Hi to everyone battling CML and their caregivers,
We did it!
It has been ten years since I was diagnosed with CML at age 56. I was the manager of the Red Cross unit in Asheville, N.C. which had included a Regional Blood Bank, I was feeling great and doing lap swimming at the local YMCA each week, and I could not later believe what I asked the Hematologist when he gave me the news.
"Doctor, are sure that is my blood test as I am feeling too good to be sick?"
It was indeed my test results, and I like others who are notified, I then attempted to learn as much as possible about the disease. Thankfully, I found this web site in addition to the Leukemia Society's web site that was able to assist me in my journey.
I was one of the original patients on the STI571 (later called Gleevec} drug trials at Johns Hopkins Hospitals after Interferon totally failed to slow down the disease at another Center. The journey has not always been level, including a later battle with prostate cancer, but it has been interesting and challenging.
I've met some great medical professionals at three Comprehensive Cancer Centers, consulted medical professionals at other locations, met many who have been challenged with cancer along with their caregivers, friends have stepped forth to offer their encouragement, my faith has become much deeper (if you do not have a religious background, I would encourage you to at least explore the possibility that God does exist with powers greater than you can possible imagine), and of course my family who has been with me every step of the way.
If it sounds that I am enthusiastic about life, I am. There is always something interesting that can be learned, volunteering helps you as much as it helps others, and if you start to get discouraged you know that there are others somewhere in the world who are worse off than yourself. My wife/partner and I were even fortunate enough to take an extended trip to Alaska a few years ago.
While CML cannot yet be eliminated (even those who have a BMT sometimes experience the return of CML), Gleevec and some of the newer drugs can at least keep the disease "under control" for most people. I fully anticipate that a true cure will be developed sometime in the future.
Best wishes and prayers to all those who have been touched by cancer.
Ken -- a cancer survivor.
