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Jorge is
Blood Cancer United

wearing a pink shirt is raising a hand near the face in an outdoor setting. The background shows a beige stucco wall, a window with a dark frame, and some greenery partially visible.

I was diagnosed with chronic lymphoblastic leukemia (CLL) on September 28, 2018. I will never forget that date! I just celebrated my 71st birthday in April. How time flies. I have been doing pretty well keeping my white blood cells (WBC) in check. I get checked out about every four months. My doctor has it set up that I have my bloodwork done a week before I go in for my exam. The reason is that I like to see the blood results, and you can do this too. Check out what lab they send your blood to, and connect with them via email. They can send you your results in a matter of three days. I have been doing this for some time now, so I am familiar with what to look for, and having CLL, I am mainly concerned with my WBC. 

Another thing that I would like to say is that I treat my blood cancer, my CLL, like a common cold. You might think, “Why, what's wrong with this man?” I know what is going on in my body, and there is nothing that I can do about it, so I stay positive about this cancer thing. We have to eat well. I cannot tell you how important this is. Stay positive. Turn that negative into a positive, and please don't feel sorry for yourself. Get a cat, go to church. I don't care which God you want to believe in, just pick one. Keep your life balanced. Exercise, get off the sofa! Stay happy and safe! 

Jorge

chronic lymphoblastic leukemia (CLL)

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Everyone affected by blood cancer—patients, survivors, caregivers, researchers, advocates, fundraisers, everyone—has a story. Share yours.
James, volunteer and survivor, pictured with group of friends

James

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Todd

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double-hit lymphoma (DHL)

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Hodgkin lymphoma (HL)

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.

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Gabriele

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

A group of children and an adult stand together inside a large, illuminated droplet‑shaped display surrounded by handwritten messages of support. A sign below reads “Blood Cancer United,” with a QR code lit underneath. The colorful, hopeful scene reflects community solidarity and awareness for blood cancer.

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Hodgkin lymphoma (HL)

A person sits in a treatment chair wearing a black shirt that reads “DONE” with a purple heart ribbon, holding a small dog pillow while connected to medical equipment. The clinical setting and triumphant message on the shirt create a powerful moment that can accompany stories related to blood cancer, resilience, and completing treatment milestones.

Jessica

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL)

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Luke

leukemia

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