We are Stronger Together

It’s hard to believe that it’s been 7 years since my CML diagnosis (Feb. 2017).

I struggled for about six weeks with an infection that just wouldn’t go away, even after a few rounds of antibiotics, high fevers that had me bedridden for days, pain that radiated down my arm so badly that I couldn’t even lift it high enough to grab a coffee mug out of the cupboard, shortness of breath, and extreme fatigue.

After all that a follow up with my family doctor, instead of going back to the local clinic, would change my life forever.

I was told that if you were going to get cancer, this was the best one to get. It has been called the “lucky leukemia.” I don’t feel lucky and for me it has not been an easy road, I struggle daily………physically, emotionally, and mentally.

I have also dealt with a number of side effects over the years and just recently changed medications. I still have bad days, but I believe I am finally finding peace within myself.

Being told you have cancer is shocking enough, no one should ever feel alone during such an emotional time.  By sharing my story, my hope is that it will let other people know they are not alone as they face their own cancer journey.

While sharing our stories is helpful, ensuring that anyone newly diagnosed is able to get their questions answered and find the support they need is vitally important.

We are stronger together.
Amber Noden