I was diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) when I was 28 weeks pregnant. I came into the ER with a high fever from the flu, and one routine CBC test later, had me rushed for more tests and a bone marrow biopsy to confirm leukemia.
I was transferred from an already very large and experienced hospital to another due to being pregnant. Thankfully a doctor wanted to take my case . . . two hours away.
After a month in the hospital to receive my first round of chemo, I safely delivered our son at 33½ weeks. I had 10+ doctors and nurses in my room, and countless blood products on standby, but I had a completely normal birth! Forty-five minutes after being induced, we welcomed a healthy, baby boy. He only spent three weeks in the NICU and is already caught up on all milestones six months later.
I continued and finished three more rounds of chemo with severe complications in between each round ― food poisoning, norovirus, then bacterial meningitis. It was one thing after another! I was so miserable and scared but had to keep going for my family. I have so much I want to still accomplish, experience, and see!
Now I’ve moved onto the consolidation phase of treatment on an immunotherapy bag that I can wear in a backpack. While it is its own challenge, I’m glad to be at this phase.
Since feeling better, I’ve been able to pay it forward by making care packages for teens with leukemia, and expecting moms with cancer, and fundraise for several cancer resources and research! I’ve also found a love for running and mainly fundraise by participating in races and walks.
Emily
B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL)
