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Barrie is
Blood Cancer United

Snapshot of Barrie with his wife and their dog, a cancer survivor

My story start’s the week after Christmas, I went to my family physician for my yearly physical and blood work. All came back good. I also schedule my first colonoscopy. All was good again except I been getting out of breath doing minor activities and short walks. My family physician suggested that maybe I try more exercise and walking during my breaks.

After a snowy night in February 2016, as I was brushing the snow off the driver’s side window I felt a heaviness in my chest like I just got the wind knocked out of me. My arms became very heavy and I went inside totally out of breath. After going inside and complaining, I drove to work and after walking into the office I was winded again. My collages suggested I call 911 or at least go to the ER. I kept telling myself that I just need to lose a little weight and walk a little more often. But after a quick Google search, all signs lead to heart attack. I drove myself to the ER.

After some tests, three hours later the doctor returned to tell us it was not a stroke but in fact I had leukemia. They would be transferring me downtown to Cincinnati Good Samaritan Hospital. I spent the next 41 days getting heavy chemo inductions.

I am ecstatic to say that Sept 9 I had my one year remission (new birthday). My beautiful wife, Lisa and I are enjoying life one day at a time. I thank God every morning and night for allowing me another day and pray that he grants me another one. 

BARRIE

Leukemia Survivor

We are Blood Cancer United.

Everyone affected by blood cancer—patients, survivors, caregivers, researchers, advocates, fundraisers, everyone—has a story. Share yours.
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Imani

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Jay

Volunteer

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Emmanuel "Manny"

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Snapshot of Blaine Davis in hospital room, a cancer survivor

Blaine

Leukemia Survivor

Grace

Lymphoma Survivor

Please click here for the program flyer.

Patty

AML Caregiver

Graduation headshot of Ashen, a cancer survivor

Ashen

Leukemia survivor

LLS Researchers

LLS Global Research

Snapshot of William with his wife standing a park, a cancer survivor

William

Survivor

Leigh, in front of windows in a very tall building, city below, with her Big Climb medal and t-shirt

Leigh

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)

Photo of three cyclist holding a LLS Scenic Shore 150 sign for Team C.U.R.E fundraising team

Martin

Volunteer

We are Blood Cancer United.

Everyone affected by blood cancer—patients, survivors, caregivers, researchers, advocates, fundraisers, everyone—has a story. Share yours.
Headshot of Imani in her white nursing coat

Imani

myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)

Fast Company Brands That Matter 2022 Logo

Chase

Leukemia Survivor

Jay, volunteer, and friend in candid photo

Jay

Volunteer

Manny smiling wide at 10ish years old in a white shirt

Emmanuel "Manny"

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

Snapshot of Blaine Davis in hospital room, a cancer survivor

Blaine

Leukemia Survivor

Grace

Lymphoma Survivor

Please click here for the program flyer.

Patty

AML Caregiver

Graduation headshot of Ashen, a cancer survivor

Ashen

Leukemia survivor

LLS Researchers

LLS Global Research

Snapshot of William with his wife standing a park, a cancer survivor

William

Survivor

Leigh, in front of windows in a very tall building, city below, with her Big Climb medal and t-shirt

Leigh

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)

Photo of three cyclist holding a LLS Scenic Shore 150 sign for Team C.U.R.E fundraising team

Martin

Volunteer

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