Just one month ago, Jenna Ellen, a 32-year-old hairdresser and salon owner from Auckland, New Zealand, was filled with hope as she embarked on her first IVF treatment. She and her partner, Josh, were eager to start a family after being together since their teenage years. However, their dreams were abruptly interrupted when Jenna received a shocking diagnosis: stage three Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
The cancer was discovered following her first egg retrieval procedure, a routine part of the IVF process. Jenna’s world was turned upside down as she faced a life-threatening illness that was not on her radar. “This was absolutely not on my radar at all,” Jenna told the Daily Mail. “I was looking forward to conceiving and, you know, hopefully being a mum. This just completely was not on our 2025 bingo card.”
Recognizing the Warning Signs
In the weeks leading up to her IVF treatment, Jenna began noticing symptoms that she initially dismissed as normal. She experienced shortness of breath, a persistent dry cough, and a croaky voice. Working in a bustling salon, she attributed these symptoms to her environment, where she was constantly talking over hair dryers and dealing with airborne particles.
“Because I’m a hairdresser, there are often things blowing around in the air, and I’m constantly talking over a hair dryer or talking to my clients,” Jenna explained. However, the symptoms persisted and intensified, particularly after she began hormone injections for IVF.
“Even doing everyday things like taking the rubbish out, or walking up the stairs would start to leave me feeling puffed.”
Despite these signs, Jenna delayed seeing a doctor until a fertility nurse urged her to get checked. This decision led to the discovery of a large mass in her chest, confirmed by a CT scan as an 11cm diameter tumor.
Immediate Treatment and Support
Following the diagnosis, Jenna was quickly admitted to the hospital, where she underwent multiple biopsies and began treatment. The cancer was identified as stage three Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of cancer known for its higher treatability compared to others.
Jenna was started on steroids to reduce the mass and soon began chemotherapy. She also became the first person in New Zealand to try a new immunotherapy treatment for Hodgkin’s lymphoma, thanks to her comprehensive health insurance coverage.
“As far as I’ve been told, I’m the first person in New Zealand to have tried this new immunotherapy treatment for Hodgkin’s lymphoma.”
Despite the challenges, Jenna remains positive, largely due to the unwavering support of her partner Josh and her family. Josh, a construction business owner, has been by her side every step of the way, managing appointments and insurance matters.
Looking Ahead: Hope and Resilience
Jenna’s treatment is expected to continue until early 2026, with the possibility of further options like radiation if necessary. In the meantime, she has made lifestyle changes to support her recovery, including adopting a Mediterranean diet and engaging in light exercise.
While the couple’s plans to start a family are on hold, Jenna is grateful for the eight healthy embryos stored as a “safety net.” Her priority now is to focus on her health and recovery, with the hope of realizing their dream of having children in the future.
“Having kids is definitely on the back burner for the time being,” Jenna said. “But I’m very glad to already have eight healthy frozen embryos tucked away.”
Jenna’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of paying attention to seemingly minor health symptoms. Her journey underscores the resilience and strength required to navigate unexpected life challenges, with the support of loved ones playing a crucial role in the healing process.
As Jenna continues her treatment, she remains optimistic about the future, buoyed by the love and support of her family and friends. “My friends and family have kind of just wrapped me up in this big love bubble,” she shared. “The world keeps spinning. You’ve just got to carry on.”
