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Julie’s story: living well with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)

It was a shock when Julie was diagnosed with CLL 17 years ago. She didn’t need treatment at the time and was on ‘wait and see’ for 11 years until she needed her first round of chemo and two years after that, a follow up round.

Just three years ago Julie developed a mass that needed a very strong round of chemo – that helped for a while until she was facing the prospect of a bone marrow transplant. Instead she went with an oral therapy that was on offer and has so far avoided a transplant.

Julie enjoy holidays, walking and her pooch! With her bloods holding their own, she is also able to do volunteer work for the Leukaemia Foundation. Family, friends and staying positive is what helps her get through. In Julie’s words “Think positive, don’t give up, life is too precious!”

The Leukaemia Foundation is there to support people, like Julie, with blood cancer and help them navigate that journey.

Remember, discussing treatment options for CLL with your haematologist is important to ensure you are on a treatment plan that works best for you. If you’re starting a new treatment plan it’s important to find a way that works for you to build a habit and stay compliant with treatment protocols – a diary, checklist, time of day – all help to keep you on track.

Connect with our support team

Fill in your details below and one of our Blood Cancer Support Coordinators will contact you within the next five (5) business days to discuss the services and support available to you. If you have an urgent request, please contact us on 1800 620 420 or submit a referral form here.


Last updated on January 25th, 2023

Developed by the Leukaemia Foundation in consultation with people living with a blood cancer, Leukaemia Foundation support staff, haematology nursing staff and/or Australian clinical haematologists. This content is provided for information purposes only and we urge you to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis, treatment and answers to your medical questions, including the suitability of a particular therapy, service, product or treatment in your circumstances. The Leukaemia Foundation shall not bear any liability for any person relying on the materials contained on this website.