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Rocco is
Blood Cancer United

Our little Roc was diagnosed with leukemia on June 30. We immediately started treatment at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital on July 1 where Rocco was given a port, bone marrow biopsy, and his first intrathecal chemo treatment. After a 7-day hospital stay, we were able to come home and continue weekly treatments. Unfortunately, on August 2 we received news that Rocco’s body was not responding to treatment the way we all hoped he would.

Our team thought it was best for him to start the second round of chemotherapy as soon as possible. So, on August 4 we started our second round of chemo and are praying this works. This round is 56 days, and our prayer is that Rocco’s body responds well so we do not have to go on to more intensive treatments. We do have next steps in the works in the event that they’re needed.

As a family, we are staying strong and positive! Our house is filled with love and smiles, and we are incredibly blessed to have such supportive family, friends, and community surrounding us. For those of you who know me, know that I would not ask for anything if it wasn’t absolutely necessary. With that being said, we need all the prayers and positivity that you can give. Rocco is such a strong little boy, and we will fight and win this battle together.

Rocco

Leukemia Survivor

We are Blood Cancer United.

Everyone affected by blood cancer—patients, survivors, caregivers, researchers, advocates, fundraisers, everyone—has a story. Share yours.
Headshot of Michele a Leukemia Survivor smiling, wearing a white sweater.

Michele

Leukemia Survivor

Smiling man with hooded jacket

Kamal

Leukemia Survivor

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Lynette

Volunteer

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Deanna

ALL Survivor

Headshot of Todd wearing suit and tie, a cancer survivor

Todd

Volunteer

A shirtless runner wearing black shorts and a race bib strides forward on a city street during a race event. Other runners and bright murals appear in the background, creating an energetic atmosphere. The image could accompany a story or campaign supporting blood cancer awareness, highlighting strength, resilience, and community involvement.

Luke

leukemia

Audience members gather in a small performance venue as a speaker shares a personal story on stage under purple lighting. The event highlights the power of storytelling, blood cancer awareness, survivorship, and community connection for people affected by blood cancer. People seated in an intimate theater setting watch a performer speak on stage beneath purple and blue lights. The image represents blood cancer storytelling, advocacy, and the sharing of lived experiences that help others feel seen and supported. A storyteller performs before a live audience in a cozy venue illuminated with purple stage lighting. The event showcases personal stories about blood cancer, resilience, and the healing impact of community and shared experiences.

Adam

leukemia

Headshot of Imani in her white nursing coat

Imani

myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)

Family of four posing together by a waterfront during a holiday celebration, with festive clothing and seasonal accessories. The image reflects the strength of families affected by blood cancer, highlighting the support, love, and togetherness that help patients and caregivers navigate blood cancer treatment, survivorship, and everyday milestones.

Jennifer

Mother and caregiver

Jarvis, Pre B acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patient

Jarvis

Pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)

Savanna and Asher, pediatric blood cancer patient, holding a sign "Asher is a perfect match"

Savanna

pre-B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (pre-B-ALL)

Headshot of Isabelle - a young woman with blond hair and blue eyes

Isabelle

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)

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