Every Australian facing blood cancer should feel they’re not alone
The Leukaemia Foundation encourages all Australians living with blood cancer and their loved ones to connect with a blood cancer support professional. We support and advocate for all Australians with blood cancer (including leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and other blood disorders), so more people can survive and thrive.
Call Australia’s only dedicated blood cancer support line on 1800 620 420 or submit an online request form:
Healthcare professionals can also refer a patient to us here.
Our support line is for anyone affected by blood cancer: whether you have blood cancer or had it in the past, are a carer or loved one, or have sadly lost someone to blood cancer. You’ll receive personalised help, access to the latest information and supportive care services, and a chance to join the blood cancer community.
Research confirms that access to the right information and supportive care can lead to a better quality of life and a higher chance of survival.
With 53 Australians diagnosed with blood cancer every day and incidence on the rise, we support and advocate for all Australians with blood cancer to help more people survive and thrive.
Sage
Sage was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia when he was just 22.
After receiving a bone marrow transplant – with his dad as the donor – Sage entered remission in 2017.
As a professional rugby player and the owner of a group training business, Sage has a keen understanding of the physical and mental impact of blood cancer.
If you would like support or information to explore these impacts, plus other challenges faced by people affected by blood cancer, join our free online support groups and educational webinars or contact 1800 620 420.
Garry
After an acute myeloid leukaemia diagnosis and a bone marrow transplant nearly 20 years ago, Garry realised he had to change his life once he returned home, and “find a new path”.
Garry delivers cultural training and creates positive stories and songs of his life and experiences as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander man.
He’s a firm believer in the power of positivity and hope in helping patients and survivors with the healing process.
Garry stayed at the Leukaemia Foundation’s Herston Village accommodation centre during his treatment. Find out more about our accommodation services, here. Whether you are 5 or 50 years in remission, to access information and support services on survivorship, please contact Australia’s blood cancer support line on 1800 620 420.
Emma
Emma was inspired by her son Elliott to take part in the World’s Greatest Shave earlier this year, and even went on to become Brisbane’s highest fundraiser.
Elliott was diagnosed last year with leukaemia at age 21. He’s now 13 months post-transplant.
As a haematology scientist, Emma has a keen understanding of the importance of blood cancer research into finding better treatments and improving outcomes for patients.
If you are a carer and would like to access emotional and practical support for you, please contact Australia’s blood cancer support line on 1800 620 420.
Sabrina
Sabrina’s sister, Summer, was diagnosed with both acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and acute myeloid leukaemia in early 2020.
Despite Sabrina being a 100% match and donating her stem cells to Summer, sadly Summer died in March 2021.
Although her story has a devastating end, Sabrina remains hopeful that blood cancer outcomes will improve in the future.
If you’ve lost someone to blood cancer, you can access a variety of our free grief and bereavement services across Australia. Contact Australia’s blood cancer support line on 1800 620 420 or find out more here.
Connect with the blood cancer community
We’re here for you. There are many ways to connect and find support.
On Friday, 30 September, we asked all Australians impacted by blood cancer to come together with their loved ones to Light the Night at home.
Information about 2023’s event will be posted soon; learn more at the official Light the Night website.
Our private Facebook groups give you a chance to share your experiences with others who have the same diagnosis. Groups are moderated by Leukaemia Foundation staff, who have backgrounds in support and allied health. Learn more about our Facebook groups and our other online communities here.
Our online support groups are facilitated by experienced Blood Cancer Support Coordinators in a private, safe and supportive environment. They are an opportunity to meet other people living with blood cancer, share personal stories, exchange information, and learn healthy coping strategies.  We offer general blood cancer, carers, young adult, men’s and bereavement support groups. Call Australia’s Blood Cancer Support line on 1800 620 420 and ask about our support groups.
The Leukaemia Foundation would like to thank the following organisations supporting Blood Cancer Month:
