Inspirational Stories

As a popular entertainment anchor on the “Good Day LA” morning show in Los Angeles, Amanda Salas has always kept busy. But after she was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in June 2019, she has had to refocus all her energy and time on fighting for her life.

Amanda started aggressive treatment immediately after her diagnosis, enduring six rounds of 24/7 chemotherapy that required her to be connected to a machine. Despite experiencing side effects such as excruciating mouth stores and extreme fatigue, Amanda never lost her positive attitude and zest for life. She even held a “buzz party” when she had to cut off all her hair. Amanda refers to this time as a “chemotional rollercoaster.”

Amanda credits The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) for providing her with support and inspiration throughout her cancer experience. Through her participation in Light The Night, she raised an incredible $50,000 for LLS over the past year – the majority of which she raised while going through treatment – to make an impact in the fight against blood cancer. “I’ve learned you have to embrace every stage of the cancer journey, and I’m so grateful LLS has been there for me,” she says.

Today, Amanda is cancer-free and had her port removed in July. Passionate about paying it forward, she is back in the spotlight on TV and continues to shine a light on the urgent need for blood cancer cures. As a dedicated LLS volunteer, she gives generously her time and talent to drive forward our mission in her community and help lift up patients and families. “The people I’ve met at LLS inspired me to join the local board and keep fighting for a cure,” says Amanda. “They continue to check in on me and encourage me along the way.” Because of extraordinary volunteers like Amanda, LLS is closer to our goal: a world without blood cancer.