Sarah Esposito’s Journey through Hodgkin Lymphoma

Sarah Esposito, a lash technician from Toms River, New Jersey, faced a life-changing diagnosis after discovering a lump in her neck. For eight years, she had dedicated herself to her career in the beauty industry. However, in February 2026, everything changed.

Esposito, 26, initially attributed the lump to a kink from sleeping awkwardly. She also experienced sharp shoulder pains, assuming they were work-related. But a persistent feeling that something was amiss led her to consult a doctor.

Esposito underwent a PET scan, revealing cancerous lymph nodes and a seven-centimeter mass in her chest. In June 2026, she was diagnosed with classic Hodgkin lymphoma, a cancer affecting the lymphatic system. This cancer is most common among people in their 20s, 30s, and those over 65.

Symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma include swollen lymph nodes, fever, fatigue, night sweats, weight loss, and itchy skin. Esposito’s symptoms escalated, affecting her chest and back, especially with deep breaths.

Impact on Career and Health

The diagnosis forced Esposito to prioritize medical appointments and treatment over her job. Her oncologist advised her to step away from work due to risks connected to chemical exposure. Dr. Luke Sorrell highlighted that common workplace chemicals in her field, such as phthalates and parabens, can contribute to such health issues. Although no direct link between her work and lymphoma exists, chemical exposure remains a concern.

Treatment and Personal Choices

Prior to treatment, Esposito faced a tough decision about her future fertility. At 26, she underwent an egg retrieval process to preserve her fertility. This decision came amid coping with her cancer diagnosis, fertility appointments, and hormone injections.

Esposito began her first round of chemotherapy after completing the egg retrieval. Her treatment plan involves six cycles, posing physical and emotional challenges. Exhaustion, bone pain, and nausea became part of her routine, and hair loss added to the emotional turmoil. Ultimately, she decided to shave her head, acknowledging the importance of her appearance in her career.

Future Aspirations

Inspired by her medical journey, Esposito decided to pursue nursing. She returned to college to fulfill this goal. Documenting her journey on social media (@sarahespositoo on TikTok), she built a supportive community of others facing similar challenges.

Esposito remains focused on positivity while acknowledging the difficulties of her journey. She balances gratitude and hope with moments of frustration and grief over her pre-diagnosis life.

For more insights or to share your health concerns, contact Newsweek’s editors, Charlotte Nisbet and Tony Phillips, at [email protected].