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Real stories

Stories from people living with blood cancer, their family, carers, and friends; plus research and advocacy news.

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Talking Blood Cancer Podcast: Yani on powerlifting and life after leukaemia

Learn how Yani channelled her powerlifting ability into resilience and strength during her blood cancer diagnosis.

  • Acute myeloid leukaemia
  • Support services
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Small moments are everything…almost two years after diagnosis

After two intense years of treatment for acute myeloid leukaeamia, Em Meades has a newfound appreciation for the small but important moments in life. This is part four of her story, in her own words

  • Acute myeloid leukaemia
  • Support services
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Ruth and I relaxing at our friend's 30th birthday in February 2025. I'm getting to enjoy the moments in life I would have missed.

I can’t control what I can’t control

Keeping a positive attitude and asking for help made all the difference for Em Meades during her blood cancer treatment. Along the way, she also discovered a love for chicken broth and Lego flowers. This is the third instalment of our four-part series where Em shares her story, in her own words.

  • Acute myeloid leukaemia
  • Support services
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Some days were harder than others.

Hallucinations, Disney kids and holidays in hospital

Em Meades shares her wild experiences with chemotherapy, including ketamine hallucinations, and being held hostage by "Disney kids" in part two of her story about living with a blood cancer called acute myeloid leukaemia.

  • Acute myeloid leukaemia
  • Support services
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3. Penny and I enjoyed Christmas lunch in hospital (lovingly prepared by my partner, Ruth).

I just want to confirm, it’s definitely not scurvy?

Em Meades' sense of humour and practical approach were evident throughout her blood cancer experience. This is the first of a four-part series, sharing Em's story in her own words.

  • Acute myeloid leukaemia
  • Support services
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I thought it was a virus, but it was the Big C.

Alex became a strong advocate for his own care through two cancer diagnoses over two decades

A shock diagnosis of lymphoma at 21 meant Alex Wilson was suddenly faced with big decisions about his life and even his fertility. A practical, step-by-step approach and strong support from loved ones helped him navigate his blood cancer journey.

  • Hodgkin lymphoma
  • Support services
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After receiving the all-clear in July 2024, Alex set off on his next adventure – travelling around Australia in a caravan. His trip has included a visit to Cradle Mountain in Tasmania.

Last updated on October 24th, 2023

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