On January 4th, 2022, Julie was diagnosed with Stage III/IV Classic Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Julie learned of her possible diagnosis thru a CT scan after visiting Prairie Lakes Hospital's ER with shortness of breath in December of 2021. Results of the CT scan revealed several swollen lymph nodes throughout her chest and neck area along with a large mass pressing on her trachea resulting creating difficulty breathing. Julie was then referred to Sanford ENT where they suggested she have a biopsy completed. The results came back from her biopsy as Classic Hodgkin's Lymphoma Nodular Sclerosis Subtype. After much prayer Julie has chosen Dr. Conklin as her oncologist thru Avera Oncology in Aberdeen, SD.

Julie met with the Oncologist, Dr. Conklin, on January 19th where he ordered additional testing to determine what stage Julie's cancer was at, the course of treatment and if she was healthy enough to even start treatment. Julie completed her bone marrow biopsy, pet scan (shows where the cancer is), pulmonary functions test (breathing and lungs), echocardiogram (to see the condition of her heart), MRI ( for an enlarged spleen) and additional blood work.

Dr. Conklin along with a team of specialists from Avera McKennan in Sioux Falls, SD informed us the best option going forward would be 6 months chemotherapy, every two weeks. She will also be receiving immunotherapy and an injection - used to treat neutropenia (low white blood cells). On February 8th, Julie had her portacath placement (an access placed in her chest that chemo will be administered through).

February 9th, Julie received her first round of chemotherapy in Aberdeen .

We will continue to update throughout Julie's journey.

There has been an account (Julie Mielitz's Cancer Fund ) established at Dacotah Bank to help Julie and Eugene with expenses not covered by insurance. Donations will be able to be made to that account from any Dacotah Bank location. A GoFund me account has also been created for those wishing to donate that way.