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Inspirational Stories

Kate

chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)

When I went for my annual physical in 2013, my doctor called me to tell me that my bloodwork looked strange. He asked me to get it tested again to be sure of the result. I did not have any symptoms at all. Within a week, I was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), something I'd never heard of. I had no idea what this would mean. It took me a while to find the right oncology team, but once I did, they were amazing. After lots of tests (including a bone marrow biopsy), I was started on medication, at a low dose, because I'm a pretty small person. Over the years, it has gotten me into remission, and I'm happy to say that I've stayed there. Now, I only get bloodwork twice a year, and my oncologist calls me "Miracle Lady.” I'm lucky to have a wonderful, supportive partner, son, and lots of other family and friends. Through all of this, I've been a working musician; I'm a singer/songwriter/bassist, front my band, and release albums and singles. I consider myself to be extremely fortunate. 

I hope to volunteer with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) at some point in the future. I always encourage people to donate because I know that their research yields amazing new medications that save lives like mine. 
 

middle aged white woman with long brown hair wearing and orange tank and jeans with a guitar on her lap sitting in a garden