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Janie is
Blood Cancer United

Janie, a young white woman who is bald wearing a black shirt and a white speckled cardigan being kissed by a young white woman with long blond hair wearing a black hoodie both sitting on a couch

My name is Janie, and I was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) almost one year ago at 37 years old. I am married with two children and am so happy to be alive today. My story is unique, as is everyone’s; however, mine is special because my sister ended up being my 10/10 identical match, and she saved my life via transplant. I was transplanted on Aug 10, 2024, and so lucky to be home for Thanksgiving. I made it mandatory that we take family photos as family is and always has been so important to me. The photo I am sending you is of me and my sister (my donor). This was the last photo of the photo session and was not planned at all. However, this may be one of the most beautiful and most powerful photos of my life. I hope this photo inspires others as much as it does me and my family.

Janie

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

We are Blood Cancer United.

Everyone affected by blood cancer—patients, survivors, caregivers, researchers, advocates, fundraisers, everyone—has a story. Share yours.
Image of Minerva, an AML Survivor

Minerva

AML Survivor

Two people sit close together in a cozy room decorated with bright pink flower murals, their bodies angled toward one another in quiet support. The soft lighting, comfortable chairs, and small box of tissues on the armrest create a gentle, intimate atmosphere—reflecting the tenderness, strength, and deep compassion shared by families and friends whose lives have been touched by blood cancer.

Claire

Family member and supporter/donor

Gabriele Papa, AML

Gabriele

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

in memory Young child sitting outdoors and looking toward the camera while being held by an adult. The child is wearing a light-colored outfit and a large white bow headband. This photo supports a pediatric blood cancer story, highlighting childhood blood cancer awareness, family support, and the experiences of children affected by leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood cancers.

Maria

Family member, caregiver, supporter

Snapshot of Anna in her graduation gown, a cancer survivor

Anna

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Close-up portrait of a blood cancer patient lying in a hospital bed wearing a patterned hospital gown. The patient has a shaved head, likely related to cancer treatment, and looks directly at the camera. Medical bedding and a hospital setting are visible in the background, illustrating the realities of blood cancer treatment, hospitalization, and survivorship.

Alana

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Portrait of a young person smiling toward the camera while seated indoors. The image reflects strength, hope, and life beyond a blood cancer diagnosis, highlighting the impact of blood cancer support and advocacy.

Lauryn

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

inspirational-story-blood-cancer-sarah.png

Sarah

myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Two supporters pose in front of a Blood Cancer United fundraising event backdrop, helping raise awareness and support for blood cancer patients, survivors, and families. The image highlights community involvement, philanthropy, and advocacy efforts that advance blood cancer research, patient services, and hope for those affected by blood cancer.

Doug

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Snapshot of parents and three children, Abby caregiver story

Abby

acute myeloid leukemia (AML) caregiver

Two people are sitting close together indoors near a window. One person is wearing a dark top, and the other is wrapped in a purple and black patterned blanket. The background shows part of a beige wall and a window frame with daylight coming through.

Kelsey

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Liam smiling-sitting on a hospital bed in a diaper-chemo port taped to his chest-bald from treatment

Liam

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is now Blood Cancer United. Learn more.