Talking Blood Cancer: Finding Strength
Nerys’s Journey Through Leukemia Loss & Community Support
In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Kate Arkadieff is joined by Nerys Welch, who shares her deeply personal experience as the caregiver and widow of her husband, Richard, who faced T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.
Kate sets the tone by acknowledging the sensitive nature of grief and loss, encouraging listeners to approach the episode with compassion towards themselves and to step away if the content becomes too overwhelming. This precaution sets a respectful and understanding atmosphere right from the beginning.
During the conversation, Nerys recounts the tumultuous journey from Richard’s diagnosis through his bone marrow transplant to ultimately managing life and parenting solo after his passing. She describes the emotional weight of caregiving, the challenges of watching a loved one suffer, and dealing with the resultant grief that continues to play a role in her daily life. Nerys’ story provides invaluable insights into the struggles faced by families dealing with blood cancer from a caregiver’s perspective, highlighting issues such as adjusting to a new normal, the impacts on children, and the importance of seeking support.
Furthermore, Nerys touches on the significance of community and shared experiences, emphasising how connecting with others through online support groups helped her navigate her grief. This episode not only shares one woman’s story but also offers comfort and understanding to others who are living through similar hardships.
Connect with Nerys:
- Website | My Grief Tribe
- Email | [email protected]
- Facebook | My Grief Tribe Facebook
The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network – the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialization. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.
Some related information that may be of interest:
- See how the Leukaemia Foundation Online Blood Cancer Support Service can help you
- Find out more about Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML)
- Find out more about Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL)
- Read more about Nerys’s journey
- See how the Leukaemia Foundation can support you
Last updated on May 24th, 2024
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.