I’ll never forget the moment my doctor told me I had cancer. The word "leukemia" hit me like a ton of bricks, and I felt like the ground had been pulled out from under me. My first thoughts were a mix of confusion, fear, and disbelief. How could this be happening to me? I’m young (25 years) I’m healthy—aren’t I? But as the reality of the situation set in, I realized that this wasn’t just a bad dream. This was my new reality.
The days following my diagnosis were some of the toughest I’ve ever faced. I had to quickly come to terms with what CML is a type of blood cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood cells. I learned that while it’s a serious condition, it’s also one that can be managed with the right treatment. That knowledge gave me a glimmer of hope, but it didn’t make the initial shock any less overwhelming.
I found myself on an emotional rollercoaster, swinging between feeling hopeful and feeling scared. It’s strange how something as simple as a blood test can turn your entire world upside down. But in those early days, I also realized that I needed to start thinking about how to move forward, how to live with this diagnosis rather than be defined by it.
Soon after my diagnosis, I began treatment with Dasatinib, a drug designed to target the cancer cells in my body. While I was relieved to have a treatment plan, I quickly learned that the medication comes with its own set of challenges. The side effects, including fatigue, nausea, and muscle pain, have been tough to manage. Some days are harder than others, and I’m still figuring out how to balance the demands of treatment with my daily life.
But despite the difficulties, I’m determined to keep moving forward. I know that this journey won’t be easy, but I’m learning to take things one day at a time and to focus on the things I can control.
I’m learning to lean on others and to ask for help when I need it. I’ve also found comfort in online communities and support groups, where I can connect with others who understand what I’m going through.
I’m still new to all of this, and I know there’s a lot I have yet to learn. But I’m hopeful that by sharing my story, I can not only help myself process what’s happening but also connect with others who might be facing similar challenges.
If you’ve made it this far, thank you for taking the time to read my story. I’m excited (and a little nervous) to share this journey with you. Whether you’re a fellow patient, a caregiver, or someone looking for insight into living with CML, I hope that my blog can offer you some comfort, support, or simply a reminder that you’re not alone.
Here’s to taking the first steps together.
Warm regards,
Temi
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