Inspirational Stories

First, I must express appreciation to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) for providing educational resources, knowledge, and financial assistance to those of us affected by blood cancer. LLS spotlights blood cancer and gives a voice to so many like myself. Thank you. As a way to show my support to LLS and to raise awareness, I have raised $210 in September 2023, Blood Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM), via Facebook. This is just the beginning of my advocacy. 

On April 9, 2022, after weeks of dealing with inexplicable symptoms, I was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). My life forever changed. Upon my initial induction, I was treated with 7+3 followed by three separate Hi-DAC treatments. I achieved remission for a little under a year, but unfortunately, my disease would return. I immediately began outpatient chemotherapy as my oncology team searched for a donor. 

As I write to you, I am currently an inpatient at Wellstar MCG Health (AUMC) in Augusta, Georgia. I am currently five days post cord blood stem cell transplant. I am also the very first recipient of the newly FDA-approved omidubicel therapy in my region. I know I have a long road ahead of me, but I am oh so thankful to travel this road with the support of LLS.