it, but also for the fact you have spent your time making others feel in simplest terms, not alone.
Thank you for sharing this with us.
My dad's side of the family has been through touched by cancer. Multiple myeloma and leukemia took two of his brothers. My dad is one of the ones who got off "easy" with testicular cancer that was caught very early. My mom's mother's side has all types of lady bit cancers and breast cancer.
I do sometimes worry for myself and my other family members about all of this nonsense. I feel like we hear So Much about people having cancer and that's scary to me. I wish we knew what's causing it to become so common.
My dad is still alive in his 60s, thank goodness. But we've lost too many people from the various types of cancer.
I hope they keep doing research and that one day perhaps it can be a thing of the past. ❤
@@CleverestWitch2188I hope you feel happy every day and try not to worry, enjoy life!
Dude! Can't thank you enough for these videos. It's very admirable how open you've been through this. And you are a strong man. I know it's hard to feel that way sometimes but you're an awesomely inspirational person. Thank you as much as I can possibly express 💯
Keeping you in prayer. I have been a science geek since I was a kid. But is wasn’t cool and I wanted so badly to fit in somewhere; I didn’t really fit in with my family. Since I’ve turned 65 (5 years ago), I said screw it! I’m being the person I wanted to be in my youth. I love your channel. It’s like going to a cool science class. Thank you for sharing you knowledge and your cancer journey. Your fan base loves what you do so we need you to keep doing it when you feel well enough to do so.
Whether explaining how black holes work or sharing the awfulness of cancer treatment, You're always a spellbinder Hank. You got this, and we got you❤❤
You're being so brave documenting all of this when you feel bad, Hank. I'm sure it's helping a lot of people who are also going through or have gone through chemo.
It's hard for me because I see my dad in you. And I get sad because I miss him so much.
I hope this is the final round, Hank. I'm rooting for you!
Thank you for sharing what a rough day looks like. So much of social media is carefully planned and positive videos, without recognition of illness, fatigue, or struggle. Both you and John bring your authentic selves to your vlogs, and this is why we love you. I wish you rest and healing.
You can tell he’s so nervous, I rarely ever see him physically show it with his hands. I’m so sorry you’re going through this hank. You’ll pull through!
My wife went though cancer and chemo when she was in her twenties long before I met her. She's been deemed cancer free ever since and still dreads going to the check ins. Watching your journey had helped me understand what she went through a little better.
Knowing how you presented yourself in the decade I've been watching you (I don't know you personally or anything) before this and then during this is also so much more informative than just watching one shot videos or reading studies etc. Thank you from some random lurker.
It really sucks that these challenges were forced upon you by the universe, and I really appreciate your sharing of what you've gone through and how you're managing it. When you have a platform like you do, your strength echoes. Thank you.
I had stage 4B HL at 20 years old, (6 rounds ABVD and 20 days radiation), this video really put me right back to remembering those chemo-hangover days. I have both lung and heart muscle scarring but with a team of solid doctors and some medication I live pretty much normally! I am even able to cycle 100 miles (and do that regularly!) These long-term treatment side effects are scary (I mean- we need our heart and lungs for the rest of our lives!!), but the conditions can be very manageable, I know that probably isn't super comforting, but I thought worth sharing. Wishing you all the best!
As scary and unpleasant as this must be for you Hank, thank you for letting us come on the journey with you. Knowing all the details and little ins and outs makes it much less scary. If something like this every happens to me or to my loved ones, I think I'll be able to approach it much more reasonably and with a clear head thanks to your as-always stellar and honest communication about it.
Hey Hank! Thank you for sharing your experience with us, I think it's so important to normalise talking about cancer, it's a much more common illness than people think! You're my hero, the reason I became interested in science and got into medical school! Thank you and I wish you all the best health!
+
Your strength and work ethic are mind boggling. You’ve got this and we’re all sending health and healing vibes your way!
I really appreciate this! A lot of this sounds similar to what I've dealt with for over a decade with chronic illness and i think it's really important to bring awareness to the reality of going through these kinds of things. We often only show our best times but it's important that people understand the bad times too.
Thank you for this video, Hank. It is so nice to hear from you and I really wish you the best! Keep on hanging in there. You're taking chemo like a champ!
Ive never experienced cancer, but what you said about the flu-like discomfort where you just cant seem to feel comfortable really reminded me of going through opiate withdrawal. And that was brought on by my own actions, i cant imagine having to take a medication that makes you feel that way with no way to relieve the pain besides riding it out, and then doing it again 2 weeks later just to live. Fighting cancer is a whole other kind of strength I swear.
Sending you all the love Hank. Thank you for being so open and honest about your experience 🖤
Hi Hank!!! I have been watching you since early high school! And I’m now halfway through medical school and actually on surgical oncology rotation. So coming across your recent journey has been very impactful to say the least. You helped me understand soooo much over the last decade that I genuinely consider you a big part of my own journey to be where I finally am today (finally in medical school to be a doctor). Not only me but every single one of my friends, and your entire UA-cam community! Literally. I personally think having that great of an impact on someone’s life is one of life’s greatest experiences. A Very uniquely individualized personal impact to every single one of us. I personally think that is one of life’s greatest experiences - to make such an impact on someone’s life/journey. (Hence why I want to become a doctor). Anyways, you are a part of mine! It so incredibly admirable how you continue to be yourself no matter what you’re going through AND sharing it with us. 🎈 I am very very hopeful for you, Hank. 😇 I know you can do it.
“All great things must first bestride the earth in frightening and monstrous masks in order to inscribe themselves in the heart of humanity.” - Friedrich Nietzsche
Thank you for all the videos detailing your journey, I didn't know much about chemo but have learnt a lot from you, both about the process and the daily effects. You have been amazing thoroughout this Hank, like seriously incredible.
You got this Hank, people believe in you, wishing you the best
You'd know better than else how cancer kills.
Also ricin.
bruh. how are you everywhere
You’re God damn right.
Cheers to Hank who showed us a small glimps of what he has been going though. We can't go though it with him, we can only be passive bystanders. But he still wanted to do what he loves doing, educating people, being busy as he can be. But he also had to draw some hard boundrys and that in and of itself can be hard. So just big props to him for allowing us to see this small glimps into his health journey. Here's to hoping that things get better, or at last progress is made.
Dude, you have been a trooper through this so far and you are doing great, we're all rooting for you. 😊
Thanks for the update, Hank. Thinking of you and sending love to you and your family. ❤️😘
Hank, I love you man. On a personal level you've positively impacted my life. & as a nurse that worked years in oncology I commend you for sharing your experience. My heart goes out to you & yours.
thank you for updating us! you got this hank, and you’re halfway there. It’s gonna feel worth it after you’re done!
I rarely comment because you have so many people that follow and love you. But Hank, you are amazing. I’ve had chemo, but not for cancer and I’m on a biologic and have been sick for seven weeks too. I have chronic illness and a cute illness, so I can totally relate. But your honesty, your vulnerability, your optimism, and and your straightforwardness are amazing. And both you and John, in your approach to all of us as friends and people who care about you is just beyond my understanding. Many people would focus on themselves, and become very introspective and in word, and only with their immediate family but you’ve shared this with us. I hope it’s giving you strength. I hope you feel our love and our support and I admire you. And that’s coming from a 66-year-old woman take care Hank and get well.
Thank you for doing these. I can't imagine the effort it takes now, but learning about it somehow makes it ever so slightly less scary for me. Thank you so much, and I'm hoping you both feel better and heal soon.
Love all of this. Currently in the "frequent follow-up" (constant panic) phase myself. I'm also finishing up my final year of medical school, and I'm planning to pursue hematology-oncology. :) I have been an avid vlogbrothers fan since high school, and your crashcourse biology videos were what made me love science. Sending you so much love and support; you've been really brave through all of this and will be on the other side soon!
Hoping everything goes smoothly for you as well! Congrats on both beating it and getting through med school.
Well done buddy. 👏
Best wishes from Ireland 🇮🇪
Just here to join!
Get well soon Hank, love from Italy! 🇮🇹
Thanks for sharing with us, Hank! Definitely not required but we all love hearing from you and how you’re doing. Sending positive vibes your way!!
I've watched you guys for years and always appreciated your direct approach to information. I could always trust you two to tell me the facts that you knew. I have also gained a lot of personal respect for you as I got my own cancer diagnosis and began chemo myself. You don't know me, but it's nice to have an old friend going through this with me. Thanks for sharing your journey.
As a chronically ill person I know (to some extent) how it is to be monitoring symptoms and not knowing which ones are important and what they might mean. And I know how horrible it is to lose mental capacity and clarity, especially when you're someone who values their academic abilities. It is so deeply frustrating.
You have all my love and empathy. You are rocking this. You are surviving. You are not lazy. Your body is working SO god damn hard right now! And you must be feeling so many different emotions too which is also a lot of work. Please be kind to yourself.
And feel your feelings, I am bad at this I like to logic my way out of it. I identify my feelings and talk about them but I don't let myself feel them, and you dont work through them that way longterm, they get repressed and eventually bubble up at much less convenient times than if you let yourself feel them in the first place. This is a big and scary thing you are going through.
I had never thought about dealing with emotions that way. I also logic my way through emotions a lot of the time. I'm great at analizing, talking about, journaling about what I'm going through and why. And then I wonder why the dsrned emotions don't go away. I hadn't considered that logicing them is not necessarily the same as feeling them. Thank you. I appreciate your pointing out that.
@anyascelticcreations you are very welcome! I had to do lots and lots of therapy before being able to understand it myself so I'm always happy to share the insights! I suspect a lot of vlogbrothers subscribers are the same way in terms of being very good at logic but not good at feeling the feelings (most people aren't good at it, because it sucks)
@@Rose-jz6sx I suspect you're right. And feeling them enough to see what they are isn't always the same as truly and fully feeling them. I suspect that a lot of us think/thought that feeling them enough to analyze them counts. I guess it does. But maybe we would benefit from allowing ourselves to feel them more. 🙏
@@anyascelticcreations this is it!
Thank you so much for trying to create honest depictions of what chemo is like, I think it's important that accurate resources like this be available for anyone who is going through something similar. I wish for a swift alleviation in your symptoms, Hank.
Hey Hank I had 2a Hodkins too. I got done with chemo about 6 months before you started. The rebuilding is hard but way better than chemo. You're doing great man.
Crazy how relatable this is for anyone who has gone through something similar. Thank you for sharing, Hank!
Thank you so much for giving us the privilege to see your updates and see you in such a vulnerable position. Your videos have helped me understand my mother more and what she went through while battling her cancers, she's 5 years in remission now. You've got this, you are freaking awesome and we are all so lucky to have you. Sending healing energy and positive thoughts your way🙏🏽💗
+
I got COVID very early (late Feb or early March 2020) and never really recovered - these videos have meant a lot to me. When you said you wanted to keep making things, I did not expect such thoughtful, vulnerable, and instructive content about your health journey and the ... sociology (??) of how we think/talk about serious health conditions. The sincerest thanks for sharing with us, and I hope the scans, continued treatment, and your general wellbeing are all as positive and smooth as possible going forward.
I can't thank you enough for these videos. My wife is going through the exact treatment and the exact same timing as you. To view this from a third person person perspective is heart breaking but your video is an incredible insight. I have watched all of them in regards to your condition. Just thank you.
Hey Hank! As a fellow cancer patient (grade II astrocytoma), congrats on finishing chemo! I hope your radiation goes well and you tolerate it well. I *personally* did not have any issues with my 30 days of radiation post-op, the whole process of in-and-out was very easy and the staff, nurses, and doctor were all wonderful! I hope it is the same for you.
I just wanted to say that I love that you highlighted that cancer is not always as binary as it seems. I was diagnosed in summer of 2021, had the resection done in the fall of 2021, and then started radiation (30 days) and chemo (TMZ for 15 months). I finished the chemo at the beginning of this year, and my scans have come up clear, but I'm still not in the clear. Because the tumor was located in my brain, seizures are very common and lifelong. So now that they've got the cancer in remission (incurable unfortunately), we're focusing on seizure management. And boy, does it suck.
Last month I had 11 seizures in my sleep. I'm not allowed to drive, I can't go back to work because having a seizure at work would be bad for everyone involved (I worked in a kitchen). I'm only 29 and, even in the VERY unlikely event this cancer never comes back, my life is changed forever. I'll most likely be on disability for the rest of my life, but I've made my peace with that.
It's just refreshing to hear someone with your influence speak about how cancer is often more than just a "you have it or you don't" illness.