Living with CML at 21: Amber’s Story

Amber was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) at just 21, during her final year at university. CML is a rare, lifelong blood cancer that typically affects people over 60. For years, she experienced vague symptoms — fatigue, infections, numbness, and even bleeding gums — but nothing that pointed clearly to cancer. After being referred to a haematologist for iron overload, routine blood tests and a bone marrow biopsy confirmed the diagnosis.

Starting treatment immediately, Amber faced intense side effects including vomiting, bone pain, migraines, and extreme fatigue. She had to move home to cope, but was determined to finish her degree. Despite everything, she returned to university and graduated with First-Class Honours — a symbol of her resilience and dedication, especially as she honoured her late father through her final dissertation.

Now 25, Amber continues to live with chronic side effects, particularly fatigue, which forced her to give up a place on a law course. She works part-time remotely and finds support through cancer charities, peer groups, and online communities. She’s also hopeful about trying treatment-free remission in future — not just to stop medication, but to reclaim a sense of normalcy.