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Kemal is
Blood Cancer United

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On July 4, 2014, I noticed a large lump on the side of my neck. When it didn't go away after a couple of weeks, I went to see my doctor at the University of Illinois at Chicago and had a biopsy done. It was non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

After admitting myself into the hospital for a week of chemo, I was allowed to go home and rest for three weeks only to go back and check in again for another week. We did that six times for a total of 700 hours of chemo. Thanks to a great staff at UIC with the help of Dr David Peace, I am cancer free today, one year later. You can beat it too!

Kemal

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma survivor

We are Blood Cancer United.

Everyone affected by blood cancer—patients, survivors, caregivers, researchers, advocates, fundraisers, everyone—has a story. Share yours.
Copilot said: Close-up selfie of an older adult wearing glasses and a navy shirt with an “I Voted” sticker, seated in a car, highlighting everyday resilience and community engagement within the blood cancer community and survivorship journey.

Fred

non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)

Heriberto, Burkitt lymphoma (BL) patient, with wife on his wedding day

Heriberto

Burkitt lymphoma (BL)

Steven, a young white male with dark hair and light mustache and beard wearing sunglasses and life vest over white and black shirt standing on a boat

Steven

non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL)

A person stands on a quiet, snow‑covered woodland path, wearing a dark zip‑up jacket lightly dusted with snowflakes. Bare winter trees surround the trail, creating a still, muted landscape. The cold air and gently falling snow evoke a sense of resilience and reflection—an atmosphere that mirrors the strength often required in a journey with blood cancer.

Tim

non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL)

A portrait-style image shows an individual with shoulder-length, light-brown hair, wearing a purple textured top against a neutral gray background. The calm, studio-like setting conveys a sense of steadiness and dignity, offering a quiet contrast to the difficult realities of a blood cancer journey. The overall composition evokes strength through simplicity, highlighting a moment of poised stillness amid uncertainty.

Debra

Family member, volunteer, supporter/donor

inspirational-stories-blood-cancer-daniel.jpeg

Daniel

Family member and supporter

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Dana

non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL)

Jae. Lymphoma survivor, making music with microphone and headphones

Jae

non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL)

Rhonda inside with a red and white shirt smiling

Rhonda

non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

A family stands together on a grassy field at a Light The Night event, holding signs that read “Survivor,” “Strong,” and “Hope.” Tents and banners for the gathering are visible in the background. The uplifting scene reflects unity and support for the blood cancer community.

Chris

non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL)

A blood cancer patient stands with friends at an outdoor Blood Cancer United event, wearing colorful leis and holding heart-shaped signs while posing together in front of a branded backdrop, creating a celebratory and supportive atmosphere.

Carlos

non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL)

A blood cancer patient wearing a dark top is shown in a close-up portrait indoors, representing a personal journey and strength while living with blood cancer.

Nancy

stage 3B follicular non-Hodgkin lymphoma (FL)

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