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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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From diagnosis to newfound strength

In 2008, Sandra Evans was told the crushing news that would be every mother’s worst nightmare. Her four-year-old child had blood cancer.

  • Leukaemia
  • Support services
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You helped Meg connect with others when she felt isolated

Finding out you have a serious disease can be an isolating time. But thanks to your heartfelt generosity, Meg’s blood cancer experience has been full of support from people who understand.

  • aplastic anaemia
  • Myelodysplastic syndromes
  • Support services
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Meg with her husband, Jacob

Talking Blood Cancer: Empowering patients

In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Maryanne Skarparis welcomes Angela Daly, a Senior Social Worker at the Sunshine Coast University Hospital, and they discuss the challenges faced by patients diagnosed with blood cancer. Giving insights into her role in helping patients and their families navigate the complex healthcare system.

  • Support services
  • Treatments and side-effects
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Talking Blood Cancer: Journey through two diagnoses

In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Maryanne Skarparis invites Alex Wilson to share his journey navigating the healthcare system following a diagnosis of blood cancer. Alex candidly discusses his experiences, offering insights into the practical challenges and emotional responses at the time of his diagnosis, especially as a young adult.

  • Support services
  • Treatments and side-effects
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Prue and Chase

Chase's story highlights the limited access to healthcare professionals and services forcing blood cancer patients from regional Australia to travel long distances for treatment and care.

  • Acute myeloid leukaemia
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Chase in hospital

Talking Blood Cancer: Overcoming leukaemia during COVID

In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Kate Arkadieff speaks with Eve Cossette about her experience with a diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). Diagnosed during the height of COVID-19 while living far from her family in Canada, Eve's journey offers insights into both the physical and emotional challenges of facing blood cancer.

  • Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
  • Support services
  • Treatments and side-effects
Read more


Last updated on October 24th, 2023

Developed by the Leukaemia Foundation in consultation with people living with a blood cancer, Leukaemia Foundation support staff, haematology nursing staff and/or Australian clinical haematologists. This content is provided for information purposes only and we urge you to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis, treatment and answers to your medical questions, including the suitability of a particular therapy, service, product or treatment in your circumstances. The Leukaemia Foundation shall not bear any liability for any person relying on the materials contained on this website.