No two chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) diagnoses are the same. Whether you are recently diagnosed or have a history of chronic lymphocytic leukemia, we want to focus on things we can do NOW to get you feeling better!
The initial diagnosis can be overwhelming and getting your questions answered by your care team is critical. It’s also important to get organized and take advantage of your appointment times. Write your questions down ahead of time and take notes during the appointment. Ask for copies of your lab test results. While the doctor’s office can sometimes be an intimidating place, never be embarrassed to ask your doctor to slow down or to explain things in another way.
Support comes from others as well. Talking with others about your diagnosis can be crucial to managing it. In addition to talking to loved ones, you can talk to someone who has already been through a similar situation. This is called peer-to-peer support. Discussing experiences with a peer support volunteer can help you learn how they managed the same disease you're trying to cope with each day.
One of the best ways to manage and track your diagnosis is to keep regular health examinations and tests. This is how you and your care team can identify problems before they start and address any symptoms you may be having.
Be sure to talk with your primary doctor, oncologist, and pharmacist about all of the medications you are taking. Taking your medications as prescribed and following your treatment plan gives you the best opportunity to manage any conditions and maintain the best possible health for yourself.
You can use your Day Tracker to write down anything and everything! The Pack Health Day Tracker is a small booklet that comes in your pack that helps you track your symptoms. Fatigue and pain levels, any symptoms you might be experiencing, food and water intake, and stress levels are all important to note in your Day Tracker. Good food choices are helpful for managing your symptoms and strength.
Pack Health is dedicated to helping you with everything from budgeting and logistics to healthy eating, exercise, and emotional support. Anything you’re shielding your friends and family from, but kind of need to talk about, your Health Advisor is here to listen and help.
As you may have seen in previous articles, this service is being offered free for patients referred by The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). Grant funding has made it possible to cover 3 months of membership, and no credit card information is required. It’s free support on your schedule.
If you have CLL and think this would be of use to you, click here for more information and to become a member of Pack Health today.