How Blood Cancer Patients Are Finding Purpose, Growth, and Meaning After Diagnosis

A recent survey conducted by HealthTree Foundation explores how individuals living with blood cancer are navigating life emotionally, spiritually, and socially following their diagnosis. The results paint an encouraging picture of post-traumatic growth, resilience, and the deep meaning many patients find during their cancer journey.

The study surveyed 251 blood cancer patients and asked questions related to life satisfaction, emotional well-being, relationships, purpose, and faith. Despite the adversity that comes with a cancer diagnosis, many respondents reported profound personal transformation and growth.

A Path Through Adversity: Signs of Post-Traumatic Growth

One of the most uplifting findings of the survey was that many patients are experiencing growth as a result of their cancer experience.

• Changed Priorities: 75% of respondents said their values shifted moderately or more as a result of their diagnosis
• Appreciation for the Value of Life: 80% gained a moderate or deeper appreciation for life’s value
• Increased Resilience: 68% now feel moderately or more confident handling difficulties
• Personal Strength and Connection: Many discovered they were stronger than they thought and gained a greater sense of closeness with others

“I learned a great deal about how wonderful people are,” one respondent reflected—an insight shared by 84% of participants.

What Flourishing Looks Like Today

The survey invited participants to rate how they feel today in several aspects of daily living. 

Life Satisfaction and Happiness

Despite the physical and emotional challenges of living with blood cancer, patients have:

• 7.10 out of 10 average life satisfaction
• 7.1 out of 10 happiness rating

Many respondents reported feeling generally satisfied with life, with 50% scoring themselves 8 or higher.

Mental and Physical Health

Patients rated their physical health at an average of 6.5 out of 10, and, encouragingly, rated their mental health higher at an average of 7.3 out of 10. These scores suggest many patients are managing their condition with a relatively strong sense of overall well-being.

Meaning and Purpose

The survey also found high levels of personal meaning and purpose:

• 86% of people feel the things they do in life are worthwhile
• 7.2 out of 10 average understanding of their life's purpose  

Faith and Spirituality: Meaning Beyond Medicine

The survey revealed a wide range of spiritual and religious experiences and beliefs.

• 85% believe in God or a higher power
• 37% believe God is active in their lives
• 26% believe in a higher power or divine being
• 66% attend religious services
• 64% engage in personal spiritual practices monthly or more

Many respondents described a strong, supportive relationship with God, while others expressed uncertainty or non-belief. Regardless of belief system, spirituality appeared to be a meaningful dimension in coping with illness for a large number of participants.

Why This Research Matters

This survey serves as a powerful reminder that a cancer diagnosis touches every aspect of a person’s life, not just the physical.

Because of adversity and not despite it, patients are finding ways to grow, reflect, and live with greater purpose. These stories of flourishing underscore the importance of holistic care—care that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit.

“We need to understand not just how patients survive—but how they thrive.” shared HealthTree's research team.

Add Your Voice

Both patients and researchers would like to know more about your life experience dealing with a blood cancer diagnosis. It should not take more than 10 minutes to complete. To contribute to this survey, click the button below. 

Participate in the Flourishing Survey