In April 2010, Jackie was diagnosed with CLL. She had been walking up same hill for 30 years but suddenly couldn’t get up it without stopping – that’s when she decided to go and see her GP and got the news she had leukaemia.

It was awful shock for her at the time but she didn’t panic because she felt well and knew she would get through this thing. Chemo was the next step, which went well, and kept it at bay for another five years before making the move to a daily oral treatment which has been working for her the last three years.

Jackie can do pretty much everything now, including travels throughout Tassie in her motorhome, and won’t let CLL spoil her life. Her advice for others – “The best way to cope is to own the disease – manage it yourself and stay as fit as you can”. Jackie is looking forward to living her normal life, just the way she planned before leukaemia.

The Leukaemia Foundation is there to support people, like Wayne, 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.