Inspirational Stories

I am 56 years old and a proud 16-year survivor of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). The journey has been filled with struggles, instability, emotional ups and downs, coupled with chronic pain throughout the day and into the night. The things that have strengthened me the most are my faith in God, my family, dear friends, my church, and other survivors who gave me hope and extended themselves to me as advisers, also, prayer partners and sounding boards during moments of sheer frustration. I met the love of my life during my second year of chemo, something I thought could never happen! We were married in 2013, and he is still my very best friend and a true blessing in my life. I've spent a lot of time at churches or public events where I've been invited to serve as an emcee or host to share my story and encourage others who are dealing with any form of cancer to stay hopeful and surround themselves with positivity. I also urge people to seek treatment and medical advice immediately. I am grateful for organizations like The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) that have helped me through a life-changing experience. Anytime I can serve to be an advocate for others, I am always ready and willing!