Monday, August 4, 2014

What Your Friend(s) With Cancer Want You To Know

Great article! It talks about things that most cancer parents want to say but don't because we are afraid. There are several things mentioned that I have wanted to say but have not. 

I also see this article as being an example of how cancer can change your life in ways you may never think of.

#raisingawareness #childhoodcancer #prayforlexi #readnow 


What Is Leukemia? Clip From ABC Family's 'Chasing Life'

I have been watching the new TV show, 'Chasing Life' on ABC Family Channel. It is about the life of a newly diagnosed cancer patient, April who has been diagnosed with a rare form of Leukemia called AML - Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

'Chasing Life' has actually become one of my new favorite TV shows. However, being a cancer Mom & a non-googling Mom, at times it is hard for me to watch. During some scenes I have to remind myself that it's just a TV show. Some of the things you see are real, some are not & some are edited for audience pleasure.

Sometimes I even have to watch it alone...just in case I get overly emotional.

I also have to remind myself that April & Lexi have two completely different diagnosis's which come with many different treatments, different side effects, different prognosis's and a wide array of problems once treatment is over. 

FYI: To be considered CURED of cancer a patient must be cancer free for 5 years post treatment. At St. Jude, this is called becoming a 'St. Jude Alumn' :)

I have learned that even though I understand more about Leukemia than I ever thought possible (& am still learning new things every day & at every single clinic visit) it is hard to explain to others exactly what Leukemia is. I've also learned that as much as I try to help people understand, some people simply just don't get it. 

So, when I came across this clip in an episode of 'Chasing Life,' I wanted to share. It is an excellent description & explanation of exactly what Leukemia is inside the body. 



Listen to Uncle George explain what Leukemia is & tune in to 'Chasing Life' on ABC Family Channel every Tuesday at 9:00 p.m. following Pretty Little Liars!!!