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Round II Tuesday, August 25, 2009 6:53 PM

Room with a view at PMH.

Generally, I try to write little about my personal life on my blog, so I've been debating whether or not to post this. However, it's already affected my blog and will continue to affect how this blog will be over the next few months so hopefully I can use this to bring some awareness to the things I am and will be experiencing instead.

For those of you that have been following this blog, you'll know I've complained about some aches, pains, and fatigue. I don't know if all of it is related, but it turned out to be a lot bigger then that. At the beginning of August I was admitted into hospital where I proceeded to stay for two weeks (the reason I missed the Little City launch party -- the online shop is now open though!).

After numerous tests & biopsies, I ended up being diagnosed with a type of lymphoma. Most of you don't know this, but I'm already a childhood cancer survivor -- also a lymphoma. In fact, it seemingly looks like the same type of lymphoma, but the doctors are treating it as an entirely new case and not a relapse. They keep harping on the rarity of my case, and I'm not sure if that makes me feel better or worse. There's not much I can do but follow the plan, complete the rounds of chemotherapy, and hope for the best.

I haven't lost my interest in fashion or blogging, but posting will continue to be slow. I live mostly in pajamas and lounging around clothes these days (which I just realized I have very little of) and dream about the day I feel well enough to don tights & dresses again. Hopefully, once I feel stronger things will pick up around here again.

Before I end this, I wanted to thank a few bloggers who have been nothing short of wonderful. They've given me a lot of support over the last few weeks. K-Line, who has been checking on me every few days to see how I've been doing ever since I started complaining about feeling unwell. Sydney of Sydney Delicious, who saved me from hospital food by bringing yummy kalbi beef on rice that she made herself. The ladies from What's On the Outside..., Diana & Nathalie; they sent such a great care package. Monika, of Oh! The Light Today, who despite travelling through Korea still managed to find time to send emails. And of course, Delphine, although I have no idea if she reads this blog. These bloggers have been nothing short of amazing to me, and so have my friends & family. Thank you, thank you.

tags: life

Comments (77)

K-Line | 2009-08-25 07:20 PM | Reply

Y: I'm so pleased you decided to talk about this really important matter on your blog. The path from illness to wellness is fraught with unknowns and fear and aches and pains and you have so many friends out there that care tremendously about you. We want to be there with you and for you as you face the ups and downs each day or each week - or however often you have the energy to write. If we can learn more about cancer and its treatments, so much the better. Love, Kxo

Kate | 2009-08-25 07:35 PM | Reply

thinking of you and sending lots of positive thoughts and love your way. xo. feel better.

Fruchtzwerg | 2009-08-25 08:00 PM | Reply

Dear Yulanda, I wish you all the best to get through this tough time and all the strength that you will survive. It's very brave of you to share this with your readers.
I know that your family and friends will support you in every way they can do it.

I'm sorry that I didn't check on you earlier but as you lost your interest to blog about fashion, I kind of lost mine too. If you ever need somebody to talk to, please contact me.

*bighugs* for a wonderful and special girl!

atomica | 2009-08-25 08:49 PM | Reply

i hope you feel better and better..
:(

Sydney | 2009-08-25 09:04 PM | Reply

Looking forward to our baking party! I'm itching to bake some yummy cupcakes for us. :)

greenjeans | 2009-08-25 09:24 PM | Reply

Hang in there! And don't worry about those recs, you have way more important stuff to take care of. If you want anything from China/Tokyo, please, just drop me a line, it'd be my pleasure!

the_kitten | 2009-08-25 09:33 PM | Reply

Get better soon!!!

Anna | 2009-08-25 09:37 PM | Reply

Thank you for having the courage to share this with us. I am sending you many best wishes and positive thoughts at this trying time.

love and huge hugs,
Anna

Michelle | 2009-08-25 09:54 PM | Reply

I really hope you beat this thing! Please get better soon.

Lexie | 2009-08-25 10:44 PM | Reply

oh my gosh, yulanda. i will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Tiff | 2009-08-25 11:42 PM | Reply

I am so sorry to hear about this. I rarely post, but I read your blog religiously, and you inspire me with your outfits and wonderful photography. Please know that there are many of us lurkers out here in internet-land wishing you a speedy and easy recovery. Take very good care of yourself, and get well soon.

Kitty | 2009-08-25 11:56 PM | Reply

I'm a first time poster here, but a long time lurker. I just wanted to tell you that I am so sorry to hear this. Your sense of style and your photography really inspire me, and I just wanted to let you know that I am wishing you a fast recovery. Take care of yourself, and stay strong. There are a lot of people out here rooting for you.

Amelia | 2009-08-26 12:26 AM | Reply

Oh my gosh. I'm really glad you decided to update us on this. I was definitely afraid that you had lost interest. I would give my standard "I hope you feel better" comment, but that seems more appropriate for a cold than for a serious illness. I really do hope everything works out, though.

Michael | 2009-08-26 12:51 AM | Reply

Oh, man! Not cool! You are such the trooper! I want you to be back on your feet ASAP. I miss your self styled photos :(

I'm glad that you're still into fashion. I think this just shows how much you really are into it. I totally understand your lack of "lounging around clothes." I go into stores and it never even occurs to spend money on clothes that I wouldn't wear out.

I think we all just need to pitch in and get you some Dolce PJs :P Kick this things ass with some pointed toe stilettos (although I don't know if that's really your style??)!!!

PS. I have a friend who is a nurse at PMH. Her name is Madhu. Let me know if you run into her!

Thalia | 2009-08-26 02:26 AM | Reply

You ve been missed!!!
Hope it all goes well and you are up and running ASAP!!!!

Big hug and kiss!!!!

vic | 2009-08-26 04:06 AM | Reply

I don't comment often, but I just wanted to say that I hope you get better soon and that the blogging world is thinking of you. x

Audrai | 2009-08-26 04:52 AM | Reply

My best wishes are with you, and I hope you will find happiness no matter what you do in life, blogging or no. Thank YOU for all the happiness you've given to me and everyone else through this blog!

felice | 2009-08-26 04:56 AM | Reply

hope you get better really soon!

Yasemin | 2009-08-26 06:01 AM | Reply

real life is hard. Everyone is going through phases on their own. I believe you're now giving your test. I also believe that good times come after the bad. Don't lose your faith, try to be well and happy. Then everthing might change magically.Love,

Madlen | 2009-08-26 06:31 AM | Reply

I hope you get better really soon! ♥

Lisa | 2009-08-26 06:52 AM | Reply

Another long-time lurker here.

I hope everything works out for you, and it passes as soon as possible. I can't imagine how difficult it must be; but it's inspiring you're still holding in there and focusing more on your interests than your illness.

Like Kitty said, we're all rooting for you.

Ambroisine | 2009-08-26 07:07 AM | Reply

I don't know what to say.. It affects me a lot even if I don't know you personally.
Take care and be strong, I'm sending you all my love.

diane | 2009-08-26 07:38 AM | Reply

don't know what to say, I am so sorry!
I will be thinking strongly about you (can we say that in english?)
I wish you to find all the strength you need! (i know a little about spending long time in hospital)
xo

Lacey Starr | 2009-08-26 09:21 AM | Reply

I'm so sorry to hear that you're unwell. I hope your treatment is a breeze and you're back on your feet in no time. I hope you'll continue to post updates on your status.

Andee Nero | 2009-08-26 09:26 AM | Reply

Long time reader, first time commenter.
Couldn't hold back though after reading that. You've been one of my inspirations as a blogger for some time now and it kinda breaks my heart to hear that horrible news. I hope you find the strength to overcome.
xoxo
andee nero

Anh | 2009-08-26 09:46 AM | Reply

I'm sorry to hear about your condition. I hope you get well soon and please keep us on an update, if you don't mind.

On another note, that is a tough decision to make whether to post about your personal life especially health (I think). I was recently ill for awhile, but didn't post about it and it took almost a month before I went back and blogged. I lost a lot of readers in the process. I'm glad you shared with us. Get stronger =)

Lauren | 2009-08-26 11:01 AM | Reply

We're all thinking of you.

Anabela | 2009-08-26 11:09 AM | Reply

You have an incredible attitude. I was so shocked to read that this was the cause of your pain. I'm not even sure that anything I can say will help, but I am hoping for the best for you. If you're at PMH you're in very good hands. Bon courage. xo

Kate | 2009-08-26 11:12 AM | Reply

Yulanda, I am so so sorry to hear this. I'm keeping you in my thoughts and wishing you a speedy recovery. I've missed your blogging, but obviously you have much bigger things to concern yourself with! The whole wide blogger world is here for you.

Diana | 2009-08-26 12:45 PM | Reply

You have so much more to offer than a good outfit, and that is why I keep reading. I really admire you and your strength, and whatever you decide to do, take care of yourself. We will always be here for you, waiting with open arms.

Kim | 2009-08-26 01:09 PM | Reply

Aw, Yulanda, I am so, so sorry to hear about this! Seeing as I've only recently started following your blog I, of course, had no idea about any of this. You're in my thoughts, and I hope your condition improves

melly | 2009-08-26 01:34 PM | Reply

I'll be keeping you in my thoughts Yulanda, be strong, get well :]

Andrea | 2009-08-26 01:34 PM | Reply

I love reading this blog and think you are a great photographer. I'm so sorry to hear about your health problems and appreciate you sharing the explanation with your readers. Looking forward to everything being back to normal soon!

frenchghosts | 2009-08-26 02:29 PM | Reply

aw, i hope you get much better!

victoria | 2009-08-26 05:11 PM | Reply

You're an amzing blogger, and I always enjoy your posts. I am sad to hear this news, and hope for the best! :) Keep blogging and doing what you love!

noeudpap | 2009-08-26 05:41 PM | Reply

Aww, I'm so sorry! I wish there was something I could do! Would you want to receive a postcard from France? Send me an email if you wish.
Take care! xoxo

LindaLove | 2009-08-26 05:47 PM | Reply

all, all, all the best wishes for you from germany. linda

Elissa | 2009-08-26 06:14 PM | Reply

I'm sorry to hear this... Good luck to you. -elissa/corduroyskirt

Nathalie | 2009-08-26 07:08 PM | Reply

Yulanda, every time I think about what you're going through i feel terrible. You're a brave girl for putting it out there, I don't know if could do the same in your position. Your positive attitude and the support of your readers will definitely send happy waves of healing your way for a speedy recovery. : )

xoxo

yvr | 2009-08-26 07:44 PM | Reply

wishing you the best and a prompt recovery. bon courage!

ambika | 2009-08-26 11:03 PM | Reply

My thoughts are with you.

Danielle | 2009-08-26 11:25 PM | Reply

Hey,

I'm back home in Canada and am only in Clarkson so if you ever need anything just email.

-D
peckham_green@yahoo.co.uk

Marie | 2009-08-26 11:33 PM | Reply

Hi Yulanda. I can't believe something like this could happen to such a great person! I always read your blog, and it was actually the first one I've ever laid my eyes on by accident, and since then I've been hooked. I've been missing your posts, and it's sad to know what has happened, but it's very courageous of you to share this important piece of personal information with us. You and your blog has inspired me to look at the world in a different way, especially fashion and photography. Out of all the blogs, you're has always been my favourite. I also really liked the look of tights when I saw you wearing it on your blog, and I love them now! I hope you recover soon, so that you can keep inspiring people like me. I know you'll get through this tough time.

Carmen | 2009-08-27 01:13 AM | Reply

I miss your posts.
Know that we are all thinking of you and wanting nothing but the best for your.

SRR | 2009-08-27 01:54 AM | Reply

I'm so sorry to hear that you're ill. I know that it is never easy to talk about something like this (close friends of mine have gone through/are going through cancer treatments), and I really applaud your courage to share this.

Much love and many hugs. My thoughts are with you, and I'm sure that bloggers and readers around the world are in your corner, cheering you on as you're fighting this battle.

My email inbox is always open if you ever feel like chatting. :-) Your blog has been a bright spot in my life, and I'd like to return the favor if I can. Buena suerte.

Mary | 2009-08-27 02:46 AM | Reply

I'm so sorry to hear about your illness. I find it admirable that you have to strength to talk about it here on your blog. I wish you all the best and hope that you feel better soon.

All my love,
Mary

eimy | 2009-08-27 04:51 AM | Reply

♡♡♡

Hannah | 2009-08-27 07:18 AM | Reply

I've never commented on your blog before, but I just wanted to say that I find it really inspiring, and accessible, even though I live in the UK. You have a great sense of style, and you take lovely photos. Lots of other people have said it better than me, but I just wanted to reiterate, I hope you feel better soon and wish you all the best.

PinkBow | 2009-08-27 09:05 AM | Reply

yulanda, i'm very sorry to hear your news, yet admire you so much that you have had the courage to share it. i will miss your photography but send prayers for your fast recovery xoxo

al | 2009-08-27 11:01 AM | Reply

I'm really sorry to hear this... it would take a lot patience, but I really hope you'll get well soon and not loose your beautiful smile.

reckless daughter | 2009-08-27 02:45 PM | Reply

well done for keeping the blogging up at all while this is going on. I appreciate your honesty. It's always hard to know how personal to get in the blog world but it is (more often than not) a very supportive community to be a part of.

that in mind. good luck with everything - I wish you a speedy recovery.

Delphine | 2009-08-27 05:15 PM | Reply

Of course I read it ;)
*hugs*
i'll reply to your e-mail tomorrow! xoxox

Leonie | 2009-08-27 06:36 PM | Reply

Yulanda, this is shocking news :( I will think about you ..
I trust you will get better soon, you are to young to be ill! The world has got a lot more for you to enjoy, you don't belong in the hospital. Well I don't know what you say.. just take care and we all think about you!

hug Leonie

janet | 2009-08-27 10:41 PM | Reply

I wish you all the best, Yulanda

Kai | 2009-08-27 11:52 PM | Reply

Yulanda, I hope everything goes well in your recovery and thank you for telling your readers about what's going on, it means a lot to the people who follow your blog like myself! I wish you the best and hope you have a quick recovery.

Alexa | 2009-08-28 12:44 AM | Reply

I think it's great that you shared this on your blog. Thanks for being so honest. I wish you all the best and hope that you recover quickly! Take care. :)

Debs | 2009-08-28 07:42 AM | Reply

I'm really sorry to hear your news, and think it was a brave (and good) move to share this on your blog - I was beginning to wonder why you'd been so quiet :(
My thoughts are with you and your family, and I wish you a full recovery. I'm sure your sunny disposition will help you no end.

Winnie | 2009-08-28 07:33 PM | Reply

Yulanda, I am so sorry to read about your news. It took real courage to tell us the reasons behind your absence and I really respect you for that. Your blog has some of the best photography and while we will miss it, your health is most definitely priority.

I know that there is nothing we can do but I do wish you a speedy recovery and that we are all thinking of you. x

Leah | 2009-08-29 04:27 AM | Reply

Hi Yulanda! It is my first time to visit your blog. I'm so impressed by how you write your little thoughts. It's unfortunate that I discover your blog during this period in your life. I know you will slow down.

But be strong and have faith. You will be in my prayers.

Heather | 2009-08-29 01:06 PM | Reply

Hi Yulanda. I've been a long time reader of your blog but I'm not sure if i've ever commented before. But I couldn't not tell you how sad I am to hear that you are sick. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers and will send positive 'feel better' vibes your way. I hope you regain your strength and get back to your old self soon! xo

Brittany | 2009-08-30 12:10 AM | Reply

I'm sending you warmth and best wishes for the speediest recovery possible. I hope you are able to feel like yourself again soon!

Eunice | 2009-08-31 03:11 AM | Reply

yulanda, i wish i could be there to visit you in person. i'll email you for details, but i want to send you a care package!
much love,
eunice

maria | 2009-08-31 06:02 AM | Reply

Sending my thoughts and prayers your way, Yulanda. Be strong always!

christina d | 2009-09-01 03:23 AM | Reply

I'm sending you strength and courage for the battle ahead. Know that we will be here reading every step of the way and we hope that you will feel better sooner, than later. xx

Heather | 2009-09-01 07:23 PM | Reply

I'm sending lots of love and good vibes to you. I'll be wishing you good health and hope that's you'll return soon. Until then stay strong!
Love love love,
Heather

Genevieve_Jane | 2009-09-03 12:59 AM | Reply

Hello Yulanda;

I've been following your blog once in a while for the last year or so, because you have such excellent style. I just wanted to say that my thoughts are with you right now, and even just from reading about your life here, I can tell you're such a strong person, you'll beat down this thing and things will be better soon. Get well soon.

gloria chik / urbanebloc.com | 2009-09-06 01:51 PM | Reply

oh my goodness - feel better Yulanda, best wishes for your healthy recovery!!!

A. | 2009-09-08 07:00 PM | Reply

I wish you the best. Be strong...

xoxo

A

annah | 2009-09-09 05:17 PM | Reply

goodness. i truly hope you get through this super super fast.

stay strong, i think you're awesome (:

annah xxxx

Michelle | 2009-09-26 05:16 PM | Reply

Just happened upon your blog today and so sorry to hear this. Just wanted to reach out and recommend a site you might like - crazysexylife.com - and there is also a community site called my.crazysexylife.com. The founder, Kris Carr, is so inspirational in the way she deals with her (untreatable) cancer. She has books and a movie as well. Thought maybe this would help - I hope so! xoxo

missmilki | 2009-09-27 08:29 AM | Reply

I'm just back from taking a break from blogging and I'm really sad to read your bad news. I hope that you will get better soon and that your treatments and your fight is not too awful. I realise how totally inadequate words are at a time like this but my thoughts are with you. Huge hugs!x
miriam

Jessica | 2009-10-18 11:09 AM | Reply

Yulanda, you're in my thoughts and I wish the best for you. I wish I could give a thousand puppies! But the puppies won't pee or poop or scratch or bite. They will be a joy to take care of!

Fashion Tidbits | 2009-12-23 09:33 AM | Reply

i'm so sorry to hear about this :( i hope you get better soon and have a speedy recovery! be strong girlie! :)

Christine | 2010-01-19 07:51 PM | Reply

Positive thoughts and prayers are being sent your way Yulanda. I read about you at K-Line and I wish you the best.

Charlyn | 2010-01-19 09:27 PM | Reply

I will send you lots of positive thoughts, Yulanda, eventhough we don't know each other. You are a true inspiration of strength and class.
Thanks to Anabela's RT on Twitter that I came across K-Line and your blog!

La Historiadora de Moda | 2010-01-20 08:02 AM | Reply

Sending you lots of positive wishes for a speedy recovery!

enc | 2010-01-21 12:06 AM | Reply

Y, I'm sorry to read this. Best of luck to you.