Blood Cancer Awareness Month

Every September, people worldwide unite to observe Blood Cancer Awareness Month. This annual initiative shines a light on blood cancers –  a group of cancers that affect the production and function of blood cells. For those unfamiliar, these cancers include leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes, and myeloproliferative neoplasms.

Despite the latest advancements in treatment, blood cancers still impact millions of lives. Blood cancer accounts for about 10% of all cancer diagnoses in the United States each year, and it is estimated that over 1.6 million people are living with or in remission from blood cancer. 

This September, the HealthTree Foundation is participating in blood cancer awareness efforts by:

• Sharing inspiring patient stories: Follow us on social media as we highlight the strength and resilience of individuals living with blood cancer. If you plan on sharing your story during Blood Cancer Awareness Month, use the hashtag "#SupportBloodCancerResearch" so that we can share and amplify awareness throughout September!

• Empowering patients with knowledge: Check out our news articles on the latest blood cancer treatment breakthroughs and research.

            Read the latest news on Blood Cancer

• Connecting patients and experts: Create a free account to watch our webinar featuring leading hematologists discussing innovations in blood cancer and sharing vital information about myeloma, leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloproliferative neoplasms.

Featured Patient Stories

Janet Schurmann was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2017 and was treated with a stem cell transplant. Several years later, she was diagnosed with another blood cancer: acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). At the same time, Janet’s husband received a myeloma diagnosis, so Janet found herself facing an ALL diagnosis and being a caregiver. Janet received immunotherapy for ALL and is doing well. She shares her experience and supports other people living with cancer as a HealthTree Coach. 

When Andre'a Ellingen was diagnosed with myeloma, she was told to be positive. For her, the thing that enables her positivity is having access to the information and education she needs to make informed decisions about her care. As a HealthTree Coach, she shares what she knows and empowers others to get the care they deserve.

A trip to the dentist for answers about why Susana Vivares was losing bone in her teeth led to a myeloma diagnosis. Together with her doctor, Susana decided that she had to educate herself enough to lead the decision-making about her own treatment. Resources she found at HealthTree helped put her in the driver's seat. Now, Susana is a coach, helping other people with myeloma take control of their care.

Rich Armstrong learned he had multiple myeloma in 2021 when he was hospitalized with acute kidney failure. A stem cell transplant in 2022 put Rich's myeloma into remission. Today, he says he is living his "best days ever" and wants to help other people get the same outcomes. 

In 2015, Jeff Adamson was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. In 2019, he lost his wife to breast cancer. This left him feeling lost and not knowing what to look for, but after visiting a HealthTree roundtable in Buffalo, NY, Jeff learned about the Coach program: “I thought, OK, here’s my why. This is what I want to do with the rest of my life."

Coaching isn’t just beneficial for those seeking guidance; it’s also a transformative experience for Coaches. By sharing knowledge and support, Coaches grow alongside their Coachees, fostering a powerful partnership.

Learn More about HealthTree Coach Program

The Numbers Behind the Cause

The impact of blood cancers is significant. In 2024, leukemia alone is projected to affect over 60,000 new individuals in the US. Lymphoma, the most prevalent type of blood cancer, is estimated to have nearly 90,000 new cases in the US this year. Myeloma, another common blood cancer, is anticipated to affect almost 36,000 new individuals.

These numbers, provided by the National Cancer Institute, underscore the urgent need for continued research, support, and awareness.

Learn more with our Blood Cancer Awareness article series: 

• Recognizing the Signs and Taking Action: Understanding the common symptoms of blood cancer is crucial for early detection and treatment. Learn more about the signs and how to take action.
• Revolutionizing Blood Cancer Care: HealthTree Foundation's Commitment to Innovation: Read more about how HealthTree Foundation empowers patients and accelerates cures for blood cancers through innovative, patient-driven research and a supportive community.
• The Future of Blood Cancer: Advances in Detection, Treatment, and Research: Explore the promising advancements in blood cancer detection, treatment, and research, shaping a brighter future for patients.

HealthTree Foundation: Innovation that Saves Lives

HealthTree Foundation is dedicated to empowering the blood cancer community through reliable information, resources, and a supportive network. We believe that knowledge is power, and we strive to equip patients and their loved ones with the tools they need to navigate their journey with confidence.