I was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in the fall of 2019 during a routine physical. It took a few weeks to confirm the type of leukemia, and that few weeks were a difficult time for me and my wife. Once the diagnosis was complete, the learning process began. We were recommended to see Dr. Michael Choi at the Moores Cancer Center at the University of California San Diego (UCSD). Dr. Choi immediately put us at ease by letting us know that this was a wait-and-see scenario. But that wasn’t good enough. My daughter-in-law, Dr. Ariel Portera, is a functional medicine DO at UCSD, and she immediately began to dig into strategies to make sure the “wait” process was as long as possible. She found a study about a patient in England who had a similar type of CLL. He was very successful in lowering his white blood cell (WBC) count by adopting a strict pescatarian diet. No meat except for fish and shrimp. No alcohol, no cigars, no sugar, no processed foods, minimal dairy, and absolutely no junk food. Additionally, I take supplements including AG1, vitamin D, plant-based protein, and EGCG (green tea extract). This was all on top of my regular exercise routine. In just 30 days, my WBC count dropped 33%. It was amazing, but the diet is extremely difficult to maintain. I found that, when I faltered and fell off the diet, my WBC count increased. When I got back on the diet and exercise routine, the WBC count dropped. I just read the book “N of 1” about someone who eliminated CLL from his body completely by sticking to a similar diet. Now, I’m convinced I can do the same, and the diet and exercise routine is a part of who I am.
In addition to my cancer journey, I was very fortunate to become involved with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) now Blood Cancer United and the community. I was a candidate in the Visionary of the Year campaign and fortunate to be able to assist and lead as Chair of two campaigns.
Today is June 2025, and I have received no treatment. I truly believe it’s because of the diet, supplements, exercise, and the incredible support of Dr. Choi and my amazing daughter-in-law, Dr. Ariel Portera.
Jay
chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
