Hi Everyone,
New here. I was diagnosed 2 weeks ago with CLL Leukemia. I have my first appointment tomorrow. I have also possibly skin cancer .... biopsies taking 6 weeks for results. I also have Bronchectasis (diagnosed before Christmas).
I am really struggling. Have cried everyday for 2 weeks. Hubby & family very supportive. Already seeing a counsellor. Self employed and not been back to work since diagnosis. Am I ever going to be able to deal with this? :(
Can anyone give me an idea of what to expect at my first appointment?
Thank you so much in advance.
S
Hi Pinkcarnation and a very warm welcome to the Community but sorry to hear about your CLL diagnoses.
Navigating the cancer journey can be such a stressful and challenging time but getting support from people who have walked the ‘exact same' cancer journey can help a lot.
I was diagnosed way back in 1999 when I was 44 with my type of slow growing Non Hodgkins Lymphoma…… CLL is also seen as a slow growing blood cancer that is handled in a similar way as my type of Lymphoma. Over my 24 years I have had treatment on and off but I turned 68 last Nov and am still living a great life.
During the first 12 years of my diagnosis I continued to work in a very demanding teaching job….. and it was still a few years after I retired at 55 before I required some full on treatments.worked
The New to Community is like our reception desk where we look to direct you to the best part of the Community for you to get support. The Community is divided into dedicated Cancer Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) so can I recommend you join and post in our dedicated CLL support group. This is a safe place to talk to others with a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
To connect in with the group click on this link
…… then once the group page opens click on “Click to Join” when the black banner appears or “Join” under “Group Tools” (this all depends on the device you are using)
When you are ready you can introduce yourself by clicking “+new” or “+” in the top right next to the group title. You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post.
I will keep an eye open for you in the CLL group and I can give you further support ((hugs))
It’s not surprising how you feel but Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is very treatable.
I am assuming that you are going to see a Haematologist - the two links below will help you get ready for that appointment….
(These are taken from the Lymphoma Action website…… CLL in Heamatology terms is seen in the same light as slow growing Non Hodgkins Lymphomas - yes very confusing)
Top tips for getting the best from your appointments
Questions to ask your medical team about Lymphoma
((hugs))
Thank you Mike. 
