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Richard is
Blood Cancer United

Richard in a chair outside with a Corona smiling in a blue hooded jacket

People tend to think that cancer will never affect them. I know, because I was once one of those people. Growing up, I never knew of anyone that had cancer. Then, in 2005, my father-in-law contracted a brain tumor; the worst type. I remember feeling a sort of, panicky feeling in the beginning as we were told he had three to six months to live. However, since day one, he had the best outlook on life and he lived until 2008. He is just one of my heroes.

In May of 2016, my own father became very ill with odd symptoms consisting of severe arm and leg pain, fevers, and internal bleeding. Finally, two months later, a doctor decided to do a bone marrow biopsy where he discovered cancer cells. My father was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). I was at my mom’s house and my husband came over to tell me the news. In the fastest manner possible, I got up without shoes on and ran out the front door until I collapsed.

My father eventually lost his battle with AML. He is at peace now. Before he passed away, I promised him that I would make changes in my life as well as continuing to fight against cancer in his honor.

I began raising funds for LLS because I want a cure found so nobody else has to endure this. I want to help save lives. How do you cure cancer, you donate.

Kelly

In memory

We are Blood Cancer United.

Everyone affected by blood cancer—patients, survivors, caregivers, researchers, advocates, fundraisers, everyone—has a story. Share yours.
Snapshot of Tracy wearing a hat and glasses in front of a waterfall, a cancer survivor

Tracy

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Gabriele Papa, AML

Gabriele

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Gerardo (Jerry), chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patient

Gerardo (Jerry)

myelofibrosis (MF), chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) - In memory

Two individuals stand outdoors on a grassy area near trees and a building, posing side by side. One individual wears a white textured dress and carries a green shoulder bag, while the other wears a light-colored outfit with a white coat and holds a bouquet of pink flowers tied with a ribbon. Natural greenery and a walkway are visible in the background, suggesting a celebratory or milestone moment.

Liz

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Individual wearing a navy quarter-zip with a visible ID badge stands beside a bookshelf in a bright indoor school library or community space, with glass doors and a red “EXIT” sign in the background, conveying a calm, supportive environment for learning and connection related to blood cancer awareness and community care.

Michael

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Here is descriptive, SEO‑driven alt text that includes **blood cancer**, stays objective, and avoids assumptions:  **Alt text:**   Two people posing for a close-up outdoor selfie at night near a brightly lit holiday tree in an urban plaza, with illuminated buildings in the background; image commonly shared in personal storytelling connected to blood cancer awareness, caregiver support, and survivorship advocacy.

Lia

Family member and caregiver

Here’s an SEO‑friendly, descriptive alt text option that includes **blood cancer** while accurately reflecting the image you uploaded:  **Alt text:**   A person stands in a bright indoor hallway wearing a light checkered shirt, posing for a professional portrait used in materials that raise awareness about blood cancer.

Tony

leukemia

A young child in animal‑print pajamas holds a knitted lion toy while standing indoors near a door. The warm, gentle moment could be used in materials supporting families affected by blood cancer, highlighting the innocence and resilience of childhood.

Sophia

Supporter

Headshot of Bill, a cancer survivor

Bill

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Graham, blood cancer advocate, on Tour de France route ahead of  UK charity Cure Leukaemia event

Graham

Advocate

Black and white portrait of Heather, AML survivor

Heather

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Acute myeloid leukemia survivor wearing a blue buttoned shirt in front of a beautiful landscape

Zac

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

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