Cancer Affects The People Around Us, TooCancer, more so than any other illness, makes us rely on others for help. Most of the time that means family, and whether your “family” is the one you were...Reactions0reactionsComments17 comments
The delay in growing up post cancer treatment as a young adult.Growing up is already hard, but when life throws a blood cancer diagnosis while you're still coming into your mature self; it becomes a big wrench! I am sure other...Reactions0reactionsComments13 comments
The Financial Impact of Chemotherapy and Medical Costs on the Cancer PatientCancer is one of the most expensive medical conditions to treat. Multiple types of treatment including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy administration, and hospitalization may be necessary. Compared to prior years...Reactions0reactionsComments6 comments
Tips to Feel BetterWhen you are told you have cancer, there are a few things you want to know right away. One of those questions might be, "What can be done to get...Reactions0reactionsComments22 comments
The First TimeThe first time you hear the words “You have blood cancer,” your world changes forever. The former “happy-go-lucky” person that was YOU just moments ago is now gone -- your...Reactions0reactionsComments4 comments
My Furry Purry Friend Part 2Quick recap, in the last article I was explaining how I found my cat Isis and how raising him was very tough for quite a while with his behavioral issues...Reactions0reactionsComments9 comments
Tips for Out-of-Town Appointment AnxietyRecently I headed to Mayo for a yearly visit that was postponed due to the pandemic. It had been two years since I had seen my blood cancer specialist, and...Reactions0reactionsComments12 comments
Epic, epic newsI had my 4-week appointment today with my consultant and as in all likelihood, by the time I have my next one, the baby will be here, I asked a...Reactions0reactionsComments13 comments
Humpyear - Beyond the Halfway Point“Mike...Mike...Mike...Mike...Mike...What year is it? It’s hump year.” I didn’t quote that iconic advertisement perfectly, but I’m sure you all get the point. Maybe not as good as me, considering my...Reactions0reactionsComments8 comments
Two Canes and a WheelchairOr...How I’m Rolling with Side Effects Does anyone else remember the movie, “Four Weddings and a Funeral?” Well, these days my life has become “Two Canes and a Wheelchair.” And...Reactions0reactionsComments8 comments
The Importance of Good Communications By DoctorsA good relationship with your doctor can make a difference in the treatment of your blood cancer. Good communications with your doctor can improve your ability to navigate the challenges...Reactions0reactionsComments0 comments
"Remission." That Word Has Power. Or does it?Yesterday was an auspicious date for me. Yes, it was by birthday. Which one? Well, the scientists back at MIT are still trying to work it out, but it wasn’t...Reactions0reactionsComments36 comments
Aging with Blood Cancer: You're Going to Miss Us!"OK, boomer!" is a dismissive retort, often disregarding or mocking baby boomers. Fellow baby boomers, do you remember how we would roll our eyes when our parents talked about how...Reactions0reactionsComments2 comments
Rise to the ChallengeThis month has been very challenging. To be transparent it's been hell on earth and I say that because the biggest below was losing my father this month. I have...Reactions0reactionsComments29 comments
Hitting 60 While Coping With Blood CancerMy heart feels like it’s going to beat out of my chest, as sweat drips into my eyes. My breath is laboring as I head down the last hill and...Reactions0reactionsComments30 comments
Now for Something Different: GVHD of the FingernailSince the days when I started out as a cub reporter longer ago than I care to admit, the search for information has grown both easier and harder. Easier, of...Reactions0reactionsComments8 comments
Tone Deaf to the PainI’ve been living with leukemia for a little over a decade now. To see me, you’d probably think I’m doing ok. I mean, I’m not one who likes to complain...Reactions0reactionsComments29 comments
Healthcare Team ConflictsAfter speaking with a friend who was stumped by a medical staff that was not on point in serving her, I thought further about how many people deal (if at...Reactions0reactionsComments14 comments
Recovering from RecoveryMany have asked if I have recovered from my run-in with blood cancer. My answer is a qualified YES, followed by a qualified NO. What the heck does that mean?...Reactions0reactionsComments14 comments
Tips for Bad DaysWhen you have cancer you are going to have bad days. Sometimes they are related to blood cancer treatments and appointments, but some days you may just be depressed. We...Reactions0reactionsComments14 comments