Staying Strong: William’s Commitment to Staying Active Through Lymphoma
In 2018, William Walker booked an appointment with a respiratory physician to investigate recurring respiratory infections. What he thought was a routine check-up turned into something much more serious. A CT scan of his chest and blood tests revealed signs of possible lymphoma. A further scan in March 2019 confirmed widespread lymphoma, and after a biopsy, he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s follicular B-cell lymphoma.
William was placed on “watch and wait,” a period where treatment isn’t immediately necessary, but the condition is closely monitored. It was during this time that he happened to be in Sydney for work. A colleague mentioned a Lymphoma Australia lecture the following day, and William, along with his wife, attended. Listening to experts Judith Troteman and Wolfgang Hiddemann, he gained insight into lymphoma treatments across different countries. The experience was informative but also overwhelming, so much information, so many questions.
Facing Treatment Head-On
In May 2021, William began his first cycle of treatment: Rituximab and Bendamustine. The fatigue hit hard. He had always been an active person, and the thought of slowing down was difficult to accept. Determined to keep moving, he continued cycling as best as he could. Outdoor rides became too exhausting, so he switched to an indoor smart trainer, pushing himself whenever his body allowed.
Exercise became his anchor. Even on treatment days, he found a way to keep moving. The oncology unit was on the second floor, but William took the stairs to the sixth, twice, before heading in for treatment. He had read about the benefits of exercise during cancer treatment and was determined to stay as strong as possible.
Despite his best efforts, the treatment took a toll. After the second cycle, working became too much, and he had to take sick leave. The long hours providing technical surgical support for sports orthopaedic procedures were draining, and he realised he needed to prioritise his health.
The Challenges Along the Way
Fatigue was a constant battle, not just during treatment but well after. Eight weeks post-treatment, William returned to work, believing he was ready. In hindsight, he sees it was too soon. Long hours left him exhausted, but he pushed through, just as he had on his bike.
In July 2022, he contracted COVID-19 after attending a work training conference. The virus hit him hard. Diagnosed on a Tuesday, he was admitted to the COVID ward at Calvary Hospital in North Canberra, where he spent six days alone, unable to leave his room except for radiology scans. It was a stark reminder of how much his immune system had been affected by both the treatment and lymphoma itself.
Exercise as a Lifeline
Through everything, fatigue, treatment, and setbacks, William never lost sight of the importance of staying active. His advice to anyone facing a lymphoma diagnosis?
“Exercise, exercise, exercise.”
Whether it was riding his indoor trainer, taking the stairs at the hospital, or simply staying as mobile as possible, movement played a crucial role in his physical and mental well-being. Research supports what he experienced firsthand, staying active during and after treatment helps with fatigue, recovery, and overall health.
Post treatment and COVID, William worked on his endurance and can now ride 100ks, with two different cycling groups.
Moving Forward
Today, William is in remission. He still feels the impact of his experience, particularly when it comes to his energy levels. But he remains committed to staying active, not just for his body but for his mind.
His journey with lymphoma wasn’t easy, but through it all, he found strength in movement. And for anyone going through something similar, his message is clear: keep moving, in whatever way you can.
