Kim's Cousin is Cancer-Free
- Kim Kardashian West’s cousin, Cici Bussey, has battled cancer for decades and is now cancer-free; Kim celebrated the news on Instagram recently.
- Bussey battled Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, and a stem cell transplant was part of her treatment path.
- When a loved one has cancer, it’s important to take care of yourself, too, and process your emotions, so that you can be the best version of yourself to support them.
“This is a @cicibussey appreciation post! I found this pic from a trip to Mexico we took and just reminded me of what an amazing strong cousin I have so wanted to share! She is officially cancer free after a few decades battle! So proud of her! Cici's mom and my dads mom were sisters so I love going on walks reminiscing about all of the fun stories! She's just the best! I love you Cici”
Read MoreView this post on InstagramIn July, Bussey shared the news on her Instagram account, writing, “Best birthday gift ever! Cancer free and flowers!!!”
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She posted from the Stanford Cancer Institute. Bussey is the first cousin of Kardashian West’s late father, Robert Kardashian, who died of esophageal cancer.
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Cici’s Journey & Understanding Lymphoma
Bussey battled non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and a stem cell transplant was part of her treatment path, along with chemotherapy. She was diagnosed at age 40.
In 2018, her cousin Kris Jenner wrote on Instagram, “To all my amazing followers … this is one of my favorite pictures of our precious beautiful cousin Cici who we love and adore!!!! Today I am asking that you all pray for her. She has been fighting cancer for two decades and is the strongest most amazing woman I know…she is now facing the greatest challenge of her life…. A Stem Cell transplant…and I am asking you to pray for her that this procedure be successful and she makes a full recovery!!!!!”
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Lymphoma is a cancer affecting the white blood cells, and there are two common types of lymphoma: Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin. The distinction between the two lies in the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.
If doctors detect Reed-Sternberg cells in a patient, the cancer is diagnosed as non-Hodgkin (this is the more common type of lymphoma). If the cells aren't found, it is classified as Hodgkin lymphoma, which is the more treatable between the two. Lymphoma can be treated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and CAR T-cell therapy.
Treating Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
When a Loved One Has Cancer
Coping with a family member’s cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but support is available. Sometimes, talking about your feelings with a trained professional, like a psychologist or therapist, or within a safe community where others are going through the same thing, like a support group, can feel like a cathartic way to process your emotions.
Related: Dealing With Grief After a Cancer Diagnosis
When someone in your life has cancer, it’s important to take good care of yourself, too, so you can be the best, healthiest version of yourself in order to support and be there for that person. Being a cancer caregiver can be emotionally, physically, and spiritually draining be sure to also “fill your cup” so that you’re a well-rounded, healthy caregiver for your loved one.
Mental Health: Overcoming Depression
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