Talking Blood Cancer: Motherhood and Resilience

Motherhood and Resilience: Tahli Batkilin’s Triumph Over Blood Cancer

In this episode of Talking Blood Cancer, host Kate Arkadieff welcomes Tahli Batkilin, who bravely shares her personal battle and subsequent victory over blood cancer.

Tahli takes us through the moment she first received her lymphoma diagnosis amidst the chaos of lockdown and running her home baking business. The confusion of initial misdiagnoses escalating to the eventual life-changing news is recounted with raw honesty. Tahli’s determination and resilience shine through as she explains how she continued to push for answers when treatments didn’t seem to be working, embodying the critical message of being your own health advocate.

Tahli speaks to the heart-wrenching challenges she faced, not just in dealing with her illness but also in adapting her role as a mother during this turbulent time. From the intimacy of family dinners disrupted by grave news to the everyday act of walking her children to school, the juxtaposition of normalcy and the fight for life is poignant.

Tahli also discusses the physical and emotional impact of traditional chemotherapy, the process and her experience with innovative CAR T cell therapy, and the significance of minimal side effects in comparison to her previous treatments. Her remission is celebrated, and the conversation shifts to the transformative perspective on life that arises from enduring such a profound personal journey.

The discussion concludes with a reflection on the unpredictable nature of life and an emphasis on recognizing the value in every moment. Tahli’s story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit, the importance of supportive care, and the advances in blood cancer treatment.

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 commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network.